🇬🇧 UK skilled worker visa

UK Skilled Worker Visa – Your Path to Living & Working in the UK

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is your opportunity to live and work in the UK. Secure a job, build your future, and enjoy life in a thriving economy.

Your Path to Working in the UK

The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows international professionals to live and work in the UK. To qualify, you need a job offer from an approved employer with a valid sponsorship licence. The role must meet specific skill and salary requirements. This visa opens doors to various career opportunities in the UK, from healthcare to engineering and IT.

At Student Ports, we provide dedicated support throughout the visa application process. Our expert team will help you find job opportunities with licensed employers and guide you step-by-step through the paperwork. We aim to make the application process smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on starting your career in the UK.

Introduction to the Skilled Worker Visa

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

Whether you’re an employer looking to hire someone from overseas or an individual seeking a sponsored work visa, it is crucial to fully understand the eligibility and application process to avoid complications or delays with the Home Office.

Failure to meet the requirements can result in visa refusal, meaning the loss of the application fee and the individual’s inability to work in the UK.

Next, we’ll walk you through the essentials of the Skilled Worker visa. Let’s take a look!

What is the Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker visa, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa, is now the primary work visa for individuals from overseas. It enables UK employers to sponsor skilled non-UK nationals to work in specific roles.

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet eligibility requirements, including securing a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence, proving sufficient skill level, and meeting English language standards.

These factors must add up to a total of 70 points to be eligible for the visa.

Spouses, civil partners, and dependent children of the main applicant can also apply to join them in the UK as Skilled Worker dependants. The visa is usually granted for up to five years, after which the worker may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.

Skilled Worker Visa Requirements

The rules and requirements for the Skilled Worker visa are outlined in Appendix Skilled Worker of the UK Immigration Rules.

To be eligible for the visa, applicants must accumulate 70 points, split between mandatory (non-tradeable) and tradeable criteria.

1. Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary

The general minimum salary requirement for most Skilled Worker visa applicants is £38,700 per year. This salary must also meet the hourly rate of £15.88 and align with the occupation’s going rate as stated in Appendix Skilled Worker.

Specific salary thresholds depend on the applicant’s circumstances, and certain categories allow for a lower salary threshold. For instance, applicants with a PhD relevant to the job or in a STEM subject can receive a salary discount, as can new entrants to the UK labour market.

Here’s a breakdown of salary requirements:

Option A (no discounts): Minimum salary of £38,700 per year and £15.88 per hour.
Option B (PhD relevant to the job): 10% salary discount, minimum of £34,830 per year and £15.88 per hour.
Option C (PhD in a STEM subject): 20% salary discount, minimum of £30,960 per year and £15.88 per hour.
Option D (Job on the Immigration Salary List): 20% salary discount, a minimum of £30,960 per year.
Option E (New entrants): 20% discount on the general threshold and 30% on the going rate, with a minimum annual salary of £ 30,960.

Separate thresholds apply for healthcare professionals, starting at £23,200 per year for certain health and care roles.

2. Sponsored Role Requirement

The Skilled Worker visa requires that applicants hold a valid job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK. This contributes 20 points towards the visa requirements. The sponsor must have a valid A-rated sponsorship licence, and the job must meet the skills threshold of RQF level 3 or above (equivalent to A-level).

Additionally, the sponsor must pay the Immigration Skills Charge, and the Home Office will verify the legitimacy of the vacancy and employment relationship to ensure it is genuine.

3. Certificate of Sponsorship Requirement

Before submitting a visa application, the employer must issue the applicant a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The CoS is a reference number unique to each applicant, confirming that the individual and the role meet the Skilled Worker visa eligibility criteria.

There are two types of CoS:

Defined Certificate of Sponsorship: For workers applying from outside the UK.
Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship: This is for individuals already in the UK, including those switching from other visa categories or extending their existing visa.

Only employers with a valid sponsorship licence can issue COS. Sponsors can request a defined COS from the Home Office for each new out-of-country application. At the same time, undefined COS are typically allocated annually based on business size and workforce needs.

4. Skill Level Requirement

To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, the applicant must work in an eligible role at or above RQF level 3, equivalent to UK A-levels. The Home Office uses Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes to determine whether a job meets the necessary skill level.

Employers must accurately identify the appropriate SOC code for the job being offered, and this code must match the eligible roles listed under Appendix Skilled Worker. The Home Office may request additional evidence or reject the application if an incorrect or unsuitable SOC code is used.

5. English Language Requirement

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening at level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

This requirement can be met by:

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

Applicants from certain countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) are exempt from this requirement.

6. Financial Maintenance Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate that they have had at least £1,270 in their bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying. This requirement is waived if the sponsor certifies they will meet the applicant’s financial needs during their first month in the UK.

Dependants will need additional funds: £285 for a partner, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each subsequent child.

7. Background Check Requirement

In some cases, applicants may need to submit a criminal records certificate as part of their application, particularly for education, health, or social care roles.

How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa?

The application process for a Skilled Worker visa involves several stages:

Step-by-Step Process:

Secure a Job Offer: Applicants must first secure a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence.
Apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): The UK employer issues the CoS, providing a reference number for the visa application.
Gather Supporting Documents: These include proof of identity (passport), CoS, proof of English proficiency, and financial maintenance evidence.
Submit the Online Application: Complete the online visa application form and pay the required fees.
Attend a Biometric Appointment: Applicants will provide fingerprints and photos at a visa application centre.
Wait for a Decision: The Home Office will process the application once all information has been submitted.
Receive the Visa: If approved, the visa will be issued, and the applicant can begin preparing to move to the UK.

Supporting Documents:

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

Skilled Worker Visa Fees & Processing Times

Visa Application Costs:

The visa fees depend on the length of the visa and whether the job is listed on the Immigration Salary List:

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, fees are reduced:

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

In addition to the application fee, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the NHS. The IHS is calculated at £624 per year of visa duration.

Processing Times:

Skilled Worker visa applications typically take up to 8 weeks if applying from within the UK and up to 3 weeks from outside the UK. Fast-tracked options (priority and super-priority services) are available at additional costs.

Duration & Conditions

1. Visa Duration:

The Skilled Worker visa is generally valid for up to five years. After this period, visa holders may apply for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). The visa can be extended indefinitely if the applicant meets the eligibility requirements.

2. Changing Jobs or Employers:

If a Skilled Worker visa holder changes their employer, they must apply for a new visa with a new Certificate of Sponsorship. This applies even if the individual changes jobs within the same company.

3. Taking on Additional Work:

Visa holders can take on additional work in the same occupation code as their primary job for up to 20 hours per week without applying for a new visa. However, if the second job falls outside their occupation code or is on the Immigration Salary List, they must apply for a variation to their current visa.

4. Losing Your Job:

In the event of job loss, the visa holder has a 60-day grace period to find new employment or switch to another visa category. They must leave the UK to avoid overstaying if no new job or visa is secured.

Skilled Worker Visa Requirements for Employers

Employers who wish to hire a non-UK resident must apply for a sponsorship licence from the Home Office. This licence enables the employer to sponsor overseas nationals for specific roles in eligible skilled occupations.

To qualify, the employer must meet the following conditions:

Be a legitimate UK-based organisation offering genuine employment that meets the required skill and salary thresholds.
Have adequate HR systems and personnel in place to manage sponsorship responsibilities.
Ensure key personnel within the organisation, particularly those managing the sponsor licence, are dependable and free of relevant criminal convictions or immigration violations.

Switching to the Skilled Worker Visa

Many visa holders can switch to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. This includes switching from a Student Visa, though students generally need to have completed their studies before applying.

Switching into the Skilled Worker route is impossible if the individual is in the UK under a visa category such as a visitor visa, short-term student visa, or domestic worker visa.

Skilled Worker Dependants

Skilled Worker visa holders may bring their spouse or partner and children under 18 to the UK. Dependants must apply separately for a visa, and the main applicant must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support their family.

The financial requirements for dependants are:

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

Skilled Worker Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants permanent residency in the UK. Skilled Worker visa holders can apply for ILR after continuously residing in the UK for five years.

To qualify, applicants must:

Hold a valid Skilled Worker visa.
Be employed in a qualifying role that meets the required skill level and salary threshold.
Pass an English language test at B1 level or higher.
Pass the Life in the UK test.

Applicants must also meet the residency requirement, which limits time spent outside the UK to no more than 180 days per 12-month period during the five-year qualifying period.

Skilled Worker Visa Points System

As we explained, the Skilled Worker visa is the main immigration pathway for non-UK nationals who wish to work in the UK in skilled roles. However, stringent eligibility criteria apply, including a requirement to score a specific number of points to qualify.

Now, we’ll walk you through the points required for a Skilled Worker visa, explaining the mandatory and tradeable points and additional non-point requirements that may apply.

What are the Skilled Worker Visa Points?

Under the UK’s points-based immigration system, all non-Irish overseas nationals subject to UK immigration control must meet various criteria to score enough points for their chosen visa route.

This is a sponsored route for the Skilled Worker visa, which requires applicants to first have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor that meets minimum skill and salary levels.

Visa applicants need to accumulate 70 points, including mandatory points for sponsorship, a job offer, and English language skills, plus tradeable points for salary and other attributes.

Depending on their situation, applicants may also need to meet non-points criteria such as financial maintenance and tuberculosis (TB) screening.

Mandatory Skilled Worker Visa Points

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must score 50 mandatory points, broken down as follows:

1. Sponsorship (20 points)

To secure 20 points for sponsorship, the applicant must be sponsored by a UK-based employer holding a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The Home Office must license the employer to sponsor workers under this visa category.

A valid CoS must:

Confirm the applicant’s name and that they are being sponsored as a Skilled Worker.
Include details of the job role and salary.
Show the start date (which must not be more than 3 months from the application date).
Confirm compliance with the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) if applicable.

The CoS must also not have been used in a previous application unless it is rejected as invalid or void.

Furthermore, the job role must be genuine, meet the National Minimum Wage and Working Time Regulations, and not involve hiring the visa applicant for third-party contract work.

The sponsor must also pay the Immigration Skills Charge, which applies to workers hired for six months or more from outside the UK or any length of time for in-country applicants.

2. Skilled Job Offer (20 points)

To secure 20 points for a skilled job offer, the applicant must be offered a role within an eligible occupation code listed under Appendix Skilled Worker of the Immigration Rules. This means the job must meet a skill level of at least RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels).

While the applicant doesn’t need to hold A-level qualifications, the job must require work at this level. The sponsor must assign the correct Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code that reflects the nature of the role, ensuring it meets the skill and salary thresholds.

Additionally, the job cannot be a sham, and the applicant must possess the skills and qualifications required for the role. If applicable, the applicant may also need an ATAS certificate to undertake PhD-level research in sensitive fields such as engineering or medicine.

3. English Language Skills (10 points)

Applicants must score 10 points for English language proficiency at the B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This requirement can be met in various ways:

Coming from a majority English-speaking country.
Holding a GCSE, A-level, or equivalent Scottish qualification in English.
Passing a language assessment as required for roles such as doctors, nurses, or vets.
Completing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) with an approved provider within the last two years.

Tradeable Skilled Worker Visa Points

In addition to the 50 mandatory points, applicants must score 20 tradeable points to reach 70 points for the Skilled Worker visa. These points are awarded based on the job’s salary and the applicant’s specific characteristics.

Most applicants’ salary threshold is £38,700 per year or £15.88 per hour. However, applicants can “trade” characteristics such as educational qualifications or job attributes for a lower salary threshold in certain circumstances. These options are set out as follows:

Option	Description	Points
A	Salary of at least £38,700 per year or the ‘going rate’	20
B	Salary of at least £34,830 and a relevant PhD qualification	20
C	Salary of at least £30,960 and a relevant STEM PhD	20
D	Salary of at least £30,960 and a job on the Immigration Salary List	20
E	Salary of at least £30,960 and applicant is a new entrant	20

In addition to these standard tradeable points options, there are further options (F-J) for applicants who applied before 4 April 2030, with continuous permission as a Skilled Worker under the rules in place before 4 April 2024. These options are:

Option	Description	Points
F	Salary of at least £38,700 per year or the ‘going rate’	20
G	Salary of at least £34,830 and a relevant PhD qualification	20
H	Salary of at least £30,960 and a relevant STEM PhD	20
I	Salary of at least £30,960 and a job on the Immigration Salary List	20
J	Salary of at least £30,960 and applicant is a new entrant	20

Finally, Option K is available to applicants working in listed health or education occupations, as set out in Table 3 of Appendix Skilled Worker:

Option	Description	Points
K	Salary of at least £30,960 and a job in a listed health or education occupation	20

Applicants must meet the relevant wage and skills criteria for their chosen option. Failure to score the required 20 tradeable points will result in the visa application being refused.

Additional Skilled Worker Visa Requirements

In addition to the points requirements, applicants must meet several non-points requirements. Failure to meet these could result in visa refusal.

1. Financial Maintenance

If applying from outside the UK or having lived in the UK for less than 12 months, applicants must show they have £1,270 in their bank account for at least 28 consecutive days. Alternatively, the sponsor may certify that they will financially support the applicant for their first month in the UK.

2. TB Screening

Applicants from certain countries must provide a valid TB screening certificate showing they do not have active pulmonary tuberculosis. The list of countries requiring screening is outlined in Appendix T of the Immigration Rules.

3. Criminal Record Check

If the applicant is applying for a role in healthcare, education, or similar sensitive occupations, they may need to submit a criminal record certificate. This requirement applies if the applicant has lived in any country for 12 months or more since turning 18 in the 10 years before applying.

Do You Need Assistance?

As you can see, the UK’s immigration system, particularly the Skilled Worker visa, can be complex for both applicants and employers.

Meeting eligibility criteria, scoring the necessary points, and adhering to non-point requirements are all crucial for a successful visa application.

At Student Ports, we offer expert guidance to simplify the visa process, ensuring you understand the points-based system and comply with Home Office rules.

Whether you’re an individual applying for a visa or an employer sponsoring talent, we provide tailored support, including:

Advice on eligibility criteria and points requirements.
Assistance with documentation preparation.
Sponsorship licence guidance for employers.
Help with understanding tradeable and mandatory points.
Support with switching visas or applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

For expert help with your application or immigration queries, contact Student Ports today to make your UK journey smooth and successful.

Skilled Trades & Maintenance

If you’re seeking a UK Skilled Worker Visa and have expertise in skilled trades and maintenance, there are several eligible occupation codes that can pave your way to a career in the UK. Skilled trades and maintenance professionals play a crucial role in various industries, and the UK recognises the need for qualified individuals in these fields.

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 o 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 o 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, making them essential for maintaining infrastructure, vehicles, and machinery across various sectors. The UK’s demand for these professionals means that obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa in these fields could be a viable path for many international applicants.

Each occupation has its own unique requirements and responsibilities, so it’s essential to ensure your qualifications and experience match the job titles listed. This category offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals with hands-on skills in construction, manufacturing, and maintenance.

If you qualify for any of these positions, you could be on your way to a rewarding career in the UK through the Skilled Worker Visa programme. For a complete and updated list of eligible occupation codes, please visit the official UK government.

Sales, Marketing, and Related Associate Professionals

If you’re aiming for a UK Skilled Worker Visa and have experience in sales, marketing, or related fields, the UK offers a range of eligible occupations under this category. These roles are vital across various industries, contributing to business growth and customer engagement.

Below are some of the key occupations included in this category:

1. Marketing Associate Professionals (Code 3543):

Marketing Executive
Digital Marketing Specialist
Social Media Manager
Content Marketing Coordinator

2. Sales Supervisors (Code 7130):

Sales Team Leader
Retail Supervisor
Sales Floor Manager
Department Supervisor

3. Estate Agents and Auctioneers (Code 3544):

Estate Agent
Property Valuer
Auctioneer
Letting Agent

4. Public Relations Professionals (Code 2472):

PR Executive
Communications Officer
Media Relations Specialist
Corporate Affairs Manager

5. Advertising Account Managers and Creative Directors (Code 2473):

Advertising Account Manager
Creative Director
Campaign Manager
Media Planner

6. Buyer and Purchasing Officers (Code 3541):

Procurement Officer
Buyer
Purchasing Coordinator
Supply Chain Analyst

7. Conference and Exhibition Organisers (Code 3546):

Event Planner
Conference Coordinator
Exhibition Manager
Event Organiser

These positions require professionals with strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and strategic thinking, making them indispensable to organisations looking to enhance their market presence and sales performance.

If you have the necessary skills and experience in any of these areas, the UK Skilled Worker Visa could be your gateway to a thriving career in the UK.

For more details and to check the full list of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website.

Public Services and Administration

For those interested in pursuing a UK Skilled Worker Visa within the Public Services and Administration sector, several eligible occupation codes cover a variety of roles essential to public welfare and administrative efficiency. This sector includes professionals who work in public policy, management, and regulatory enforcement.

Below are some of the key occupations within this category:

1. Public Services Associate Professionals (Code 3561):

Housing Officer
Community Development Worker
Social Services Officer
Environmental Health Officer

2. Government and Local Authority Administrative Occupations (Code 4112):

Local Government Administrator
Civil Service Administrative Officer
Policy Assistant
Registry Clerk

3. Regulatory and Compliance Officers (Code 3565):

Compliance Officer
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Licensing Officer
Health and Safety Inspector

4. Immigration and Customs Officers (Code 4159):

Border Force Officer
Customs Officer
Immigration Officer
Visa Compliance Officer

These roles are crucial for maintaining public services, enforcing regulations, and ensuring effective administration within government and related sectors. If your qualifications and experience align with these positions, you may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa to work in the UK.

For the most up-to-date and detailed list of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector is critical to the UK’s economy, and the country offers several opportunities for skilled professionals in this field through the Skilled Worker Visa program.

Below are some of the key eligible occupation codes within the ICT sector:

1. IT Business Analysts, Architects, and Systems Designers (Code 2135):

IT Business Analyst
Systems Architect
Solutions Architect
Systems Designer

2. Programmers and Software Development Professionals (Code 2136):

Software Developer
Programmer
Software Engineer
Application Developer

3. Web Design and Development Professionals (Code 2137):

Web Designer
Front-End Developer
Web Developer
UI/UX Designer

4. Information Technology and Telecommunications Directors (Code 1136):

IT Director
Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Head of IT
IT Manager

5. Cyber Security Specialists (Code 2139):

Cyber Security Analyst
Information Security Officer
Security Consultant
Penetration Tester

6. Network Engineers (Code 2134):

Network Engineer
Network Architect
Telecommunications Engineer
Infrastructure Engineer

7. Database Administrators (Code 2133):

Database Administrator (DBA)
Data Engineer
Database Manager
Data Architect

8. IT Support and Operations (Code 3131):

IT Support Specialist
Helpdesk Technician
IT Operations Manager
Technical Support Analyst

These roles are essential in developing, managing, and securing the technology infrastructure that businesses and public services rely on. If you have expertise in any of these areas, you could be eligible to apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

For the latest information and a complete list of eligible occupations, please visit the UK government website.

Healthcare and Social Services

The UK places a high priority on healthcare and social services, offering numerous opportunities for skilled professionals in these fields through the Skilled Worker Visa program.

Here are some of the key eligible occupation codes within this sector:

1. Medical Practitioners (Code 2211):

General Practitioner (GP)
Hospital Doctor
Surgeon
Anaesthetist

2. Nurses (Code 2231):

Registered Nurse
Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health Nurse
Paediatric Nurse

3. Social Workers (Code 2442):

Social Worker
Child and Family Social Worker
Clinical Social Worker
Mental Health Social Worker

4. Pharmacists (Code 2213):

Clinical Pharmacist
Hospital Pharmacist
Community Pharmacist
Research Pharmacist

5. Occupational Therapists (Code 2222):

Occupational Therapist
Rehabilitation Therapist
Paediatric Occupational Therapist
Geriatric Occupational Therapist

6. Physiotherapists (Code 2221):

Physiotherapist
Sports Physiotherapist
Rehabilitation Physiotherapist
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist

7. Midwives (Code 2232):

Registered Midwife
Community Midwife
Maternity Nurse
Neonatal Midwife

8. Paramedics (Code 3213):

Paramedic
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Advanced Paramedic Practitioner
Ambulance Paramedic

9. Residential, Day, and Domiciliary Care Managers and Proprietors (Code 1242):

Care Home Manager
Domiciliary Care Manager
Day Centre Manager
Residential Care Manager

These positions are vital to the healthcare and social service systems in the UK, providing essential care and support to the community. If you possess the required qualifications and experience in any of these roles, you may be eligible to apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

For the most updated list and details of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website.

Financial and Legal Services

The Financial and Legal Services sector is a cornerstone of the UK economy, offering numerous opportunities for skilled professionals through the Skilled Worker Visa program.

Here are some of the key eligible occupation codes within this category:

1. Financial Managers and Directors (Code 1131):

Finance Director
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Financial Manager
Treasury Manager

2. Chartered and Certified Accountants (Code 2421):

Chartered Accountant
Certified Accountant
Financial Auditor
Tax Consultant

3. Financial and Investment Analysts (Code 2423):

Investment Analyst
Financial Analyst
Credit Analyst
Risk Analyst

4. Legal Professionals (Code 2419):

Solicitor
Barrister
Legal Advisor
In-House Counsel

5. Actuaries, Economists, and Statisticians (Code 2425):

Actuary
Economist
Statistician
Risk Manager

6. Insurance Underwriters (Code 3532):

Insurance Underwriter
Claims Underwriter
Risk Underwriter
Insurance Assessor

7. Taxation Experts (Code 3534):

Tax Advisor
Tax Consultant
Tax Specialist
Tax Manager

These roles are critical for maintaining the financial stability and legal integrity of businesses and institutions across the UK. If you have expertise in any of these fields, you may qualify for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

For the most current and detailed list of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website.

Engineering and Manufacturing

The Engineering and Manufacturing sector in the UK is a vital industry offering diverse opportunities for skilled professionals. The UK Skilled Worker Visa includes several eligible occupations within this field.

Below are key roles you can consider:

1. Civil Engineers (Code 2121):

Structural Engineer
Site Engineer
Infrastructure Engineer

2. Mechanical Engineers (Code 2122):

Mechanical Design Engineer
Maintenance Engineer
Automation Engineer

3. Electrical Engineers (Code 2123):

Electrical Systems Engineer
Power Engineer
Control Engineer

4. Production Managers and Directors in Manufacturing (Code 1121):

Production Manager
Manufacturing Director
Operations Manager

5. Design and Development Engineers (Code 2126):

Product Development Engineer
Research Engineer
CAD Engineer

6. Quality Control and Planning Engineers (Code 2461):

Quality Assurance Engineer
Process Engineer
Production Planner

7. Chemical Engineers (Code 2125):

Process Engineer
Petrochemical Engineer
Environmental Engineer

8. Engineering Technicians (Code 3113):

Engineering Technician
Maintenance Technician
Manufacturing Technician

9. Draughtspersons (Code 3122):

CAD Technician
Draughtsman
Design Technician

These positions are essential to the UK’s industrial and infrastructure development. If you have the required qualifications and experience, you may be eligible for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

For more information and to view the full list of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website.

Education and Training

The UK values skilled professionals in the Education and Training sector, offering several eligible roles under the Skilled Worker Visa.

Here are some key occupations:

1.Primary and Nursery Education Teaching Professionals (Code 2312):

Primary School Teacher
Nursery Teacher
Early Years Educator

2. Secondary Education Teaching Professionals (Code 2314):

Secondary School Teacher
Subject Specialist Teacher
Head of Department

3. Further Education Teaching Professionals (Code 2317):

College Lecturer
Vocational Trainer
Adult Education Tutor

4. Special Needs Education Teaching Professionals (Code 2316):

SEN Teacher
Learning Support Teacher
Educational Psychologist

5. Teaching Assistants (Code 6125):

Classroom Assistant
Learning Support Assistant
Teaching Support Staff

6. Education Advisers and School Inspectors (Code 2319):

Education Consultant
School Inspector
Curriculum Advisor

These roles are crucial for nurturing the next generation and enhancing educational standards. If you have the qualifications and experience in these areas, you may qualify for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

For the most up-to-date information and a complete list of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website.

Creative and Media

The Creative and Media sector is vibrant and diverse, offering a wide range of opportunities for skilled professionals under the UK Skilled Worker Visa.

Below are some key eligible occupation codes within this category:

1. Journalists, Newspaper and Periodical Editors (Code 2471):

Journalist
News Editor
Features Editor
Broadcast Journalist

2. Authors, Writers, and Translators (Code 2471):

Author
Content Writer
Copywriter
Translator

3. Public Relations Professionals (Code 2472):

PR Officer
Media Relations Manager
Communications Specialist

4. Graphic Designers (Code 3421):

Graphic Designer
Visual Designer
Brand Designer

5. Photographers, Audio-visual and Broadcasting Equipment Operators (Code 3417):

Photographer
Camera Operator
Sound Technician

6. Arts Officers, Producers, and Directors (Code 3416):

Film Director
Theatre Producer
Artistic Director

These roles are essential in shaping the cultural landscape and media industry in the UK. If you have the necessary skills and experience, you may qualify for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

For more details and a complete list of eligible occupations, visit the UK government website

Our Process Has 3 Simple Steps

CV Refinement

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

AI-Friendly

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

Case Worker

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

🇬🇧 UK skilled worker visa

UK Skilled Worker Visa – Your Path to Living & Working in the UK

Your Path to Working in the UK

What is the Skilled Worker Visa?

1. Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary

2. Sponsored Role Requirement

3. Certificate of Sponsorship Requirement

4. Skill Level Requirement

5. English Language Requirement

6. Financial Maintenance Requirement

7. Background Check Requirement

Step-by-Step Process:

Supporting Documents:

Visa Application Costs:

Processing Times:

1. Visa Duration:

2. Changing Jobs or Employers:

3. Taking on Additional Work:

4. Losing Your Job:

1. Sponsorship (20 points)

2. Skilled Job Offer (20 points)

3. English Language Skills (10 points)

Applicants must meet the relevant wage and skills criteria for their chosen option. Failure to score the required 20 tradeable points will result in the visa application being refused.

1. Financial Maintenance

2. TB Screening

3. Criminal Record Check

Skilled Trades & Maintenance

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

Our Process Has 3 Simple Steps

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