Personal Immigration

Work Visa UK

Apply for UK Work Visa

What is a UK Work Visa?

Securing the right work visa to work in the UK can be a complex process, but at MGBe Legal, we make it simple and stress-free. Whether you're applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa, or exploring post-study work opportunities through a Graduate Visa, our experienced lawyers provide tailored advice and expert support to ensure your application meets Home Office requirements. We handle everything from eligibility assessments to document preparation, giving you confidence at every step.

Our personalised approach sets us apart, offering bespoke solutions based on your unique circumstances. With up-to-date knowledge of UK immigration laws, we ensure your application is precise and compliant. If your application faces challenges, we’re also here to guide you through appeals or resubmissions. Contact us today to secure your future in the UK with expert legal advice and representation.

Types of UK Work Visas

The UK offers several types of work visas under its Points-Based Immigration System, tailored to different employment needs and circumstances. Here are the main categories:

Skilled worker visa

For individuals with a confirmed job offer in the UK from a Home Office-approved sponsor. The role must meet specific skill and salary thresholds.

Health and Care worker visa

Designed for qualified healthcare professionals to work in the NHS, adult social care, or NHS suppliers. This visa offers reduced fees and fast-track processing.

Scale-up worker visa

For individuals with a job offer from a recognised UK scale-up business, enabling them to work and switch jobs more flexibly.

Graduate visa

Allows international students graduating from UK universities to stay and work for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates).

High potential individual (HPI) visa

For graduates from top global universities, allowing them to work in the UK without needing a job offer.

Innovator founder visa

For entrepreneurs starting an innovative business in the UK, requiring endorsement by an approved body.

Youth mobility scheme visa

For young people from specific countries, enabling them to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.

UK ancestry visa

For Commonwealth citizens with a UK born grandparent, allowing them to work in the UK.

Global business mobility visas

These visas cover various business needs, including:
  • Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: For employees transferring to a UK branch of their organisation.
  • Graduate Trainee Visa: For employees on graduate training programmes requiring UK placements.
  • Secondment Worker Visa: For overseas workers seconded to the UK as part of high-value contracts.
  • Service Supplier Visa: For overseas service providers fulfilling contracts in the UK.
  • UK Expansion Worker Visa: For employees of overseas companies setting up a UK branch.

Temporary work visas

For short-term roles, including:
  • Charity Worker Visa: For voluntary work with a registered charity.
  • Creative Worker Visa: For individuals in creative industries such as acting or music.
  • Seasonal Worker Visa: For temporary work in sectors like agriculture.

Requirements for Work Visa

Here are the key requirements for a Work Visa in the UK

Job offer

Applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.

Eligible role

The job must be on the list of eligible occupations and meet specific skill and salary thresholds.

English language

Applicants must prove their proficiency in English through an approved test or a qualification taught in English.

Certificate of sponsorship (COS)

A unique reference number issued by the sponsoring employer is required.

Identity and supporting documents

Proof of identity, qualifications, and relevant documents must be submitted.

Financial requirements

Applicants need to show they have sufficient savings to support themselves upon arrival in the UK, unless the employer certifies that they can cover initial costs if required.

Application fee and healthcare surcharge

Payment of the application fee and an annual healthcare surcharge is mandatory.

Validity

The visa can last up to 5 years, with the possibility
of extension.

Salary

Typically, the salary must be at least 38,700 per year, or the "going rate" for the job if higher.

Dependants

Partners and children can apply as dependants if they meet the criteria.

Process of Work Visa

To apply for a process of Work Visa to the UK, follow these steps:
1Choose the right visa type
Identify the appropriate visa category based on your job and circumstances (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa). Each type has specific criteria.
2Meet eligibility criteria
  • A confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
  • The role must meet skill and salary thresholds (e.g., £38,700 annually for Skilled Worker Visa).
  • Proof of English proficiency through an approved test or qualification.
3Prepare documents
Gather necessary documents like your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), proof of identity, qualifications, and financial evidence to support your application.
4Submit your application
Apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration website, pay the required fees (including healthcare surcharge), and provide biometric information.
5Await a decision
Most applications are processed within 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK. Upon approval, you'll receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport to enter the UK, or an eVisa.
6Post-approval actions

Enter the UK and start working. If your application is refused, you may appeal, apply for an Administrative Review or reapply depending on the circumstances and the chosen route.

Processing timeline

The processing time for a UK work visa varies based on the specific visa category and whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK. For applications submitted from outside the UK, standard processing times are typically around 3 weeks for most work visas, including the Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker visas. For applications made from within the UK, processing times can range from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the visa type. Factors such as application complexity, the need for additional documentation, and current demand can influence these timelines. It is advisable to consult the official UK government website for the most current information on timescale and to apply well in advance of your intended start date.

UK Work Visa

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    FAQs

    1What is the Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) and why is it needed?
    The COS is a unique reference number issued by your approved UK sponsoring employer after you accept the job offer. It confirms to the Home Office that the job meets the necessary skill and salary requirements.
    2What are the benefits of the Health and Care Worker visa route?
    This visa is designed for qualified healthcare professionals working in the NHS or social care sector. It offers fast-track processing times and reduced application fees compared to the standard Skilled Worker Visa.
    3What is the purpose of the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa?
    The HPI visa allows recent graduates from top global universities to work in the UK without needing a job offer from a sponsor. It provides flexibility for highly skilled individuals to seek opportunities.
    4What documentation is issued to applicants after a successful visa approval?
    Upon approval, you receive a visa vignette in your passport to enter the UK, or an eVisa. For most routes, your immigration status will be confirmed electronically rather than a physical vignette.
    5What is the English language requirement for 2026?
    Starting January 8, 2026, first-time applicants must meet CEFR Level B2 (A-level equivalent), an increase from the previous B1 level.
    6Can Care Workers bring their families?
    No. Under the current rules, Care Workers and Senior Care Workers are prohibited from bringing dependents to the UK.
    7What types of UK work visas are available?
    Options include Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Graduate, Scale-up and various temporary work visas.
    8What is the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker Visa?
    As of July 2025, the general salary threshold has increased to £41,700 (up from £38,700). You must meet this threshold or the specific "going rate" for your occupation, whichever is higher.
    9How long does it take to process a UK work visa?
    Standard applications take about three weeks from outside the UK; complex cases may require longer.
    10Can dependants join me on a UK work visa?
    Eligible family members can usually accompany skilled workers, provided financial and relationship requirements are met.
    11What documents are needed for a UK work visa?
    You need a job offer, certificate of sponsorship, proof of English, supporting documents, and financial evidence.
    12What happens if my work visa is refused?
    You may appeal, request an Administrative Review, or reapply, depending on the reason for refusal.