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The UK Skilled Worker visa allows non-UK nationals to live and work in the United Kingdom in an eligible skilled role with an approved UK employer. It is the UK’s primary long-term sponsored work visa route and can lead to settlement after five years. Here are some of the most important qualifying requirements for global mobility professionals to know.
- Eligible job and skill level
The role must be on the Home Office list of eligible Skilled Worker occupations and normally be skilled to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 6, or graduate level and above. Lower-skilled roles (RQF Levels 3–5) may only be sponsored if they are included on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List.
- Salary requirement
Applicants must meet both the general salary threshold and the occupation-specific going rate, whichever is higher. The current general threshold for most new Skilled Worker applications is £41,700 per year.
Reduced salary thresholds may apply in limited circumstances, including for new entrants to the labor market, certain PhD-level roles, and Health and Care Worker roles subject to national pay scales. Salary must be genuine, guaranteed, and paid through PAYE.
- English language requirement
Applicants must demonstrate English language ability at CEFR Level B2 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. This can be met by passing an approved English language test or holding a recognized degree taught in English. Nationals of majority English-speaking countries are exempt.
- Visa length, dependents and settlement
The Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to five years at a time. This is frequently split into a three-year initial visa with a two-year extension. Partners and dependent children may apply to accompany or join the main applicant. After five years of continuous qualifying residence, applicants may become eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), subject to meeting the relevant requirements.
- Application method
Applications are made online, either from outside the UK or from within the UK where the applicant is eligible to extend or switch status. Applicants must prove their identity, submit supporting documents, and attend a biometric appointment where required.
Skilled Worker visas can be viewed via the applicant’s UK Immigration Account where they can generate a Right to Work share code that must be shown to their sponsor to confirm their ability to work in the UK. There is no physical document with this application.
If you require assistance with or have questions about using the UK Skilled Worker Visa as a sponsoring employer, please feel free to reach out to our internal immigration team.
