Overview of the UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is tailored for qualified professionals from around the globe, enabling them to live and work in the United Kingdom. This visa has replaced the former Tier 2 (General Work Visa) and permits foreign skilled workers to undertake eligible employment with a UK Home Office-approved employer.

Holders of this visa can reside and work in the UK for up to 5 years. Post this period, they may become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR), offering a pathway to settle in the UK permanently.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Skilled Worker Visa

1. Employment Requirements

To qualify for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must:

• Be employed by a Home Office-approved UK employer.

• Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from their employer, detailing their job role.

• Secure a job from the UK’s list of eligible occupations.

• Meet the minimum salary threshold.

Important: A confirmed job offer is mandatory before applying.

Occupation Code:
To verify job eligibility, applicants need the 4-digit occupation code of their job. If uncertain, use the CASCOT occupation coding tool to identify the appropriate code. Ensure the job description matches closely with the offered role.

2. Salary Requirements

Applicants are typically required to earn either:

• A minimum of £38,700 annually, or

• The going rate for their specific occupation (whichever is higher).

Each eligible job has its own defined salary benchmarks.

3. English Language Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate their ability to read, write, speak, and understand English at a minimum B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

Ways to prove English proficiency:

• Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.

• Hold a GCSE, A-level, or equivalent qualification in English from a UK institution.

• Possess a degree-level qualification taught in English. If studied outside the UK, get it verified by Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC).

Required Documents for UK Skilled Worker Visa

Applicants must provide the following documents:

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.

• Proof of English language proficiency.

• Valid passport and identity documents.

• Details of job title, annual salary, and 4-digit occupation code.

• Employer’s name and sponsor licence number.

Additional Documents (if applicable):

• Proof of funds to support oneself.

• Evidence of relationship with dependents or partner.

• Tuberculosis test results.

• Police clearance certificate.

• Certificates from countries previously resided in.

How to Apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa

Applications must be submitted online. The process varies based on your current location:

• Applying from outside the UK.

• Extending your visa from within the UK.

• Switching from another visa within the UK.

If changing your job or employer, you must apply to update your visa.

For expert guidance, consult with Edurange Global Careers – Gujarat’s leading visa consultancy.

UK Skilled Worker Visa Fees

Application Fees (from outside the UK):

• Up to 3 years: £719 per person

• More than 3 years: £1,420 per person

Application Fees (from inside the UK for extension/switch):

• Up to 3 years: £827 per person

• More than 3 years: £1,636 per person

Financial Requirements:
Applicants must have at least £1,270 in their bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying. Additional funds are required for dependents:

1. £285 for a partner

2. £315 for one child

3. £200 for each additional child

Healthcare Surcharge:
An annual healthcare surcharge of £1,035 applies for each year of stay.

Processing Time for UK Skilled Worker Visa

• Outside the UK: Approximately 3 weeks.

• Inside the UK: Around 8 weeks.

Applicants may opt for super-priority services for faster processing.

Application Tip: You can apply up to 3 months before your job start date, which will be mentioned on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

Validity and Extension of the UK Skilled Worker Visa

The visa is valid for up to 5 years. After this period, applicants can:

• Apply for an extension if continuing in the same role.

• Apply for Permanent Residency (PR), also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), granting the freedom to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely.

Conditions for Extension:

• Continuing in the same job role and occupation code.

• Employment with the same sponsor.

• Meeting the ongoing salary requirements.

Applicants must remain within the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man while awaiting a decision on their extension.