Introduction
The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most popular visa routes for individuals looking to live and work in the UK. Introduced as part of the UK’s post-Brexit immigration system, the Skilled Worker Visa allows skilled workers from around the world to move to the UK and fill roles that are in demand. This visa also provides a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), making it an attractive option for those looking to settle permanently in the UK.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the eligibility criteria, application process, required documentation, and other key information needed to successfully apply for a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK.
1. What Is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) Visa as part of the UK’s new points-based immigration system. It allows individuals with a job offer from a UK employer to live and work in the UK.
The visa is intended for people who can fill roles that require certain skills, qualifications, or experience. Key features of the visa include:
- Ability to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years.
- Option to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of continuous residence.
- Eligibility to bring dependents (partner and children) to the UK.
2. Who Can Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa?
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet several eligibility criteria set by the UK government. These include having a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid Sponsor Licence and meeting the points requirement.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Job Offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer. The job must be on the list of eligible occupations that require specific skills.
- Sponsorship: Your employer must hold a valid Sponsor Licence and provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The CoS is an electronic record confirming your job details, such as salary and job title.
- Skill Level: The job offer must be for a position that is at or above RQF level 3 (A-level equivalent). Jobs in sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and education are often eligible.
- Salary Requirement: You must meet the minimum salary threshold, which is generally £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour. However, certain roles, especially those on the Shortage Occupation List, may have different salary requirements.
- English Language Requirement: You must demonstrate proficiency in English. This can be done by:
- Passing an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS).
- Holding a degree taught in English or being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
- Financial Requirements: You must show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself when you first arrive in the UK. This typically means having at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 days before applying, unless your employer covers this cost.
3. How Does the Points System Work?
The Skilled Worker Visa operates under the UK’s points-based immigration system. To be eligible for the visa, applicants must score a total of 70 points. Points are awarded based on different criteria, including having a job offer, salary level, and meeting the English language requirement.
How Points Are Awarded:
- Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: 20 points
- Job at the Required Skill Level: 20 points
- English Language Proficiency: 10 points
- Salary of £26,200 or above: 20 points
Points can also be earned for:
- Jobs on the Shortage Occupation List: 20 points
- PhD-level roles related to your field: 10 or 20 points, depending on the subject.
Even if you don’t meet the salary threshold of £26,200, you may still qualify if your job is in a shortage occupation or if you hold a PhD in a relevant field.
4. How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa
Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa involves several steps, from obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer to submitting your visa application online.
1. Get a Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must first provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which contains details about your job, including your salary, job title, and employment start date.
2. Complete the Online Visa Application
Once you have your CoS, you can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa online through the UK government’s visa application portal. You will need to submit:
- Personal information (passport details, address).
- Job details from the CoS.
- Evidence of your English proficiency.
- Proof of funds to support yourself if your employer isn’t covering this cost.
3. Pay the Visa Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The cost of applying for a Skilled Worker Visa varies depending on how long you intend to stay in the UK. As of 2024, the visa fees are:
- £625 if you’re staying for up to 3 years.
- £1,235 if you’re staying for more than 3 years. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The IHS costs £624 per year.
4. Provide Biometric Information
As part of your application, you will need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph). This can be done at a Visa Application Centre in your home country or through the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
5. Wait for a Decision
Visa processing times can vary, but most applicants receive a decision within 3 weeks if they are applying from outside the UK. If you need a faster decision, some countries offer a priority service for an additional fee, which provides a decision within 5 working days.
5. Life in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa
Once your Skilled Worker Visa is granted, you’ll be able to live and work in the UK. You’ll also have several key rights and responsibilities:
1. Working in the UK
You are only permitted to work for the employer who sponsored your visa. If you change jobs or employers, you will need to apply for a new visa or get permission to switch roles.
2. Bringing Family Members
You can bring your partner and children with you to the UK, but they must apply for dependent visas and meet specific requirements. Each family member must pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
3. Access to Healthcare
As a Skilled Worker Visa holder, you will have access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), provided you have paid the IHS as part of your visa application.
6. Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After living in the UK for 5 continuous years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR allows you to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions and is a key step toward British citizenship.
Requirements for ILR:
- You must have lived in the UK for 5 continuous years.
- You must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period.
- You must meet the English language and Life in the UK test requirements.
Conclusion: The Skilled Worker Visa as a Pathway to a New Life in the UK
The Skilled Worker Visa offers a valuable opportunity for skilled individuals to live and work in the UK, with the potential to settle permanently. By understanding the eligibility requirements, navigating the application process, and planning for your future in the UK, you can make the most of this visa route.
Whether you’re looking for new career opportunities or hoping to make the UK your long-term home, the Skilled Worker Visa provides a clear pathway to achieve your goals.