Skilled Worker Visa (UK)

This was previously called the Tier 2 (General) work visa. In the UK, skilled worker jobs are those that require A-levels, Scottish Highers, or their technical equivalents. These are advanced technical and service-based positions.

Industries that typically employ skilled workers include:

• Health
• Finance
• Professional, technical or scientific services
• Education
• IT

A Skilled Worker Visa can last for up to 5 years. After the validity period expires, you will need to update or extend your visa. You must update your visa if you have changed your job or employer.

To be qualified, a worker should meet the following criteria:

• Work for a UK company that's approved by the Home Office (i.e. has a sponsor licence)
• Given a certificate of sponsorship from your employer
• With a confirmed job offer
  • The job is part of the eligible occupations list
    • Ask your employer for your job’s 4-digit occupation code. You can also search for your job in the Office for National Statistics (ONS) occupation coding tool.
    • The job must also meet the required skill level of RQF 3 or above.
• Will be paid a minimum salary
  • £25,600 per year or £10.10 per hour, or the "going rate" for the work your job entails
• Sufficient knowledge of the English language
  • You must have at least a level B1 grade on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale to be qualified for a Skilled Worker’s visa.
  • You can also take and pass a Secure English Language test (SELT).
• Have at least 70 points in the points-based immigration system criteria.

Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa

1. Once your employer issues your certificate of sponsorship, make sure to apply for a visa for up to 3 months from the day you start working in the UK. This will also be detailed in your certificate of sponsorship.

2. Prepare the following documents:
   1. Certificate of sponsorship reference number (provided by the employer)
   2. Passport
   3. Proof of knowledge of English
   4. Job title and annual salary
   5. Job occupation code
   6. Employer name and sponsor license number
   7. Additional documents that may be requested:
      1. Financial evidence
      2. You will need to have at least £1,270 in your personal bank account, and the amount should be consistent for at least 28 days in a row.
      3. Show proof through bank statements
      4. Tuberculosis test for certain countries
      5. Criminal record certificate
      6. ATAS certificate

3. Apply online through this platform.

4. Pay the necessary fees:
   1. Application fee:
      1. £625 if you’re working for up to 3 years.
      2. £1,235 if you’re working for more than three years
   2. If your work is part of the Shortage Occupation List you can pay a lower fee:
      1. £479 if you’re working up to 3 years
      2. £943 if you’re working for more than three years
   3. Healthcare surcharge:
      1. About £624 per year. You can check the actual amount here.

Processing takes up to 3 weeks if you're located outside the UK. Once you’ve been issued a visa, you can study, do voluntary work or take on additional work if circumstances require it.

Global Talent Visa

• For exceptional talent in the fields of digital technology, academia or research, arts and culture
• Those who successfully have endorsements from the following:
  • The Royal Society
  • The Royal Academy of Engineering
  • The British Academy
  • UK Research and Innovation
  • Tech Nation
  • Arts Council England
• Winner of an eligible award