The UK Skilled Worker Visa is the main route for overseas professionals to live and work in the UK. It allows you to take up an eligible job with a UK employer who is approved by the Home Office. The Skilled Worker Visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system. This visa can be granted for up to 5 years, is extendable, and can lead to permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

Why Choose Bloom Global for Your Skilled Worker Visa?

Experienced Immigration Consultants

At Bloom Global, our consultants are experts in UK immigration law and keep up to date with the latest changes. We provide tailored, step-by-step support to maximise your chances of a successful application.

Transparent Process & Clear Communication

We prioritise transparency and clear guidance. Our team explains every stage, assists with documentation, and ensures you understand all requirements—giving you peace of mind throughout your visa journey.

Personalised, Comprehensive Support

Every applicant’s situation is unique. We assess your eligibility, help you prepare documents, and provide ongoing support until you receive your visa decision.

Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet several key requirements:

• Job Offer: You need a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office (sponsor licence holder).
• Eligible Occupation: Your job must be on the official list of eligible occupations and meet the required skill level (usually RQF level 6 or above).
• Minimum Salary: You must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold (£41,700 per year or the “going rate” for your role, whichever is higher). Lower thresholds may apply for certain roles, new entrants, or those with relevant PhDs.
• English Language: You must prove your English proficiency at CEFR level B2 or above (from January 2026 for new applicants).
• Financial Maintenance: Show you have at least £1,270 in savings (held for 28 days) unless your employer certifies your maintenance or you have been in the UK for 12+ months.
• Age: You must be 18 or over.
• Additional Checks: You may need to provide a criminal record certificate (for certain jobs) and a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if applying from certain countries).
• Genuine Vacancy: The Home Office must be satisfied that the job is genuine and not created solely for visa purposes.

Step-by-Step Skilled Worker Visa Application Process

1. Secure a Job Offer
   Obtain a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence.
2. Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
   Your employer will assign you a unique CoS reference number with job details.
3. Prepare Your Documents
   Collect required documents:
   • Certificate of Sponsorship
   • Proof of English language proficiency
   • Valid passport
   • Job title and salary evidence
   • Occupation code
   • Financial evidence (bank statements)
   • Criminal record certificate/TB test (if needed)
   • Proof of relationship (for dependants)
4. Complete the Online Application
   Fill out the application form on the official UK government website.
5. Pay Fees
   Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
6. Provide Biometrics
   Attend a biometric appointment (fingerprints and photo) or use the UK Immigration: ID Check app if eligible.
7. Wait for a Decision
   Standard processing:
   • 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK
   • Up to 8 weeks if applying from within the UK
8. Receive Your Visa
   If approved, you’ll receive your visa (and Biometric Residence Permit, if applicable).

Skilled Worker Visa Salary & Occupation Requirements

• General Salary Threshold: £41,700 per year or the “going rate” for your job—whichever is higher.
• Lower Thresholds: Possible for new entrants, PhD holders, or roles on the Immigration Salary List.
• Going Rate: Each job has a set “going rate” (check the official occupation code tables).
• Hourly Rate: Most roles require a minimum of £17.13 per hour.
• Special Rules: Health, care, and education jobs may have different salary rules based on national pay scales.

English Language Requirement

You must prove your English at CEFR level B2 (upper intermediate) or higher.
Ways to meet this requirement:

• Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) with an approved provider
• Hold a degree taught in English or from a majority English-speaking country
• Be a national of a majority English-speaking country
• Hold GCSE/A-levels in English from a UK school

Financial Maintenance Requirement

• Minimum Funds: £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.
• Exemptions: If your employer certifies maintenance or you’ve been in the UK for 12+ months.
• Dependants: Additional funds required for partners (£285) and children (£315 for the first child, £200 for each additional child).

Bringing Your Family (Dependants)

You can bring your partner and children if:

• They meet eligibility criteria
• You show sufficient funds to support them
• You provide proof of your relationship

Dependants apply separately but can join or accompany you in the UK.

Visa Duration, Extensions & Settlement (ILR)

• Visa Length: Up to 5 years, extendable as long as you meet requirements.
• Extensions: Apply before your visa expires; must have the same job, occupation code, and employer.
• Settlement (ILR): After 5 years, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided you meet salary, residency, and absence criteria.

Rights and Restrictions

You can:

• Work for your sponsoring employer in the approved role
• Take on supplementary work (up to 20 hours/week in eligible roles)
• Study and volunteer
• Bring eligible family members
• Apply for settlement after 5 years

You cannot:

• Access public funds or most UK benefits
• Work in a different job or for a different employer without a new visa

Switching and Changing Jobs

• Switching: You can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from many other UK visa types (exceptions: visitor, short-term student, etc.).
• Changing Jobs/Employer: You must apply for a new visa if changing jobs or employers, or if your job changes to a different occupation code.

Fees and Costs

• Visa Application Fee:
  • Up to 3 years: £719–£885 (depends on where you apply and your role)
  • Over 3 years: £1,519–£1,751
  • Lower fees for jobs on the Immigration Salary List
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year, paid upfront
• Immigration Skills Charge: Paid by your employer

Common Reasons for Refusal

• Incomplete or incorrect application
• Missing or incorrect documents
• Not meeting salary, skill, or English requirements
• Sponsor licence issues
• Failure to meet financial or genuine vacancy requirements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bring my family?
Yes, your partner and children may join you if eligible.

How long does the process take?
Usually 3 weeks (outside UK) or up to 8 weeks (inside UK).

Can I change jobs?
Yes, but you must apply for a new visa before starting a new job or employer.

What if my application is refused?
You may request an administrative review or reapply with corrected information.

Can EU nationals apply?
Yes, except Irish citizens, all EU nationals need a visa to work in the UK.

Can I apply for permanent residency?
After 5 years, if you meet all requirements, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Useful Resources

• UK Government Skilled Worker Visa Guide
• Eligible Occupations and Going Rates
• Approved English Language Tests
• Sponsor Licence Information

Ready to Start Your Skilled Worker Visa Journey?

At Bloom Global, we’re here to simplify your application and support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a personalised assessment and expert guidance.