Appendix Skilled Worker is the section of the UK Immigration Rules outlining the requirements for the Skilled Worker visa, the main route for foreign nationals wishing to work in the UK. This visa allows skilled professionals with job offers from UK employers to live and work in the UK. Here’s a detailed guide on the requirements under Appendix Skilled Worker, including eligibility criteria, the points-based system, and the application process.
1. What is Appendix Skilled Worker?
Appendix Skilled Worker specifies the eligibility requirements for foreign nationals applying for the UK’s Skilled Worker visa. This visa replaced the previous Tier 2 (General) visa and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
Key Points:
- Eligible Occupations: The visa is available for skilled roles only, which must meet certain skill and salary thresholds.
- Points-Based System: Applicants must accumulate at least 70 points based on job offer, salary, skill level, English proficiency, and other attributes.
- Sponsorship Requirement: Applicants need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK employer.
The Skilled Worker visa can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years, providing a pathway to permanent residency.
2. Eligibility Requirements Under Appendix Skilled Worker
To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Job Offer: Applicants must have a genuine job offer from a UK employer who holds a Skilled Worker sponsor license.
- Skill Level: The job must be at RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or higher, as defined by the UK’s Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes.
- Salary Threshold: The job must pay at least £26,200 per year, or the “going rate” for the occupation, whichever is higher. There are some exceptions for specific roles and new entrants.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must prove they can speak, read, write, and understand English at a B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale.
These requirements ensure that Skilled Worker visa applicants have a genuine job offer for a skilled role and can support themselves in the UK.
3. The Points-Based System for Skilled Worker Visa
Under Appendix Skilled Worker, applicants must accumulate a minimum of 70 points based on certain mandatory and tradeable criteria.
Core (Mandatory) Points:
| Criteria | Points | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Job Offer from a Sponsor | 20 points | Valid job offer from a licensed UK employer. |
| Skilled Role | 20 points | Role must be at RQF Level 3 or above. |
| English Language Requirement | 10 points | Must prove English language proficiency at CEFR B1 level. |
These core points are mandatory, totaling 50 points.
Tradeable Points:
Applicants must achieve the remaining 20 points through tradeable criteria, which vary based on salary, job field, and qualifications.
| Tradeable Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Salary meets general threshold of £26,200 or going rate | 20 points |
| Salary at least £23,040 or 90% of the going rate | 10 points |
| Salary at least £20,480 or 80% of the going rate (for specific roles) | 10 points |
| Job in a shortage occupation (as defined by the UK) | 20 points |
| Education (PhD relevant to the job) | 10 points |
| Education (PhD in STEM subject relevant to the job) | 20 points |
By combining these points, applicants must reach the 70-point threshold for their Skilled Worker visa to be approved.
4. Shortage Occupations and Tradeable Points
Certain roles in the UK are designated as shortage occupations, which allows applicants in these fields to score additional points and potentially qualify with a lower salary threshold.
- Shortage Occupation List: Roles in healthcare, engineering, IT, and teaching are commonly included.
- Points for Shortage Occupations: Applicants in these fields receive 20 additional points, which can help them meet the 70-point requirement even if they don’t meet the standard salary threshold.
Applicants should check if their role is on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List, as it can increase the likelihood of meeting the visa requirements.
5. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Requirement
To apply under Appendix Skilled Worker, applicants need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from their UK employer.
- Sponsor License: The employer must hold a valid sponsor license to issue a CoS for the Skilled Worker visa.
- Job Information: The CoS includes key information about the job offer, including role description, salary, and working hours.
- Application Validity: The CoS is valid for three months from the date of issue, so applicants should apply promptly after receiving it.
The CoS is central to the application, as it confirms the job offer and helps applicants meet the required points for the Skilled Worker visa.
6. Financial Requirement
Appendix Skilled Worker includes a financial requirement to ensure that applicants can support themselves upon arrival.
- Proof of Funds: Applicants need to show they have £1,270 available, unless their employer certifies maintenance on the CoS. Funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days.
- Exemption for Certain Applicants: Those who have been in the UK for 12 months or more on a valid visa are exempt from this requirement.
This ensures that Skilled Worker visa holders can cover initial living expenses without needing public funds.
7. How to Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying under Appendix Skilled Worker:
- Receive a Job Offer and CoS: Ensure you have a qualifying job offer from a licensed sponsor and receive a valid CoS.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather documents such as your passport, proof of English language proficiency, bank statements (if applicable), and any required certificates or licenses for your role.
- Complete the Online Application: Submit your Skilled Worker visa application through the UK government’s online portal.
- Pay Visa Fees and Health Surcharge: The visa fee depends on the length of stay and whether the job is on the Shortage Occupation List. You’ll also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which provides access to the National Health Service (NHS).
- Attend Biometric Appointment: Schedule and attend an appointment to submit biometrics, including fingerprints and a photograph.
- Wait for Processing: Skilled Worker visa processing typically takes three weeks for overseas applications or eight weeks for in-country applications.
Upon approval, you’ll receive your visa, allowing you to start working in the UK for your sponsoring employer.
8. Skilled Worker Visa Fees
Visa fees for the Skilled Worker visa vary depending on job type and duration:
- Standard Fee: £610 for up to three years or £1,220 for more than three years.
- Shortage Occupation Fee: £464 for up to three years or £928 for more than three years.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year of stay.
These fees may be paid by the applicant or reimbursed by some employers as part of a relocation package.
9. Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Skilled Worker visa provides a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of continuous residence.
- Residency Requirement: Holders must meet the five-year residency requirement and continue working in a skilled role.
- Good Character and Financial Stability: Applicants must meet good character requirements and not have relied on public funds.
- English and Life in the UK Test: ILR applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and pass the Life in the UK test.
Once granted ILR, individuals can live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions and eventually apply for British citizenship.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I switch employers on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, but you’ll need a new CoS from the new employer and must apply for a new Skilled Worker visa.
2. How long does the Skilled Worker visa last?
The visa is typically valid for up to five years, with the possibility of renewal.
3. Can my family join me on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, dependents (spouse and children under 18) can apply to join or accompany you, with each dependent subject to visa fees and the health surcharge.
4. Do I need to maintain my salary level to stay eligible?
Yes, your salary must continue to meet the minimum threshold to retain eligibility.
5. Can I study while on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, Skilled Worker visa holders can study in the UK, though their primary purpose must remain their employment.
6. Does the Skilled Worker visa lead to citizenship?
Yes, after five years on ILR, you may apply for British citizenship if you meet residency and good character requirements.