How to Get a Work Visa in the UK
Updated Guide to Getting a Work Visa for the UK (2025)
The UK continues to be a top destination for global talent, offering a variety of visa routes for individuals seeking employment, adventure, or business opportunities. With recent updates to visa rules and thresholds, understanding the process is more important than ever. This guide provides an overview of the UK’s work visa options, updated for 2025, to help you choose the best route for your needs.
UK Work Visas Options
The UK offers several work visa categories, each tailored to specific circumstances. Whether you’re a skilled professional, healthcare worker, young adventurer, or business professional, there’s a visa to match your aspirations.
Skilled Worker Visa
The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals with a confirmed job offer from a UK-based employer approved by the Home Office to work in eligible skilled roles. This visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa.
Eligibility
- A job offer in a role at RQF Level 6 (bachelor degree equivalent) or higher.
- A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed sponsor.
- Salary thresholds:
- General threshold: £41,700 per year.
- Immigration Salary List (ISL) roles: £33,400 per year.
- New entrant roles: £33,400 per year.
- English language proficiency (e.g., passing a Secure English Language Test or holding a degree taught in English).
Global Business Mobility Visas
The UK Global Business Mobility visas cater to business professionals transferring to the UK or expanding operations.
Types of Global Business Mobility Visas
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: For long-term assignments.
- Minimum salary: £52,500 per year or £23.50/hour.
- UK Expansion Worker Visa: For senior staff establishing a UK presence.
- Salary threshold: £52,500 per year.
- Graduate Trainee Visa: For those undergoing structured graduate programs.
- Salary threshold: £27,300 per year.
- Service Supplier Visa: For contractual service providers.
- Secondment Worker Visa: For workers seconded to the UK as part of high-value contracts.
Temporary Work Visas
Temporary work visas (previously Tier 5) are ideal for short-term roles.
Key Categories
- Creative and Sporting Visa: For artists, performers, and athletes.
- Charity Worker Visa: For unpaid voluntary work.
- Religious Worker Visa: For clergy and religious roles.
- Government Authorised Exchange Visa: For training, research, or work experience.
- International Agreement Visa: For roles covered by international law.
These visas typically have shorter durations and specific conditions.
Personal Capacity Visas
UK Ancestry Visa
The UK Ancestry visa is available to Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent.
- Grants permission to work, study, or settle in the UK.
- Requires proof of ancestry and financial self-sufficiency.
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
The UK Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is for individuals aged 18-30 (35 for some countries) from eligible countries.
- Valid for up to 2 years (3 years for certain countries).
- Offers flexibility to work and explore the UK with minimal restrictions.UK Work
UK Work Visa Application Process
- Choose the Right Visa: Match your circumstances with the appropriate visa category.
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Passport or travel document.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (if applicable).
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Financial maintenance evidence (unless exempt).
- Submit the Online Application: Apply via the UKVI portal.
- Pay Fees:
- Skilled Worker Visa fees: £769 to £1,751 (depending on duration, role and place of application).
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year for adults, £776 for children.
- Provide Biometrics: Attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or use the Home Office app.
- Wait for a Decision: Processing times vary:
- Standard: 3 weeks outside the UK, 8 weeks inside.
- Priority services available in some locations for faster decisions.
Common Challenges
- Salary Thresholds: Ensure your job meets both the general salary and the “going rate” for your role.
- Document Accuracy: Missing or incorrect documents can delay processing.
- Eligibility Criteria: Be sure to meet all specific visa requirements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right UK work visa is crucial for your career goals. Each visa route has unique requirements, and staying informed about the latest rules, including salary thresholds and Immigration Salary List updates, is vital.
Let’s Make Your UK Work Journey a Reality
Immtell’s experts are here to guide you through every step of your UK work visa application. Contact us today for personalised support.
Immtell’s experts are here to guide you through every step of your UK work visa application. Contact us today for personalised support.
Further Reading
Self Sponsorship Visa UK
Mastering the UK Self Sponsorship Visa Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide
UK Business Residency: UK Self-Sponsorship and Expansion Worker Visas
A Guide to UK Business Residency. Leverage the UK Self-Sponsored and Expansion Worker Visas in 2025
How to Get a Skilled Worker Visa UK
Updated Guide to Getting a Skilled Worker Visa for the UK (2025)
The UK Immigration Process: A Guide for Newcomers
Your Essential Guide to Navigating the UK Immigration Process with Confidence
UK Expansion Worker Visa - Global Business Mobility Visa
Secure a UK Global Business Mobility Visa with the UK Expansion Worker Visa Sub-Category
