UK Skilled Worker Visa: Eligibility and Application Guide

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most popular visa options for people who want to move to the United Kingdom for work. It has become a gateway for professionals from all over the world, including doctors, nurses, engineers, tech experts, and many more. If you’re someone with skills that the UK needs and you’ve got a job offer, this visa could be your chance to live and work in one of the world’s most developed countries.

This visa replaced the old Tier 2 (General) work visa and was designed to be more flexible and accessible. With the UK facing skill shortages in certain sectors, they’re welcoming qualified workers from abroad with open arms. But like every immigration process, it comes with its own rules and procedures.

That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you know the UK Skilled Worker Visa, who can apply, how to apply, and what you should expect.

About the UK Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker visa lets foreigners come to the UK to do an eligible job with an approved UK employer. The employer must be a licensed sponsor, and they must provide you with a certificate of sponsorship (CoS). You can stay in the UK for up to 5 years, and you may be able to extend it or even apply for permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain) later on.

This visa is points-based, so you need to score at least 70 points based on things like your job offer, salary, qualifications, and English skills.

UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Requirements

I’m sure you know that in order to apply for the Skilled Worker visa, you must meet certain conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Job Offer from a UK Employer

The first and most important requirements is that you must have a valid job offer from an employer who is approved by the UK Home Office to sponsor workers. The employer must give you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which includes information about the role and your personal details.

1. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Then as we have already said, your employer will give you a Certificate of Sponsorship. It’s a unique reference number that confirms details about the job. This certificate must have been issued not more than three months before your application.

1. Eligible Occupation

Not all jobs qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa. You must be applying for a role that’s on the UK’s list of eligible occupations for Skilled Worker visas. Some popular jobs include IT specialists, nurses, engineers, teachers, and chefs.

1. Minimum Salary Requirement

Now to the salary. You usually need to be paid at least £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour —whichever is higher. Though for some shortage occupations or new graduates, this amount may be lower.

1. English Language Proficiency

You must prove that you can speak, read, write, and understand English to at least B1 level on the CEFR scale. This can be done through:

• An approved English language test (like IELTS UKVI)
• A degree taught in English
• Being from an English-speaking country

1. Financial Requirement

Then, you’ll need to show you can support yourself when you arrive in the UK. Usually, this means having at least £1,270 in your bank account unless your employer is covering your costs.

How to Apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa

Ready to apply? Here’s how the process goes, step-by-step:

Step 1: Get a Job Offer

First, you need to find a job with a UK employer who is licensed to sponsor skilled workers. Once you get the offer, they’ll give you the Certificate of Sponsorship.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You’ll need to prepare the following documents with you:

• Your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
• Proof of English proficiency
• A valid passport
• Bank statements (if needed)
• TB test results (for some countries)
• Criminal record certificate (for certain jobs)

Step 3: Apply Online

The third step to take is to go to the UK government visa website and fill out the application form for the Skilled Worker visa. It’s a straightforward form, but make sure everything matches your documents.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

You’ll need to pay the visa fee (varies based on your stay and job type) and the Immigration Health Surcharge. It’s usually £1,035 per year so you can use the UK’s NHS.

Step 5: Book Your Biometrics Appointment

You will be required to go to a visa application centre to submit your fingerprints and have a picture taken.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

After submitting everything, wait for the UK Home Office to process your visa. This usually takes a few weeks.

Processing Time for a Skilled Worker Visa

When you have submitted your visa application and attended your biometric appointment you will normally receive a decision within 3 weeks if you are applying outside the UK. If you are inside the UK (to extend your visa or switch your visa type) it may take around 8 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s tackle some of the most asked questions about the Skilled Worker visa:

How much does the Skilled Worker Visa cost?

The visa fee ranges between £719 to £1,500 depending on your situation. You also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge which is about £1,035 per year.

Who is eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa?

Anyone with a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor, for an eligible job, and who meets the salary and English requirements.

Can I bring my family to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?

Yes! You can bring your spouse or partner and children, but you’ll need to prove your relationship and show you have enough funds to support them.

What happens if I lose my job?

You must find another job with a licensed sponsor within 60 days or the remaining period of your visa, whichever is shorter. If not, you may have to leave the UK.

How long does it take for UK Skilled Worker visa to be approved?

Usually around 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK. It might take longer if extra checks are needed.

What is the minimum qualification for work visa in the UK?

There’s no strict academic requirement, but your job must match a certain skill level. Many eligible jobs require at least an A-level or university degree equivalent.

Can I get UK Skilled Worker visa without IELTS?

Yes, if you are from an English-speaking country or if your degree was taught in English. Otherwise, you’ll need to take an approved English test like IELTS UKVI.

Will there be an interview for UK Skilled Worker visa?

Usually, no interview is required. But in rare cases, the UK embassy may call you in for more clarification.

Can a UK Skilled Worker visa get rejected?

Yes. Common reasons include incomplete documents, wrong information, low salary offer, or failing the English requirement. Always double-check before submitting.

What jobs are eligible for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK?

Eligible jobs are in healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, teaching, and more. You can check the full list on the UK government website.

Is it hard to get UK Skilled Worker visa?

It’s not hard if you meet the requirements. The process is quite clear, and many people get approved each year. Just make sure your documents are in order and your job is eligible.

Final Thoughts

Lastly, the UK Skilled Worker Visa is an excellent option if you’re looking to launch your career, gain international experience, and potentially settle in the UK permanently. Although it can seem like a stressful process in its entirety, it’s definitely achievable especially once you start breaking it down into simple steps as we’ve done here.

Just remember, land that job first, ensure it’s eligible, organise your documents, and follow the visa application steps. And just from this article, if you have any uncertainty  then don’t hesitate to contact some immigration specialists or read the UK Government website.

So, are you a nurse, developer, teacher, or engineer? Then this may be your opportunity. So go and chase that dream, and perhaps we will see you in London one day!