UK Skilled Worker Visa Guide (2025): Requirements, Process, and Key Updates

The UK Skilled Worker visa is a key route for non-UK nationals seeking employment in the UK. It enables individuals with a job offer from a licensed sponsor to live and work in the UK. This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa and is part of the UK's points-based immigration system.

Overview of the Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker visa allows individuals to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer before applying and meet specific criteria, including skill level, salary threshold, and English language proficiency.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

Applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor. The employer will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a reference number needed for the visa application. The job must be on the list of eligible occupations.

2. Skill Level and Salary Threshold

The job must be at the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above). The general salary threshold is £38,700 per year or £10.75 per hour, whichever is higher. However, there are exceptions:

  • New Entrants: Applicants under 26, recent graduates, or those in professional training may qualify with a lower salary threshold of £30,960.

  • Jobs on the Immigration Salary List: Certain shortage occupations have lower salary requirements.

  • PhD Holders: Applicants with a relevant PhD may have reduced salary thresholds.

3. English Language Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency at least at level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. This can be proven by:

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

  • Having a degree-level academic qualification taught in English.

  • Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.

4. Financial Requirements

Applicants must have at least £1,270 in their bank account to support themselves upon arrival in the UK. This amount must have been available for at least 28 consecutive days. Exemptions apply if the applicant has been in the UK for 12 months or if the employer can cover these costs.

Application Process

1. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

The UK employer provides a CoS, which includes details about the job and a reference number for the visa application.

2. Online Application

Applicants must apply online within three months of receiving the CoS. The application process involves:

  • Providing personal details and job information.

  • Uploading required documents.

  • Paying the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

Depending on the applicant's nationality and passport type, they may need to attend a visa application centre to provide biometric information or use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app.

3. Processing Time

Processing times vary:

  • Outside the UK: Approximately 3 weeks.

  • Inside the UK: Approximately 8 weeks.

Applicants can opt for priority services at an additional cost for faster decisions.

Required Documents

Applicants need to provide:

  • A valid passport or other document proving identity and nationality.

  • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.

  • Job title and annual salary.

  • Occupation code.

  • Employer's name and sponsor licence number.

  • Proof of English language proficiency.

  • Evidence of personal savings (if applicable).

  • Tuberculosis test results (if from a listed country).

  • Criminal record certificate (for certain jobs).

  • Valid ATAS certificate (if applicable).

Fees and Costs

Application Fees

Fees depend on the length of stay and job type:

  • Up to 3 years: £719.

  • More than 3 years: £1,423.

Reduced fees apply for jobs on the Immigration Salary List and for Health and Care Worker visas.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Applicants must pay the IHS, which is £1,035 per year. This provides access to the UK's National Health Service.

Dependants

Applicants can bring their partner and children as dependants. Each dependant must apply separately and pay the visa fee and IHS. They must also prove they can support themselves financially.

Extension and Settlement

The Skilled Worker visa can be extended as long as the applicant continues to meet the eligibility requirements. After 5 years, holders may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing them to live and work in the UK permanently.

Recent Policy Changes

Recent reforms have impacted the Skilled Worker visa route:ft.com

  • Increased Salary Threshold: The minimum salary requirement has been raised to £38,700.

  • Settlement Period Extension: The residency period required for ILR has been proposed to increase from 5 to 10 years.

  • Restrictions on Dependants: New rules limit the ability of care workers to bring dependants unless specific conditions are met.

These changes aim to reduce net migration and encourage domestic workforce development.

The Skilled Worker visa provides a pathway for skilled professionals to contribute to the UK economy. While recent policy changes have introduced stricter requirements, the visa remains a vital route for international talent seeking opportunities in the UK.