The UK Skilled Worker visa is a popular route for non-UK residents seeking employment in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re a tech professional, healthcare worker, engineer, or in another high-demand field, proving your qualifications is a key step in the application process. But what exactly does the UK Home Office expect—and how can you present your credentials clearly and confidently?
Let’s break it down.
1. Understand the Eligibility Criteria
Before you start gathering documents, make sure you meet the basic requirements of the Skilled Worker visa. These typically include:
A confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office (a licensed sponsor).
A job that’s on the list of eligible occupations.
Meeting the required salary threshold.
Proving your knowledge of English.
Relevant academic or professional qualifications (where applicable).
2. Prove Your Academic Qualifications
If your role requires a specific degree or educational background, you’ll need to show:
Your original degree certificate or diploma, clearly stating your name, the institution’s name, and the date of award.
If your qualification was obtained outside the UK, you may need to submit a UK ENIC (formerly NARIC) statement of comparability to show that your degree is equivalent to a UK qualification.
You can apply for this document through the UK ENIC website. Make sure to allow time, as processing may take a few weeks.
3. Show Professional or Vocational Certifications (If Required)
Some jobs—particularly in healthcare, engineering, and legal fields—require specific certifications or licenses. For example:
Nurses and doctors may need to register with the General Medical Council (GMC) or Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
Engineers might need Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, depending on the role.
Teachers may need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Always check with your sponsoring employer or the UK government’s official guidance to ensure you meet industry-specific standards.
4. English Language Proficiency
You must prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English to at least B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. This can be shown by:
Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Holding a degree taught in English (if outside the UK, you may need a UK ENIC statement to verify this).
Being from an English-speaking country as listed by the UK Home Office.
5. Employer Confirmation
Your sponsoring employer plays a major role in verifying your qualifications. They must:
Provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with detailed information about your job.
Confirm that you meet the job’s skill and qualification level as per UK standards.
Ensure that the information on the CoS aligns exactly with your own documentation to avoid delays or rejections.
6. Keep Everything Clear and Organized
For a smooth visa application:
Translate all non-English documents with certified translations.
Ensure names, dates, and job titles are consistent across your application.
Scan and upload clear, legible copies of all documents.
Final Tips
Start early: Gathering certifications and ENIC statements can take time.
Double-check the job code: Make sure your job falls under an eligible occupation code with the correct requirements.
Consult an immigration advisor if your case is complex or if you’re unsure about your qualifications.
In summary: Proving your qualifications for a UK Skilled Worker visa means more than just having a degree. It’s about ensuring every piece of documentation clearly supports your eligibility under UK immigration rules. With the right preparation, you can strengthen your application and take a confident step toward building your career in the UK.
In partnership with Holmes & Partners Ltd, a leading solicitor firm with OISC Registration: F202000183.