🇬🇧 UK skilled worker visa

Apply for Skilled Worker Visa UK

This is your chance to live and grow your career with a Skilled Worker Visa UK. Secure a job, build your future, and thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
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Live, Work and Build Your Future In The UK

The Skilled Worker Visa UK allows you to live and work in the UK, opening the doors to the best careers in healthcare, engineering, IT, and more. To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK, you must have a job offer from an approved employer listed on the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor List and meet the Skilled Worker Visa salary requirement.

At Student Ports, we provide expert support throughout the Skilled Worker Visa UK application process. We will help you find jobs with licensed sponsors, understand the Skilled Worker Visa UK eligibility criteria, and navigate the Skilled Worker Visa minimum salary rules. We aim to make the application process smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on starting your career in the UK.

Guidance to Make Your Skilled Worker Visa UK Application

Got any uncertainties related to the Skilled Worker Visa UK process? Read our guidances below 👇

The Skilled Worker visa allows non-UK nationals to work in the UK for an approved sponsor in an eligible skilled role.

Whether you want to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK or you’re an employer seeking international talent, understanding the Skilled Worker Visa UK eligibility criteria, the Skilled Worker Visa salary requirement, and the Skilled Worker Visa UK new rules is crucial to avoid delays or rejections from the Home Office.

Failure to meet the requirements, such as the Skilled Worker Visa minimum salary, can lead to visa refusal, resulting in the loss of the Skilled Worker Visa application fee and the inability to work in the UK.

What Is the Skilled Worker Visa UK?

The Skilled Worker Visa UK, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa, enables UK employers to sponsor skilled workers in roles listed under the Skilled Worker Visa eligible occupations and codes.

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Have a job offer from an employer on the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor List
  • Meet the Skilled Worker Visa salary requirement
  • Demonstrate the required skill level and English proficiency
  • Score 70 points based on these criteria

The visa is typically granted for up to five years, after which applicants can renew Skilled Worker Visa status or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

The rules and requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa UK are outlined in Appendix Skilled Worker of the UK Immigration Rules. To qualify, applicants must accumulate 70 points, divided into mandatory (non-tradeable) and tradeable criteria.

1. Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary

The Skilled Worker Visa minimum salary for most applicants is £38,700 per year, with an hourly rate of £15.88. This salary must align with the occupation’s going rate listed in the Skilled Worker Visa UK eligibility occupations and codes. However, certain categories allow for salary reductions, such as:

  • PhD relevant to the job – 10% discount, minimum £34,830 per year
  • PhD in a STEM subject – 20% discount, minimum £30,960 per year
  • Job on the Immigration Salary List – 20% discount, minimum £30,960 per year
  • New entrants – 20% discount on the general threshold, 30% on the going rate, minimum £30,960 per year
  • Healthcare roles – Minimum £23,200 per year for certain positions
2. Sponsored Role Requirement

To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK, applicants need a valid job offer from an employer listed on the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor List. This adds 20 points toward eligibility. The employer must hold an A-rated sponsorship licence, and the job must meet the Skilled Worker Visa salary requirement and be at RQF level 3 or above.

Additionally, employers must pay the Immigration Skills Charge, and the Home Office will assess whether the job offer is genuine.

3. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Requirement

Before applying, the employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to confirm that the applicant meets the Skilled Worker Visa UK eligibility criteria. There are two types of CoS:

There are two types of CoS:

  • Defined CoS – For applicants outside the UK
  • Undefined CoS – For those already in the UK, including those applying for a Skilled Worker Visa extension

Only employers with a valid sponsorship licence can issue a CoS.

4. Skill Level Requirement

The role must meet the RQF level 3 standard (equivalent to A-levels). The Home Office uses Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes to determine eligibility. If an incorrect SOC code is used, the visa application may be rejected.

5. English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at B1 level (CEFR) by:

This requirement can be met by:

  • Passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT)
  • Holding a degree taught in English
  • Having GCSE, A-level, or Scottish Higher English qualifications

Applicants from English-speaking countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) are exempt.

6. Financial Maintenance Requirement

Applicants must have at least £1,270 in savings for 28 consecutive days before applying. If the employer certifies financial support, this requirement is waived. Dependants must show additional funds:

  • £285 for a partner
  • £315 for the first child
  • £200 for each additional child
7. Background Check Requirement

Certain roles, such as those in education, healthcare, or social care, require a criminal records certificate as part of the Skilled Worker Visa UK application process.

The application process for a Skilled Worker Visa UK involves multiple steps, ensuring applicants meet the necessary criteria before moving to the UK for employment.

The Step-by-Step Process:
  1. Secure a Job Offer – Applicants must first receive a job offer from a UK employer listed on the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor List. The role must meet the Skilled Worker Visa salary requirement and be classified under the Skilled Worker Visa eligible occupations and codes.
  2. Apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – The UK employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with a unique reference number, confirming the job offer aligns with Skilled Worker Visa UK eligibility.
  3. Gather Supporting Documents – Required documents include proof of identity (passport), CoS, proof of English proficiency, and financial maintenance evidence. If applying for a Skilled Worker Visa extension, additional documents may be required.
  4. Submit the Online Application – Applicants must apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK through the Home Office portal and pay the Skilled Worker Visa application fee. The Skilled Worker Visa cost varies based on job role, visa duration, and whether the job is on the shortage occupation list.
  5. Attend a Biometric Appointment – Applicants must visit a visa application centre to submit fingerprints and photos as part of the verification process.
  6. Wait for a Decision – The UK Skilled Worker Visa processing time is typically 3-8 weeks, though priority processing is available for faster results.
  7. Receive the Visa – If approved, the applicant can travel to the UK and begin working. Those switching visas (e.g., Can I switch from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa without completing a degree course in UK?) must follow specific transition rules.
Supporting Documents Required:

Applicants must submit:

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (from the UK employer)
  • Passport (current and any expired covering UK stays)
  • Proof of English proficiency (e.g., Secure English Language Test (SELT) certificate, degree taught in English)
  • Bank statements (showing maintenance funds)
  • TB test results (if applicable)
  • Proof of relationship (for dependants)
  • Criminal record certificate (for roles in healthcare, education, or social care)
  • ATAS certificate (for specific roles in sensitive fields) 

The Skilled Worker Visa application fee depends on the visa duration and whether the job is listed under the Skilled Worker Visa eligible occupations and codes:

  • Up to 3 years: £719 (outside the UK) / £827 (inside the UK)
  • More than 3 years: £1,420 (outside the UK) / £1,636 (inside the UK)

For jobs on the Immigration Salary List, the Skilled Worker Visa cost is lower:

  • Up to 3 years: £551
  • More than 3 years: £1,084

Related with the Skilled Worker Visa application fee, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows access to NHS healthcare. The IHS is £624 per year of visa duration.

UK skilled worker visa processing time:

The UK Skilled Worker Visa processing time depends on where the application is submitted:

  • Inside the UK: Up to 8 weeks
  • Outside the UK: Up to 3 weeks
1. Visa Duration:

A Skilled Worker visa UK is typically valid for up to five years. After this period, applicants can renew skilled worker visa status or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The renewal process follows standard UK Skilled Worker visa processing time, which generally takes up to 8 weeks.

2. Changing Jobs or Employers:

If a Skilled Worker visa holder wants to change employers, they must apply for a new visa with a fresh Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), even if the new role is within the same company. The processing time for a new application remains consistent with standard UK Skilled Worker visa processing time.

3. Taking on Additional Work:

Visa holders can take on skilled worker visa additional work of up to 20 hours per week in the same occupation code as their primary job. However, if the second job falls under a different occupation code or is on the Immigration Salary List, they may need to update their visa.

4. Losing Your Job:

What happens if you lose your job on a Skilled Worker visa UK? The Home Office grants a 60-day grace period (or until the visa expires, whichever is sooner) for the individual to find new employment or switch to another visa category. If no new job or visa is secured, they must leave the UK to avoid overstaying.

5. Staying Outside the UK:

How long can I stay outside the UK with a Skilled Worker visa? Visa holders can travel freely but should not remain outside the UK for extended periods, especially if they plan to apply for ILR. Absences longer than 180 days in a 12-month period could affect ILR eligibility.

Under the Skilled Worker Visa UK, employers looking to hire non-UK residents must first obtain a sponsorship licence from the Home Office. This licence grants them the authority to sponsor overseas professionals in roles listed under the Skilled Worker Visa Eligible Occupations and Codes.

To comply with the Skilled Worker Visa UK New Rules, employers must meet the following conditions:

  • Operate as a legitimate UK-based organisation offering genuine employment that meets the Skilled Worker Visa UK Eligibility criteria, including skill level and Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary thresholds.
  • Be listed on the Skilled Worker Visa Sponsor List, which includes approved UK businesses authorised to hire foreign workers.
  • Maintain a structured HR system to oversee sponsorship duties, ensuring compliance with Home Office regulations.
  • Designate key personnel to manage the sponsorship process, ensuring they are free from prior immigration violations or criminal records.

Employers must also ensure that job roles meet the correct Skilled Worker Visa Eligible Occupations and Codes to avoid complications with applications. Failing to comply with Skilled Worker Visa UK New Rules can lead to delays, penalties, or even revocation of the sponsorship licence.

Many visa holders can apply for a Skilled Worker visa UK from within the country if they meet the Skilled Worker visa UK eligibility criteria. This includes those switching from a Student visa. However, under the Skilled Worker visa UK new rules, students typically need to complete their degree before applying.

For those wondering, “Can I switch from Student visa to Skilled Worker visa without completing a degree course in UK?”, exceptions exist, such as PhD students who have completed at least 24 months of study.

Switching is not allowed for individuals on certain visa types, including a visitor visa, short-term student visa, or domestic worker visa. Those on ineligible visas must leave the UK and submit a fresh application from abroad.

Under the Skilled Worker visa UK new rules, visa holders can bring their dependants, including a spouse or partner and children under 18. Each Skilled Worker visa dependant must apply separately, and the main applicant must meet the Skilled Worker visa UK eligibility requirements, including financial maintenance criteria.

The financial requirements for dependants are:

  • £285 for a partner
  • £315 for the first child
  • £200 for each additional child

Applicants must ensure they have sufficient funds to support their family when applying for a Skilled Worker visa UK. Those considering a status change may ask, “Can I switch from Skilled Worker visa to dependent visa?”, this is possible under certain conditions, provided the main applicant maintains their visa status.

For those planning to bring dependants, understanding the Skilled Worker visa cost, processing times, and financial obligations is crucial to a successful application.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows Skilled Worker visa UK holders to gain permanent residency after five years of continuous residence. Under the Skilled Worker visa UK new rules, applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria before applying.

Eligibility Criteria for ILR

To qualify for ILR through the Skilled Worker visa UK, applicants must:

  • Hold a valid Skilled Worker visa UK.
  • Be employed in a role listed on the Skilled Worker visa eligible occupations and codes list.
  • Meet the Skilled Worker visa salary requirement, ensuring their earnings align with the Skilled Worker visa minimum salary threshold.
  • Pass an approved English language test (B1 level or higher).
  • Complete the Life in the UK test.
  • Comply with the residency requirement, which limits absences from the UK to no more than 180 days per 12-month period during the five-year qualifying period.
How Long Can I Stay Outside the UK With a Skilled Worker Visa?

Exceeding the permitted 180 days per year outside the UK may affect eligibility for ILR. Those looking to apply should ensure they comply with all conditions to maintain their residency status.

For those needing an extension before meeting the ILR criteria, a Skilled Worker visa extension is an option, allowing individuals to continue working until they become eligible for permanent residency.

Industries That Are Hiring Skilled Workers in the UK

Choose the industry that aligns the best with your skills and qualifications.

Skilled Trades & Maintenance

If you’re looking to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK and have expertise in skilled trades and maintenance, there are several Skilled Worker Visa eligible occupations and codes that can help you secure a career in the UK. Skilled professionals in these fields play a vital role in various industries, and the UK actively seeks qualified individuals to fill these essential roles.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the eligible job titles within this category:

1. Electricians and Electrical Fitters (Code 5241): 

  • Electrician
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Electrical Technician
  • Domestic Installer

2. Plumbers and Heating Engineers (Code 5314):

  • Plumber
  • Heating Engineer
  • Gas Service Engineer
  • Pipe Fitter

3. Carpenters and Joiners (Code 5315):

  • Carpenter
  • Joiner
  • Shopfitter
  • Woodworker

4. Bricklayers and Masons (Code 5312):

  • Bricklayer
  • Mason
  • Stonemason
  • Blocklayer

5. Painters and Decorators (Code 5323):

  • Painter
  • Decorator
  • Interior Painter
  • Wallpaper Installer

6. Construction Operatives (Code 8149):

  • Construction Worker 
  • Site Operative
  • Builder’s Labourer
  • Groundworker 

7. Welders and Metalworkers (Code 5215):

  • Welder
  • Metal Fabricator
  • Sheet Metal Worker
  • Blacksmith

8. Roofers, Roof Tilers, and Slaters (Code 5313):

  • Roofer
  • Roof Tiler
  • Slater
  • Roof Sheeter

9. Glaziers, Window Fabricators, and Fitters (Code 5316):

  • Glazier
  • Window Fitter
  • Curtain Wall Installer
  • Glass Installer

These roles require specific skills and qualifications, which makes them essential for maintaining infrastructure, construction projects, and manufacturing operations. The UK’s demand for these professionals means obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa UK in these fields can be a practical pathway for many international applicants.

Our Process Has 3 Simple Steps

number-1
CV Refinement

We expertly refine your CV to align with UK industry standards and expectations.

number-2
AI-Friendly

We create a tailored version of your CV, optimised to pass through AI recruitment filters.

number-3
Case Worker

We assign a dedicated case worker who actively searches and applies for jobs on your behalf.

Some Frequently Asked Questions From Students

Can i switch from student visa to skilled worker visa without completing a degree course in uk

Yes, it is possible to switch from a student visa to a Skilled Worker Visa without completing your degree, but there are certain conditions. You must have a job offer from a UK employer that is on the Skilled Worker Visa sponsor list and meets the Skilled Worker Visa salary requirement. Your job must also be in an eligible occupation. It’s best to check the latest rules on the UK government website.

If you lose your job while on a Skilled Worker Visa UK, you must find a new employer who is willing to sponsor you within 60 days or before your visa expires, whichever comes first. If you don’t secure a new job in time, you may have to leave the UK. It’s important to check the rules and explore options like applying for a different visa or switching to a dependent visa if eligible.

There is no strict limit on how long you can stay outside the UK while holding a Skilled Worker Visa, but extended absences may affect your eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). To qualify for ILR after five years, you must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.

Yes, you can switch from a Skilled Worker Visa to a Dependent Visa if your partner or parent is in the UK under a different visa category that allows dependents. You will need to apply and meet the eligibility criteria for a dependent visa, including financial requirements.

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