Skilled worker visa
A skilled worker visa allows an individual to work in specific skilled jobs that are listed as eligible on the UK government website. These jobs must be offered by employers who are sponsored by the Home Office to employ foreign workers.
How long can I stay in the UK on a skilled worker visa?
Skilled worker visas are typically valid for up to 5 years and 14 days, or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus 1 month, whichever is shorter.
What are the eligibility requirements?
The main eligibility requirements for a skilled worker visa are:
- A job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsorship license. The job offered must be at or above a certain skill level.
- The employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to the individual.
- The job must pay a minimum salary threshold or the “going rate” for the profession, whichever is higher. There are certain circumstances where it might be able to “trade” points on specific characteristics against the salary.
- Prove knowledge of the English language at level B1 or above.
- Unless exempted, you must show you have enough money to support yourself for an initial period in the UK.
- You will need to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of the application. The sponsoring organisation must pay an Immigration Skills Charge.
What are the conditions of the visa if granted?
If you are successful in being granted a visa, you must only work in the job described in the Certificate of Sponsorship. The skilled worker visa does not allow access to public funds.
You may be able to perform a second job in certain circumstances, and conduct voluntary work, study (if it doesn’t interfere with the job). You can travel abroad and return to the UK. Your lawyer can advise you on these matters when you are granted a visa.
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Skilled worker visa FAQs
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Can I bring my family with me?
A Skilled Worker visa allows you to bring your dependents, including your partner (spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner that you’ve been in a relationship akin to marriage with for at least 2 years) and any children under 18 years. Each dependent requires their own visa application and must meet certain requirements.
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Can I switch to a different type of visa?
In most cases, you can switch from a Skilled Worker visa to another visa while in the UK if you meet the eligibility requirements and apply before your current visa expires. Some visas, like Visitor visas, are not eligible for switching. As rules may change, always seek legal advice before making the switch.
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What happens if my job ends while I am on.a work visa?
If your job ends (due to redundancy, resignation, or termination), your employer must inform the Home Office. The Home Office may curtail or shorten your visa and send you a letter with the new expiry date. You usually have a grace period to find a new job with a licensed sponsor and apply for a new Skilled Worker visa or switch to another eligible visa. If unable to find a job or switch visa, you must leave the UK by the curtailment notice date. Failure to comply can impact future returns. Note that processes and consequences vary for other work visas.
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