UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK continues to be a top destination for international professionals seeking career growth and long-term opportunities. If you’re planning to work in the UK, the Skilled Worker visa is a vital route. This guide offers a complete overview of eligibility requirements, costs, the application process, and the many benefits of working in the UK under this visa.
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What is a UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker visa allows overseas nationals to work legally in the UK for an approved employer in a job that meets the required skill and salary levels. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.

This visa is designed for individuals with a confirmed job offer in eligible roles across sectors like:

  • Health and care
  • IT and engineering
  • Education
  • Construction
  • Hospitality and more
To apply, you need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK employer.

Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, you must meet several core criteria, including:

  • A job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor workers
  • A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with details about your role
  • A job on the list of eligible occupations
  • A minimum salary (generally £26,200/year or £10.75/hour, or £20,960/year for shortage occupations)
  • English language proficiency at CEFR level B1 (intermediate)

You must also have a valid passport and provide biometric information during your application process.

Eligible Occupations for a Skilled Worker Visa

Your job must be on the Skilled Worker eligible occupation list and meet minimum salary and skill requirements. Some accepted roles include:

  • Healthcare and care workers: nurses, paramedics, senior care workers
  • IT professionals: software developers, cybersecurity specialists
  • Engineers: civil, electrical, mechanical engineers
  • Teachers: maths, physics, computer science
  • Chefs and hospitality managers (specific roles)
  • Construction and trade roles: bricklayers, welders

Roles on the shortage occupation list offer reduced salary thresholds and lower visa fees.
Your employer must provide your occupation code and meet sponsorship duties.

UK Skilled Worker Visa Application and Processing Time

You can apply for a Skilled Worker visa up to 3 months before your job start date, as listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

Applying from Outside the UK

You’ll typically get a decision within 3 weeks of submitting your biometrics and application

Applying from Inside the UK

For visa extensions or switching from another visa category, the processing time is usually 8 weeks.

Priority Services

  • Fast-track services are available in many countries at an additional cost, with decisions sometimes in 1–5 working days, depending on the service.

Always check processing timelines for your specific location.

English Language Requirement

To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, you must prove your English proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. You can meet this requirement if:

  • You’re from a majority English-speaking country
  • You’ve passed a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider
  • You have a degree taught in English and recognized by the UK ENIC
  • You’ve met this requirement in a previous UK visa application

Minimum English Level Required:

  • CEFR level B1 (intermediate level)

If you’re applying for a health or care role, you may need to take a specific test like IELTS for UKVI or OET.

Skilled Worker Visa Fees and Other Costs

The Skilled Worker visa involves several mandatory and optional fees. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan:

1. Visa Application Fee

  • Up to 3 years: £719 (standard), or £551 if your job is on the shortage occupation list
  • More than 3 years: £1,420 (standard), or £1,084 (shortage occupation)

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

  • £1,035 per year of stay
  • Paid upfront (e.g., £3,105 for a 3-year visa)

3. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

  • Paid by the employer; cost is usually £239 per CoS

4. Other Possible Costs

  • English language test (SELT or equivalent)
  • Tuberculosis test (if required for your country)
  • Biometric enrolment fee (around £20)
  • Priority processing fee (optional)

Fees are subject to change, so always check the official UKVI site.

Visa Rights and Restrictions

Once granted, the Skilled Worker visa gives you the right to live and work in the UK legally, with certain conditions to follow.

What You Can Do

  • Work in your sponsored job and change jobs (if a new sponsorship is approved)
  • Study part-time alongside work
  • Bring eligible dependents (spouse/partner and children)
  • Travel in and out of the UK
  • Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years, if eligible

What You Cannot Do

  • Work in a different job or employer without permission
  • Claim public funds or benefits
  • Work in sports coaching or as a professional athlete (unless sponsored under those roles)
  • Start your own business or be self-employed

Always notify UKVI of major changes like address, job role, or employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I apply for the Skilled Worker visa?
You can apply up to 3 months before your job’s start date, as listed on your CoS
Most applications are processed within 3 weeks (outside the UK) or 8 weeks (inside the UK). Priority services are available.
Yes. Spouses, partners, and children can apply as your dependents, but they must meet separate financial requirements.
Typically £26,200/year or £20,960/year for shortage occupation roles.
Yes. If you’re already on a valid UK visa, you may be able to switch to the Skilled Worker visa category.
Yes. After 5 continuous years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).