Skilled Worker UK Visa: All You Need to Know

Check the application process for skilled work visa in UK, its visa requirements and other essential details.
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3 min
30-March-2024

The United Kingdom has long stood as a beacon of opportunity for skilled professionals seeking to broaden their horizons and contribute their expertise to a vibrant and diverse workforce. For those embarking on this journey, the skilled worker visa, formerly known as the tier 2 visa, serves as the gateway to realising their aspirations in the UK job market.

The skilled worker visa is designed to enable employers in the UK to recruit skilled workers from overseas to fill specific job roles that cannot be filled by settled workers. This visa category is open to individuals with a confirmed job offer from a UK employer and who meet certain eligibility criteria.

What is the skilled worker visa?

The skilled worker visa allows individuals from outside the EEA (European Economic Area) and Switzerland to take up employment in the UK with an approved employer, who is on the UK tier 2 sponsor list. This visa has replaced the tier 2 (General) work visa, aligning with the UK's new points-based immigration system, which emphasises the skills and salaries of applicants rather than their nationality.

What are the skilled worker visa requirements?

Applicants must secure a job offer from an employer listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor list before applying.

Job offer from an approved employer: You must have a job offer from an employer listed on the UK tier 2 sponsor list. The employer must be a Home Office licenced sponsor, able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the role you are applying for.

Appropriate skill level: The job offer must be at or above the minimum skill level of RQF3 (equivalent to A level). This ensures the role is deemed suitable for a skilled worker visa and matches the applicant's qualifications and experience.

Salary threshold: The salary for your job offer must meet the general salary threshold or the ‘going rate’ for your occupation, whichever is higher. As of now, the salary must be at least £25,600 (approx. Rs. 27 lakh) per year or the specific salary requirement for your job type, ensuring it aligns with the standard rates in the UK for that profession.

English language proficiency: Applicants must prove their knowledge of English, meeting at least level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. This can be demonstrated through a variety of means, such as academic qualifications, approved English language tests, or being a national of an English-speaking country.

Financial requirement: Applicants must show they can financially support themselves upon arrival in the UK. This typically involves having at least £1,270 (approx. Rs. 1.3 lakh) available funds to prove you can support yourself unless your sponsor can support you for your first month in the UK (certified on the CoS).

Criminal record certificate: For certain jobs, especially those involving working with vulnerable groups, you may need to provide a criminal record certificate from any country you lived in for 12 months or more over the last 10 years.

How to apply for a skilled worker visa?

The application process for a skilled worker visa involves several steps:

  • Job offer: Secure a job offer from a UK employer who is willing to sponsor your visa application.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship: The employer must apply for and obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) for the applicant.
  • Online application: Complete the online visa application form, providing all required documentation and information.
  • Biometric appointment: Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
  • Submission of documents: Submit supporting documents, including proof of identity, qualifications, and financial means.
  • Decision: Await a decision on the visa application, which typically takes a few weeks.

Documents required for skilled worker visa application

Documents needed for a UK Skilled Worker visa application typically include:

  • Valid passport.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from a licensed UK employer.
  • Evidence of English language proficiency.
  • Proof of meeting the required salary threshold.
  • Academic or professional qualifications.
  • Bank statements or payslips demonstrating financial stability.
  • Police clearance certificate(s) from countries resided in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
  • Any additional documents requested by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

How much does a skilled worker visa cost?

The cost varies based on the visa length and whether a healthcare surcharge applies. As of the latest updates, fees range from £610 (approx. Rs. 64,000) for visas up to 3 years to £1,220 (approx. Rs. 1.29 lakh) for longer visas, with a healthcare surcharge of £624 (approx. Rs. 65,000) per year.

What is the processing time for skilled worker visa in UK?

Processing times can vary, but applicants can generally expect a decision within 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

What is the duration of the skilled worker visa?

The visa can be issued for up to 5 years before needing an extension. After 5 years, visa holders may apply for indefinite leave to remain, granting them permanent residency in the UK.

Skilled worker visa requirements for employers

Employers in the UK must meet certain requirements to sponsor individuals for a Skilled Worker visa:

  • Obtain a Sponsor Licence from the UK Home Office.
  • Adhere to immigration compliance duties.
  • Provide a genuine job offer to the prospective employee.
  • Offer a job that meets the skill and salary requirements.
  • Assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) to the employee.
  • Ensure the job meets English language requirements.
  • Comply with reporting duties and record-keeping obligations.
  • Maintain sponsorship duties throughout the employee's tenure.
  • Cooperate with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) inspections.
  • Adhere to any additional guidance or regulations issued by UKVI.

Can workers with skilled worker visa take additional work in UK?

Workers with a Skilled Worker visa in the UK are generally restricted to working for their sponsoring employer in the specified role outlined in their Certificate of Sponsorship. However, they may be able to take on additional work or switch employers with the consent of their sponsor and approval from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Navigating the skilled worker visa process is a complex journey that requires thorough preparation and understanding of the requirements. By securing a job offer from the UK Tier 2 sponsor list, ensuring compliance with the Tier 2 visa UK requirements, and preparing the necessary supporting documents, applicants can embark on a rewarding career path in the United Kingdom. With careful planning and adherence to the guidelines, the dream of working in the UK can become a reality, opening a world of professional growth and opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need travel insurance to apply for a skilled worker visa in the UK?
No, travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for applying for a skilled worker visa in the UK. However, having health insurance may be beneficial for your stay, especially since accessing the NHS (National Health Service) may have certain requirements for non-residents.
Is Tier 2 the same as the skilled worker visa?
Yes, the skilled worker visa was formerly known as the Tier 2 visa. It was rebranded as part of the UK's new points-based immigration system introduced in December 2020, focusing on the skills and qualifications of workers coming to the UK.
Who is classed as a skilled worker?
A skilled worker, under the UK's immigration system, has been offered a job in the UK by an approved employer (sponsor), meeting specific skill level and salary requirements. Generally, jobs at RQF level 3 or above qualify as skilled positions.
Do EU nationals need a visa to work in the UK?

Yes, following Brexit and the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020, EU nationals, except for those covered under the Withdrawal Agreement (such as those with pre-settled or settled status), now require a visa to work in the UK, including the skilled worker visa.

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