United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · work sponsored
Skilled Worker visa
Work visa for non-UK workers with a job offer from a Home Office–licensed sponsor in an eligible occupation.
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Overview
The Skilled Worker visa is the UK's primary sponsored work route, replacing Tier 2 (General) in 2020. It requires a job offer from a Home Office–licensed sponsor, an occupation at RQF 3 or above, English-language proficiency, and salary at or above the route-specific thresholds. The salary floor was raised substantially in April 2024 and further refinements followed in 2025.
Processing time
Decisions typically issued in 3–8 weeks from outside the UK under standard processing. Priority and super-priority services are available at additional fee.
See source window: 2 weeks – 3 weeks →Government fees
Application fee (£719–£1,639 depending on duration and occupation list status), Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year), plus sponsor's Certificate of Sponsorship fee. Always confirm current fees on GOV.UK.
Typical duration
Up to 5 years on initial grant, extendable; leads to settlement after continuous residence.
Additional sources
Eligibility
Typical criteria
A job offer from a Home Office–licensed sponsor holding a valid sponsor licence covering the occupation.
A Certificate of Sponsorship issued by the sponsor.
An eligible occupation at RQF Level 3 or above.
Salary at or above both the general threshold and the occupation-specific "going rate". Thresholds change regularly — confirm on GOV.UK.
English language at CEFR Level B1 or above in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Common blockers
Employer does not hold a sponsor licence, or its licence does not cover the occupation.
Salary below both the general threshold and the going rate for the SOC code.
Occupation below RQF Level 3, unless a specific concession applies.
Adverse immigration history or unspent criminal convictions within the rules' exclusion categories.
Typical evidence
Certificate of Sponsorship reference number from a licensed sponsor.
Proof of English-language ability (approved SELT, UK degree, or recognised nationality exemption).
Passport or equivalent travel document.
TB test certificate (applicants from specified countries).
Criminal record certificate for certain occupations (e.g. roles with children).
Application pathway
Step 1
Find a licensed sponsor
Apply for roles at UK employers on the Register of Licensed Sponsors. Your offer must meet skill and salary thresholds.
Step 2
Receive Certificate of Sponsorship
The sponsor assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) quoting the role, salary, and occupation code.
Step 3
Prepare English and supporting documents
Sit a Secure English Language Test or confirm your degree or nationality exemption. Gather passport, TB test if applicable, and financial evidence if not exempt.
Step 4
Submit online application and pay fees
Complete the online application within 3 months of CoS assignment. Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Step 5
Biometrics and decision
Book a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre abroad or use the UK Immigration ID Check app where eligible. Standard decisions typically arrive in 3–8 weeks.
Step 6
Enter the UK and begin work
After approval, enter the UK within the vignette validity window. Your biometric residence permit (or eVisa) will cover the rest of your permission.
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Frequently asked questions
Can a Skilled Worker visa lead to permanent settlement in the UK?
Yes. Skilled Worker visa holders can typically apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years of continuous lawful residence, subject to meeting the salary, absence, and English and Life in the UK requirements in force at the time.
Can dependants join a Skilled Worker visa holder?
Partners and children under 18 can usually apply as dependants on the same visa, although dependant rights have been narrowed for some care-sector routes. Each dependant pays their own application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Does a Skilled Worker visa require a specific salary?
Yes. Applicants must meet both a general salary threshold and the occupation-specific going rate. These thresholds change frequently — most recently in Spring 2024 and again in 2025 — so always verify the current figures on GOV.UK before applying.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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