For skilled professionals seeking employment in the United Kingdom, the UK work visa provides a pathway to live and work in one of the world’s largest economies. The UK has several visa options tailored for different types of work and qualifications. This guide covers the main types of UK work visas, eligibility requirements, and application process to help you understand your options.
1. Types of UK Work Visas
The UK offers multiple types of work visas under the points-based immigration system. Here are some of the most common work visas:
A. Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is the primary work visa for skilled professionals with a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
- Eligibility: Requires a job offer from a UK employer for an eligible role.
- Salary Requirement: The minimum salary is usually £26,500 or the “going rate” for the job, whichever is higher.
- English Language Requirement: Proficiency in English at B1 level or higher.
B. Health and Care Worker Visa
The Health and Care Worker Visa is for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and social care workers, with a job offer from the NHS or an approved organization.
- Eligibility: Must work in an eligible healthcare role and have a valid job offer from a UK employer in the healthcare sector.
- Salary Requirement: Minimum salary requirements apply, but are often lower for certain healthcare roles.
C. Global Business Mobility Visa
The Global Business Mobility Visa allows foreign employees of multinational companies to work temporarily in the UK. This category includes several sub-categories:
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: For senior managers or specialists transferring to a UK branch.
- Graduate Trainee Visa: For graduate trainees on a structured training program.
D. Graduate Visa
The Graduate Visa is available to international students who have completed an eligible course in the UK, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
- Eligibility: Must have successfully completed a degree from a recognized UK institution.
- Validity: Allows graduates to stay for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates) to seek employment.
E. Start-up and Innovator Visas
For individuals looking to start or run an innovative business in the UK, the Start-up Visa and Innovator Visa allow eligible entrepreneurs to set up a business.
- Start-up Visa: For those who have an innovative business idea endorsed by an approved body.
- Innovator Visa: For experienced entrepreneurs with investment funding and an innovative business plan.
2. Eligibility Requirements for UK Work Visas
Eligibility requirements vary by visa type, but here are some of the core requirements:
- Job Offer from a UK Employer: Most work visas require a valid job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
- Salary Threshold: The job must meet a minimum salary threshold, which varies by role and visa type.
- English Language Proficiency: Most applicants need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically at B1 level or higher.
- Sponsorship Certificate: The UK employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) confirming the applicant’s job details, salary, and eligibility.
3. Required Documents for UK Work Visa Applications
While the exact documents depend on the visa type, here are some commonly required documents:
- Valid Passport: A passport valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Provided by your employer, outlining your job and salary.
- Proof of Qualifications: Degree certificates or relevant work experience documents, if applicable.
- English Language Proof: Test results (e.g., IELTS) or proof of studies in English if required.
- Financial Evidence: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself unless the employer provides this (minimum £1,270 if self-funded).
- TB Test Results: Required if you are from a country where a TB test is mandatory.
4. Application Process for a UK Work Visa
The UK work visa application process involves a series of steps, usually completed online.
Step 1: Confirm Your Visa Type
Choose the right visa type based on your job offer, qualifications, and duration of stay in the UK.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documentation
Gather all necessary documents, such as your Certificate of Sponsorship, passport, proof of qualifications, and financial evidence.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Complete the visa application on the official UK government website. Enter accurate details as they appear on your documents.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Pay the visa application fee, which varies by visa type and duration. Most applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Step 5: Schedule a Biometric Appointment
Applicants outside the UK will need to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center to submit fingerprints and a photograph. Some applicants can verify their identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app, depending on nationality and visa type.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
The processing time for work visas is generally three weeks for applications outside the UK and up to eight weeks for applications from within the UK. Expedited processing options may be available for an additional fee.
5. Costs for UK Work Visa Applications
The cost of a UK work visa varies by visa type and duration. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
- Skilled Worker Visa: £625–£1,423, depending on the length of stay.
- Health and Care Worker Visa: £232–£464.
- Global Business Mobility Visa: Typically ranges from £259 to £719.
- Graduate Visa: £715.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year (reduced to £470 per year for students and certain healthcare workers).
Note: Fees may change, so it’s recommended to check the latest fee structure on the UK government website.
6. Bringing Family Members on a UK Work Visa
Most UK work visas allow holders to bring dependents, including a spouse or partner and children under 18. Family members must apply for a dependent visa and provide documents proving their relationship to the main applicant. Each dependent must also pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I switch employers on a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, but your new employer must issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship, and you must apply to update your visa with the new job details.
2. Can I apply for permanent residency on a UK work visa?
Yes, many work visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, offer a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of continuous residence in the UK.
3. Can I work on a UK work visa while waiting for my visa decision?
No, you must wait until your visa is granted before starting work in the UK.
4. How long can I stay in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is initially granted for up to five years, with the possibility of renewal and eligibility for ILR after five years.
5. Can I work for multiple employers on a UK work visa?
Generally, no. Most work visas are specific to one employer. However, you may be able to work a second job in specific circumstances, subject to conditions.
6. Is there an age limit for UK work visas?
No, there is no age limit for UK work visas, though applicants must meet the eligibility requirements and visa conditions.