How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker Visa provides a route for individuals with professional skills to work and live in the United Kingdom on a long-term basis. It has replaced the previous Tier 2 (General) Visa and is designed to support employers in filling skilled roles with qualified candidates from outside the UK. Applying for this visa requires thorough preparation, accurate documentation and a clear understanding of the eligibility requirements.

This comprehensive guide outlines how to apply effectively, ensuring you meet all the necessary criteria and maximise your chances of approval.

Understanding the UK Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa allows eligible applicants to work in the UK for an approved employer who holds a valid Sponsor Licence. The role must be deemed suitable under the UK’s Skilled Occupation List, and your employer must assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) confirming job details, salary and sponsorship status.

This visa permits you to:

• Work for your sponsored employer

• Live in the UK for up to 5 years initially

• Bring eligible dependants to the UK

• Travel freely in and out of the country

• Apply for settlement after 5 continuous years

Key Eligibility Requirements

1. Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

Your employer must be authorised by the Home Office. The job must be genuine and suitable for the Skilled Worker route.

2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

The employer assigns you a CoS reference number, which confirms role, salary and intended duration of employment.

3. Salary Threshold

Your salary must meet at least:

• The general threshold (typically £38,700), or

• The going rate for your specific occupation
  (whichever is higher or applicable under concessions such as shortage occupations)

4. English Language Requirement

Minimum CEFR Level B1 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, proven via:

• Approved test

• Equivalent English-taught qualification

• Citizenship from an eligible English-speaking country

5. Proof of Financial Support

Unless your employer certifies maintenance, you must show £1,270 for living costs.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Check Your Job is Eligible

Confirm that your job title matches the official SOC Occupation Code and is listed as a skilled occupation.

Step 2: Receive Your Certificate of Sponsorship

Ensure the CoS details are accurate and consistent with your employment contract.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Documents may include:

• Passport

• CoS number

• Proof of English language ability

• Bank statements (if needed)

• TB test certificate (if required)

• Qualifications or training certificates (if relevant)

Step 4: Submit Online Application

Use the official UK Government visa application platform. Information must match your documents exactly.

Step 5: Pay Fees

You must pay:

• Visa application fee

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Step 6: Biometric Appointment

Attend your local Visa Application Centre for fingerprints and photograph.

Step 7: Visa Decision

Processing is usually:

• 3 weeks (outside UK applications)

• 8 weeks (inside UK applications)

Bringing Your Dependants

Dependants include:

• Husband, wife, or unmarried partner

• Children under 18 (or over 18 already in the UK under your visa)

Each dependant must submit their own visa application.

Path to Settlement

After 5 years, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). You must:

• Remain employed by a sponsoring employer

• Meet salary thresholds

• Pass the Life in the UK Test

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. How long can I stay in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa?

You can stay for up to 5 years per grant and then extend or apply for settlement if eligible.

2. Can I change jobs while holding a Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, but your new employer must also hold a Sponsor Licence, and you must apply for a new visa before starting the new role.

3. What happens if my employment ends?

You generally have 60 days to either:

• Find a new sponsoring employer, or

• Leave the UK

4. Do I need a degree to qualify for this visa?

Not necessarily. What matters most is that your job meets the skill level requirements and is listed as eligible.

5. Can I bring my family to the UK under this visa?

Yes, dependants can join you if you meet financial requirements and provide supporting documents.

Need Professional Assistance? Contact Temple Gate Solicitors

Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa can be complex, and mistakes may lead to delays or refusal. Our immigration specialists at Temple Gate Solicitors are here to guide you through every step with personalised, expert support.

Get in Touch Today

📍 Temple Gate Solicitors
📞 Call us: +44 (0) 207 183 8043
📧 Email: info@templegatesolicitors.com
🌐 Visit: www.templegatesolicitors.com