Immigration law
Skilled Worker Visa
Sponsored work in the UK, built on an application that leaves nothing for a caseworker to doubt.
Since 22 July 2025 most new roles must be at degree level (RQF 6) and pay at least £41,700. Since 8 January 2026 new applicants need English at B2. Rules checked October 2026.
Is this you?
Who this is for
- You have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence
- You are switching from a Student or Graduate visa into work
- You are changing employer or extending your current permission
- You want your partner and children to join you as dependants
What the rules require
- Sponsored job
- A Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer, for a role on the eligible occupations list.
- Skill level
- Usually degree level (RQF 6) for new applicants since 22 July 2025, with limited exceptions.
- Salary
- £41,700 a year or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher. Lower rates can apply to new entrants and some listed roles.
- English
- B2 for new applicants since 8 January 2026. People first granted at B1 can usually extend at B1.
- Funds
- £1,270 held for 28 days, unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance.
A summary, not legal advice. The Immigration Rules change often; we confirm what applies on your application date.
Free first step
10 minutes with a solicitor about your skilled worker visa matter.
Prepare
Your document checklist
Tick off what you already have. Bring the rest to mind before your consultation, and we'll tell you what really matters for your case.
0 of 9 ready
A general guide. Your solicitor confirms exactly what your case needs. Your ticks are saved on this device only.
The process
How it works
- 1Free consultationWe check the role, salary and your history against the current rules.
- 2CoS checkWe review the Certificate of Sponsorship with you before it is assigned. Errors here cause refusals.
- 3Evidence packWe prepare the application, document index and any covering representations.
- 4Submit and biometricsOnline application, then biometrics or the ID check app.
- 5DecisionThe Home Office aims for about 3 weeks from outside the UK and 8 weeks from inside.
Fixed.
How our fees work
After your free consultation we quote a fixed fee in writing, covering exactly what we will do. Home Office fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge are paid separately to the government, and we tell you the current amounts before you commit.
Free
Your first 10 minutes with a solicitor.
In writing
A fixed fee for the agreed work, before anything starts.
No surprises
Government fees quoted up front and paid to the Home Office.
FAQs
Skilled Worker Visa: your questions
Still unsure? A ten-minute call usually settles it.
What is the salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa?
For applications made on or after 22 July 2025, the general threshold is £41,700 a year, or the going rate for your occupation if that is higher. Lower rates can apply to new entrants and some roles on the Immigration Salary List. Only guaranteed basic pay counts. We confirm the figure that applies on your application date.
Can my partner and children come with me?
Usually, yes, as dependants with the right to work and study. The main exception is care workers and senior care workers, who have not been able to bring dependants on applications made since 11 March 2024.
How long is the visa granted for, and does it lead to settlement?
Up to 5 years at a time, tied to your Certificate of Sponsorship. Settlement is currently possible after 5 years, but the government has proposed longer 'earned settlement' periods. As of October 2026 these are not yet in the Immigration Rules. We will tell you how any change affects you.
What happens if I lose my job?
Your sponsor must report it, and the Home Office may shorten your permission, normally to 60 days. In that window you can find a new sponsor, switch route, or prepare to leave. Talk to us straight away.