What is the Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is the primary visa route for foreign professionals aiming to work in the UK under a licensed employer.

Replacing the Tier 2 (General) Visa, it’s designed to bring in highly skilled professionals in fields ranging from healthcare and IT to engineering and finance.

With this visa, you’ll be able to work for your sponsoring employer, build your career in the UK, and potentially even apply for permanent residency after a qualifying period.

Who is Eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa?

To qualify, you’ll need:

• A confirmed job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
• Meet the skill level and salary requirements: Your job must be of a specific skill level and meet the minimum salary threshold.
• English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate your language skills through an approved test or prior education.
• Obtain 70 points on the UK’s points-based immigration system, which evaluates factors like your job offer, salary, and language proficiency.

With these criteria, the Skilled Worker Visa ensures that skilled professionals with the right qualifications and job roles can contribute to the UK economy.

How Does the Points-Based System Work?

The Skilled Worker Visa uses a points-based system to assess eligibility, with a minimum of 70 points required:

• Job Offer from an Approved Sponsor (20 points)
• Job at an Appropriate Skill Level (20 points)
• English Language Proficiency (10 points)
• Salary Threshold (tradeable points for salary level, ranging from 0-20 points)
• Other Tradeable Points: These include shortage occupations and educational qualifications.

Each requirement plays a role in ensuring that visa holders are qualified and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.

What Are the Specific Job and Salary Requirements?

To meet eligibility, your job must:

• Be on the eligible occupation list as defined by the UK government.
• Meet minimum salary requirements, which will increase for certain roles starting in spring 2024. Currently, the minimum is £25,600 or the “going rate” for the role, whichever is higher, though certain exemptions apply for healthcare and education roles.

These requirements help the UK prioritise skilled roles in demand across various industries.

How Does the Sponsorship Process Work?

Employers must hold a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to bring in foreign employees:

• Licensed Sponsor: Your employer must be licensed by the UK Home Office and issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Compliance Requirements: Employers must follow strict guidelines, including paying the Immigration Skills Charge and maintaining an A-rated sponsorship license.

The sponsorship process is crucial for employers and employees to meet the Home Office’s requirements.

Can Family Members Join the Visa Holder in the UK?

Yes, dependents, including spouses, partners, and children under 18, can accompany you on the Skilled Worker Visa.

They’ll need:

• Separate Applications: Each dependent applies individually and must meet eligibility requirements.
• Financial Support: You’ll need to prove that you can support them financially.

Family inclusion makes the Skilled Worker Visa an attractive option for professionals looking to relocate with their loved ones.

What Are the Financial and Language Requirements?

To qualify, you’ll need:

• Proof of Financial Stability: Show that you have £1,270 in personal savings, unless your employer covers this requirement.
• English Language Proficiency: Prove proficiency through a test like IELTS or previous English-language education.

Meeting these requirements ensures that visa holders can support themselves and communicate effectively in their new role.

How Does the Application Process Work?

Applying for the Skilled Worker Visa involves:

• Securing a Job Offer and Sponsorship: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
• Filling Out the Online Application: Submit your application and pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
• Providing Supporting Documents: Include your passport, financial proof, and any necessary health checks.
• Attending a Biometric Appointment: Submit fingerprints through a visa center or the UK Immigration ID Check app.

The process typically takes three weeks from outside the UK, but planning ahead is key to meeting all requirements.

Is There a Pathway to Permanent Residency Through This Visa?

Yes, after five years on the Skilled Worker Visa, you may qualify to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), granting you permanent residency.

To be eligible, you must:

• Meet the residency requirement: Stay in the UK for at least five years.
• Maintain Employment: Continue working in your role or a similar qualifying role.
• Pass the Life in the UK Test.

ILR provides a stable pathway for those looking to settle in the UK and pursue long-term career opportunities.

What Are the Options for Employers Looking to Sponsor Skilled Workers?

For UK companies interested in hiring foreign talent, there are several steps to take:

• Apply for Sponsorship License: Obtain a license from the Home Office to sponsor overseas workers.
• Issue Certificates of Sponsorship: Once licensed, you can issue CoS to skilled workers, confirming their role and salary.
• Ensure Compliance: Follow Home Office rules, including the Immigration Skills Charge and employee monitoring.

Employers play a vital role in the visa process and must be proactive in meeting all compliance obligations.

FAQs for a Smooth Skilled Worker Visa Application

Start Your Skilled Journey in the UK Today

Ready to bring your expertise to the UK?

The Skilled Worker Visa is an excellent path for talented professionals looking to make a lasting impact.

Contact an immigration consultant to streamline the process and make sure your application is fully prepared.

Start your UK career journey with confidence.