What is the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Your Guide to the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK: Meeting Eligibility and Navigating Compliance
The Skilled Worker Visa in the UK remains a key immigration route for international professionals looking to contribute their expertise to the UK's dynamic workforce. It enables individuals to live and work in the UK in skilled roles while meeting stringent eligibility criteria. This guide provides the latest updates, including salary thresholds, rule changes, and practical steps for applicants and their employers.
The UK Skilled Worker Visa
The UK Skilled Worker Visa connects global talent with opportunities in the UK, allowing qualified professionals to work in eligible occupations across various sectors. It is available to individuals from outside the UK and Ireland who a licensed UK employer has offered a job. The organisation must apply for a Home Office Sponsorship Licence to become a licensed employer.
Eligibility Criteria of the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
1. Job Types and UK Skilled Worker Salary Requirements
The Skilled Worker Visa covers a range of occupations outlined in the Appendix Skilled Occupations list. Meeting the salary threshold is an important eligibility factor.
- General Minimum Salary Threshold: £41,700 per year .
- Job-Specific Thresholds: Certain roles have higher "going rates" based on their Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes. Applicants must meet these rates if they exceed the general threshold.
- Reduced Salary for Roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL): Occupations on the ISL are eligible for a lower salary threshold. Applicants in these roles must meet a minimum of £37,500 per year or 80% of the SOC code’s going rate, whichever is higher.
- New Entrants: Individuals at the beginning of their careers, such as those under 26 years old, students switching from a study visa, or those in PhD-level roles, must meet a minimum salary threshold of £33,400 annually or 70% of the SOC code’s going rate, whichever is higher.
2. Skilled Worker English Language Requirement
UK Skilled Worker visa applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
- Passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.
- Having a degree taught in English (verified by Ecctis if obtained outside the UK).
- Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
Application Process for the Skilled Worker Visa
Step 1: Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Applicants must have a job offer from a licensed UK employer who will issue a CoS for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Key documents include:
- A valid passport.
- CoS reference number.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Financial evidence if the employer does not certify maintenance on the CoS.
Step 3: Complete the Online Visa Application
Skilled Worker applications should be submitted within three months of receiving the CoS.
Step 4: Pay the Required Visa Fees
- Application Fee:
- £769 for up to three years.
- £1,519 for more than three years.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year for adults, £776 per year for children under 18.
Step 5: Biometric Information
Visa applicants must attend a biometric appointment or use the Home Office ID Check App for verification.
Step 6: Await a Decision
Skilled Worker visa application decisions typically take three weeks for applications outside the UK.
Benefits and Limitations of the UK Skilled Worker Visa
Benefits of the Skilled Worker in the UK:
- Route to settlement: After five years, applicants can usually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- Dependants can accompany the main applicant and work or study in the UK.
Limitations of the UK Skilled Worker Visa:
- Skilled Worker visa holders in the UK are tied to their sponsoring employer. Changes in job roles may require a new application.
- Non-compliance with Home Office rules can result in visa refusal or revocation.
The Temporary Shortage Occupation List
From 22 July 2025, the UK introduced a new Temporary Shortage Occupation List. This list includes roles that do not meet the usual Skilled Worker skill threshold (RQF Level 6) but are still eligible for sponsorship due to short-term labour needs.
Unlike roles on the Immigration Salary List, jobs on the Temporary Shortage List:
- Do not benefit from reduced salary thresholds
- Do not allow dependants to join the main applicant
- Do not lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
- Are only included on the list on a time-limited and conditional basis, subject to ongoing review
How can Immtell Help?
Navigating the Skilled Worker Visa process can be complex. At Immtell, we specialise in guiding individuals and employers through every stage, from obtaining a Home Office Sponsor Licence to ensuring a compliant and successful visa application.
Get Expert Help with Your Skilled Worker Visa
Let Immtell handle the complexities of your Skilled Worker Visa application. From navigating salary thresholds to ensuring compliance, we provide personalised guidance tailored to your needs. Contact us today and take the first step towards your UK work journey.
Let Immtell handle the complexities of your Skilled Worker Visa application. From navigating salary thresholds to ensuring compliance, we provide personalised guidance tailored to your needs. Contact us today and take the first step towards your UK work journey.
Further Reading
UK Skilled Worker Dependant Visa Process
Building a Future Together: Navigating the UK Skilled Worker Dependant Visa Process
How to Get a Skilled Worker Visa UK
Updated Guide to Getting a Skilled Worker Visa for the UK (2025)
Immigration Skills Charge: A Guide for Employers
Everything Employers Need to Know about the UK Immigration Skills Charge in 2025
What is the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Your Guide to the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK: Meeting Eligibility and Navigating Compliance
Guide to Successfully Obtaining a UK Work Visa in 2025
How to Obtain a Work Visa for the UK in 2025
The UK Immigration Process: A Guide for Newcomers
Your Essential Guide to Navigating the UK Immigration Process with Confidence
