UK Skilled Worker Visa

UK Skilled Worker Visa Changes 2025

The UK’s immigration system is undergoing big changes in 2025, with significant changes to the Skilled Worker visa route. Whether you’re an overseas professional, a UK employer or planning to move in the future, these updates will affect your application process, eligibility and long term settlement options.

From 22 July 2025, only jobs at RQF Level 6 (degree level) and above will qualify for a Skilled Worker visa.

• Exceptions: Certain shortage occupations on the Temporary Shortage List or the Immigration Salary List may still be eligible at lower RQF levels.
• This reverses the post-Brexit policy that allowed lower-skilled roles (RQF 3–5) to qualify.

The minimum salary requirement is going up:

• General threshold: £41,700 per year
• New entrants (recent graduates, under 26): £33,400 per year
• Visa extensions: £31,300 per year

Employers and applicants must ensure job offers meet these new salary rules to avoid refusal.

The care worker route is being phased out:

• Overseas recruitment ends July 2025 for new applicants
• Complete closure by July 2028
• Employers in the care sector must focus on domestic recruitment and training.

The qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) will double:

• From 5 years to 10 years of continuous UK residence.
• A “fast-track” points-based route may be introduced for exceptional applicants.

The Immigration Skills Charge is increasing by around 32%. This means higher sponsorship costs for UK businesses, with the government aiming to invest more in domestic skills training.

Applicants — and adult dependants — will face tougher English language tests and ongoing monitoring during their stay.

• The UK will roll out digital eVisas to replace Biometric Residence Permits. Digital eVisas will replace Biometric Residence Permits.
• Deportation powers will extend to more criminal and civil breaches.

UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker visa category is for individuals from the European Economic Area (EEA), including Swiss nationals (from 1 January 2021), and non-EEA nationals who have been sponsored to do a specific skilled job by a licensed sponsor.

The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals to work in a job that matches their skills and qualifications. This visa is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system, replacing the Tier 2 (General) work visa. While the basics of the visa requirements remain the same, some changes have been introduced to make the system more employer and employee friendly.

The UK Skilled Worker visa helps UK companies to fill existing labour shortages that cannot be filled by the UK or a settled person. Note that a skilled worker visa must not displace a suitable settled worker, so it’s a fair and balanced approach to workforce management.

To apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you need a job offer from a UK Home Office-approved sponsor. This is a key requirement because it ensures the job meets the minimum skill and salary requirements. The sponsor plays a big part in the process.

The UK Skilled Worker route is a visa program that offers more flexibility to individuals with different qualifications, salaries and skills. Applicants applying for a UK skilled worker visa must score a minimum of 70 points. These points are split into ‘Mandatory’ and ‘Tradeable’. Applicants can earn “Mandatory” points for having a sponsor, a job and English language proficiency. “Tradeable” points can be earned for salary and other qualities. In addition to these 70 points, some applicants may also need to meet non-point requirements such as tuberculosis testing, showing available funds and providing criminal records certificates.

UK Skilled Worker Visa: Key Requirements 2025

To meet the requirements of a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old on the date of application.
   
   
2. Job Offer from a Licenced Sponsor: To apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you need a job offer from a sponsor approved by the Home Office.
   
   
3. The role should meet the appropriate skill level: The job offer must meet or exceed RQF6 or its equivalent.
   
   
4. Genuine Vacancy: The job must be genuine and not created to gain entry clearance or permission to stay.
   
   
5. English Language Requirement: You must pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider at CEFR level B1.
   
   
6. Salary Requirement: The job must offer a salary that meets the general threshold or “going rate” for the occupation, whichever is higher.
   
   
7. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must provide a valid Certificate of Sponsorship that includes all the details of the role in the UK.
   
   
8. Financial or Maintenance Requirement: You must have at least £1,270 and be able to fund yourself for 28 consecutive days without public funds to move to the UK.
   
   

Skilled worker visa minimum salary

Applicants applying under the Skilled Worker route must score 20 ‘points’ for the salary provided on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

UK Skilled Worker visa applicants must be offered a salary of at least £41,700 or the "going rate" for their job, whichever is higher. The Standard Occupation Code (SOC) provides the going rate for each job, which can be found on the Home Office website – ‘Skilled Worker Visa: going rates for eligible occupation codes ’.

The Immigration Rules provide different ways for a Skilled Worker to score these points, from Options A to K.

Salary Requirements for a new UK Skilled Worker visa application

Applicants applying for a Skilled Worker visa will only be able to score points listed in ‘Table 1 or Table 1a of Appendix Skilled Occupations ’ under Options A to E if:

• You have never had a Skilled Worker visa or do not meet the transitional provision;
  
• You are not being hired for a Health and Care visa or
  
• You do not fall under an eligible health or education.
  

Salary requirements for existing Skilled Worker visa holders

Applicants for a Skilled Worker visa can only score points listed in under Options F to J if:

• They are being sponsored for a ‘Health and Care visa.’
  
• They were granted permission as a Skilled Worker before 4 April 2024 & they have had continuous permission as a Skilled Worker since then
  

Salary requirements for health and education occupations

Applicants for a Skilled Worker Visa can only claim points under Option K if they are being sponsored in health and education occupations with going rates based on national pay scales. These eligible jobs are listed in ‘Table 3, 3a, 4 or 5 of Appendix Skilled Occupations ’

The salary threshold, under Option K, is:-

UK Temporary Shortage List – 2025 Guide

The UK Temporary Shortage List is a temporary, policy-driven pathway allowing certain medium-skilled roles (RQF Levels 3-5) to remain eligible for UK Skilled Worker visas under the UK's tightened immigration rules. Designed to bridge essential labour gaps, these roles would otherwise fall outside the newly raised degree-level (RQF 6+) requirement.

The list operates only until 31 December 2026. After that, eligibility will depend on recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), including evidence of industry-wide UK workforce training plans.

The TSL comprises 52 Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes covering various sectors experiencing acute shortages. These include skilled trades, technician positions, and specialised roles requiring intermediate qualifications. (Full list of eligible occupations for UK Temporary Shortage List )

Unlike earlier shortage lists, roles on the UK Temporary Shortage List (TSL) do not benefit from salary discounts. This means that employers must pay the full Skilled Worker visa salary thresholds when sponsoring applicants for these positions.

However, you may still qualify for other salary reductions, such as the new entrant discount, if you meet the eligibility criteria. This ensures that while shortage roles no longer get automatic discounts, certain groups of applicants can still benefit from lower thresholds.

Unlike higher-skilled visa holders, migrants sponsored under this list cannot bring family members to the UK.

Skilled Worker visa requirements for employers

• Legitimacy: Employers must prove their business is legitimate and operational within the country.
  
  
• HR Systems Check: Immigration authorities may review a sponsor's human resources systems and procedures to ensure the sponsor can manage sponsorship duties/responsibilities.
  
  
• No Unsettled Violations: The sponsor must ensure that there are previous breaches of immigration law.
  

Sponsorship requirement

UK Skilled worker visa applicants must have a job offer from a UK-based employer. Sponsorship means the employer attests to the legitimacy of the job offer and, often, to the necessity of hiring a foreign national to fill the role. The employer may need to demonstrate that they have conducted a local labour market test, proving that no suitable local candidate could fill the position. The sponsor must have a valid sponsorship license with an A rating.

Genuine Vacancy Requirement

The Home Office must be satisfied that the applicant for a Skilled Worker visa is being sponsored for a genuine vacancy and has the necessary skills to undertake the role. The applicant should intend to work solely for the role for which they are being sponsored or allowed by their conditions of stay.

The Home Office assesses applicants based on their knowledge of the job, relevant skills and experience, familiarity with the UK sponsor, and how they were recruited. Any other relevant information is also considered.

English Language requirement

Applicants applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa, can meet the English Language Requirement in the following ways:

• Pass an approved English language test at the required level (CEFR level B1 or higher in reading, understanding, speaking, and writing)
• Have a degree from a recognised institution, which was taught or researched in English
• Study in the UK and achieve a GCSE/A Level or Scottish Highers in English
• Be a national of one of the English-speaking countries

Financial Requirement

UK Skilled Worker visa applicants seeking entry clearance or staying in the UK for less than 12 months must have held £1,270 for 28 days before the date of application.

Applicants who have been living in the UK with permission for 12 or more months at the time of their application are exempted from meeting the requirement.

Alternatively, an A-rated sponsor can provide accommodation and maintenance until the end of the first month of employment, with a minimum amount of £1,270.

Applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa

1. Check Your Eligibility
   Before you apply, make sure the UK Skilled Worker visa meets all the above criteria.
   


2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
   Your UK employer must give you a Certificate of Sponsorship with the job details for the role they are offering you in the UK. It’s a digital document, not a physical one. You’ll need the reference number for your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
   


3. Gather Documents
   You’ll need to provide the documents listed below for your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
   


4. Apply Online
   You’ll need to apply from outside the UK. Visit the UK Visas and Immigration website to complete your application.
   


5. Immigration Healthcare Surcharge and Home Office Fee
   You’ll need to pay the Immigration healthcare surcharge (if not exempt) and your visa application fee as part of your online application. The cost will depend on your circumstances and how long you plan to stay in the UK.
   


6. Verify applicant’s identity
   You’ll need to provide your biometric information at a visa application centre or use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity documents.
   


7. Attending biometric appointment
   You may need to go to a visa application centre for an appointment. During your visit, your photo will be taken and your fingerprints will be scanned for biometric information.
   


8. Wait for the Decision
   After you apply, the Home Office will usually make a decision and contact you.
   
   

UK Skilled Worker Visa: Required Documents Checklist

When applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa you will need to gather various documents to meet the application requirements. Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready and in order for a smooth application process.

Below is a full list of documents you will need:

1. Passport
   At least 6 months validity.
   


2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
   An electronic record, not a physical document, is given by the employer. It has a unique reference number and contains details about a job offered in the UK.
   


3. Proof of Knowledge of English
   Evidence to show English language at B1 level according to CEFR.
   


4. Personal Details Document
   Current passport or other document that validly proves identity and nationality.
   


5. Job Details
   Document from the employer outlining job title, annual salary, job SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code and type of contract (permanent, fixed-term, etc.).
   


6. Salary
   Documents to show you will be paid an appropriate salary for your job, meeting either the general salary threshold or the specific occupation’s “going rate” whichever is higher.
   


7. Financial Requirement
   Proof of personal savings required when you arrive in the UK unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance for the first month. You will usually need at least £1,270 for 28 days.
   


8. Criminal Record Certificate Requirement
   In certain professions, particularly those that involve working with vulnerable individuals, you may need to have certain qualifications or certifications. Such qualifications are mandatory for these jobs. You will need to provide a certificate from any country where you have lived for at least 12 months in the last 10 years.
   


9. Tuberculosis Test Results
   If you are listed in the country where you need to take the test you must include your tuberculosis test results.
   


10. Academic Qualifications
    If relevant to your job or required for the sponsorship. This may involve providing degree certificates, diplomas, transcripts or employment references.
    


11. Proof of Relationship If applying with dependents you will need to provide evidence of your relationship, including marriage or birth certificates. You must verify that your relationship is genuine and currently ongoing.
    

**Important Tips

• Make sure all documents are in English or Welsh or have a certified translation.
• Keep digital copies of all documents as backup and for online applications.
• Check the latest updates on the UK Government website or consult a legal professional specialising in UK immigration to ensure the required documents list has not been changed.

Application Process

The UK Skilled Worker visa application process involves 7 steps and typically takes 6-12 weeks from start to finish. Understanding this process helps to avoid delays and refusals.

The first and most important step in your Skilled Worker visa application is to find a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence. Not all UK employers can hire international workers – only those approved by the Home Office through their sponsor licensing system.

When searching for jobs, focus on companies that explicitly state they can sponsor work visas or check the Home Office’s register of licensed sponsors. Many large corporations, NHS trusts, universities and established businesses hold these licences but smaller companies may not. During your job search always verify the employer’s sponsor status before investing time in applications.

Once you have a job offer your employer will need to assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This digital document contains all the details of your job including your salary, job title, SOC code and start date. The CoS is valid for 3 months from the date of issue so timing your application is important.

Document preparation is key to a successful Skilled Worker visa application. Start by gathering all the required documents using the checklist above. Every document must be in English or accompanied by certified translations from approved translation services.

If you need to prove your English language proficiency book your IELTS for UKVI test or equivalent approved examination well in advance. These tests often have a 2-3 week waiting period for results and you cannot submit your visa application without valid test scores unless you qualify for an exemption. Popular alternatives include the Pearson PTE Academic UKVI and Trinity College London Secure English Language Tests.Health requirements vary depending on your country of residence and occupation. If you’re applying from a country where tuberculosis testing is mandatory schedule your test at an approved clinic. Healthcare workers, teachers and social care professionals will need to provide criminal record certificates which can take several weeks to obtain. Start this process early as these documents have strict validity periods – usually no more than 6 months old at the time of application.

The UK government’s online visa application system (https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa) is user friendly but requires attention to detail. You’ll need your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number to start the application as this links your application to your employer’s sponsorship.

The application form covers extensive personal information including your complete employment history, education background, travel history for the past 10 years and detailed family information. If you’re bringing dependants you’ll need to provide comprehensive details about your spouse or partner and any children under 18. Take your time to complete each section accurately as inconsistencies can lead to delays or refusal.

Before submitting review all information carefully. The application fee is non-refundable even if your application is refused due to errors or missing information. Save your progress regularly and keep copies of all information entered for your records.

UK Skilled Worker visa applications involve multiple fees that must be paid online during the application process. The main visa application fee varies depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK and the length of visa you’re requesting. These fees range from £590 for certain Immigration Salary List positions to £1,715 for longer term applications from within the UK.

You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) which provides access to the National Health Service during your stay. This costs £1,035 per year for most applicants or £776 per year for students and children under 18. The IHS is calculated for the full length of your visa and must be paid upfront. If you’re bringing family members each dependant pays the same fees as the main applicant.

Payment must be made by debit or credit card and you should ensure you have sufficient funds available as the total costs can be substantial – often several thousand pounds for families.

Biometric information collection varies depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK. This step involves providing your fingerprints, digital photograph and confirming your identity documents.

If applying from outside the UK you’ll need to attend an appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) in your country. These centres are operated by VFS Global or similar contractors and are located in major cities worldwide. Book your appointment as soon as possible after submitting your online application as popular locations may have waiting periods. Bring all your supporting documents to this appointment as they’ll be scanned and submitted with your application.

For applications from within the UK you have two options. The UK Immigration ID Check app allows you to complete the process using your smartphone if you have a biometric passport from an eligible country. Alternatively you can attend a service point appointment at locations across the UK. The app option is typically faster and more convenient but not available for all nationalities.

Processing times for Skilled Worker visa applications vary significantly based on your location and the service level you choose. Standard processing takes up to three weeks for applications from outside the UK and up to eight weeks for applications from within the UK. However, these are maximum timeframes, and many applications are processed more quickly.

Priority services are available for an additional fee if you need faster processing. Priority service costs an extra £500 and typically provides a decision within five working days. Super Priority service costs £1,000 and aims to provide decisions within 24 hours, though availability is limited and not offered at all locations.

During the waiting period, avoid making non-essential travel plans or commitments that depend on your visa approval. The Home Office may request additional information or documents, which could extend processing times. Monitor your email regularly for any communication from the visa processing centre.

If your Skilled Worker visa application is approved you’ll receive your passport back with a visa vignette (sticker) that allows you to travel to the UK. Check all details on the visa carefully including the validity dates, conditions and spelling of your name. Report any errors immediately to avoid problems at the UK border.Your visa vignette is valid for 30 days to travel to the UK, after which you’ll need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a designated Post Office within 10 days of arrival. The BRP is your official proof of immigration status in the UK and contains important information about your work rights and visa conditions.

If your application is refused carefully review the refusal notice to understand the specific reasons. Common reasons include insufficient salary, incorrect documentation or failure to meet English language requirements. You may be able to submit a new application addressing these issues or in some cases request an administrative review if you believe the decision was incorrect. Consider seeking professional immigration advice if your application is refused especially if the reasons are complex or unclear.

Plan your travel to the UK well in advance of your job start date allowing time for potential delays and the process of settling into your new role and location. Remember you cannot start work until your visa is granted and you have arrived in the UK with valid documentation.

Processing Times

Factors Affecting Processing Time

The time it takes for a UK Skilled Worker visa application to be processed can vary. Understanding the main factors can help you plan your application more effectively.

The complexity of your application plays a major role in processing time. Applications that involve multiple dependants, unusual job roles, or additional endorsements may take longer to review. The Home Office needs to carefully check that all eligibility criteria are met, which can extend processing times compared to straightforward applications.

Submitting all required documents accurately is essential. Missing documents, incorrect translations, or incomplete forms can cause delays or even lead to refusals. Ensuring that your Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of English proficiency, financial statements, and other supporting documents are complete helps speed up the process.

Some applicants may need additional background checks, such as criminal record certificates, tuberculosis (TB) tests, or professional clearance for regulated roles. These checks can add extra time to your application, so it’s important to start gathering these documents early.

The Home Office processes thousands of Skilled Worker visa applications each month. During peak periods, such as before the start of the UK academic year or major hiring cycles, processing times can be longer due to high application volumes.

Processing times also depend on the country where you apply. Applications made from outside the UK may take longer because they require appointments at Visa Application Centres (VACs) and overseas document verification. Some countries have faster or slower turnaround times depending on local Home Office resources.

If you have a UK Skilled Worker visa, your close family members can apply to join you in the UK. They will usually get the same visa duration and similar rights as you.

Eligible dependants include:

• Your husband, wife, or civil partner
• Your unmarried partner (if you’ve lived together for 2+ years)
• Children under 18 (including those born in the UK)
• Children over 18, if already in the UK as your dependants

You must provide proof of your relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates. Unmarried partners need evidence of living together.

Dependants also need extra maintenance funds unless your employer confirms support. The amounts are: £285 for a partner, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each additional child.

Dependants will receive a visa that ends on the same date as the main applicant’s visa.

Dependants can work in the UK without restrictions and can also study at any level. They will have access to the NHS once the Immigration Health Surcharge is paid.

After 5 years in the UK, dependants may also apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), giving them long-term settlement rights.

Dependants must pay the same visa fees as the main applicant. They also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is usually £1,035 (adult) per year and £776 (child) per year.

After You Get Your Skilled Worker Visa

Once your UK Skilled Worker visa is approved, you must follow certain rules to maintain your status. This includes what kind of work you can do, the conditions you must meet, and what happens if your circumstances change.

With a Skilled Worker visa, you can work for your sponsoring employer, take on supplementary employment in the same or a similar role, do voluntary work, and study without restrictions.

But there are limits. You can’t claim most public benefits, work as a professional sportsperson or enter certain regulated professions without additional qualifications.

From 22 July 2025 the UK’s Skilled Worker visa rules on supplementary employment have been updated as part of the wider immigration reforms.

A Skilled Worker visa holder can take on additional work alongside their sponsored role only if all of the following conditions are met:

1. Eligible Occupation: The supplementary job must be in an occupation code listed in:

• Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations (eligible skilled roles at RQF Level 6 and above), or

• Table 2 or 3 (shortage occupations and health/education roles), provided the role is still permitted under the new rules.

• Work Hours Limit: Applicants must not work more than 20 hours per week in their supplementary job.

2. Outside Sponsored Hours

o The supplementary job must be performed outside the contracted working hours of their sponsored employment.

To keep your visa valid, you must continue working for your sponsoring employer. You can change roles within the same company but you may need to tell the Home Office.

You must also meet the minimum salary requirements throughout your employment. Employers usually check this during annual salary reviews.

In addition, you are required to report any changes to the Home Office, such as a new address or significant changes in your personal circumstances.

If you want to change jobs, your new employer must hold a valid sponsor licence. You will need to apply for a “change of employment” visa, and you cannot start your new job until it is approved.

If you lose your job, you will normally get a 60-day grace period (or until your visa expires, if sooner) to find a new sponsor or switch to another visa category. During this period, you must continue meeting all visa conditions.

Path to Permanent Residence on a Skilled Worker Visa

After living in the UK for 5 continuous years on a Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR allows you to live and work in the UK permanently.

UK Skilled Worker visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

The Skilled Worker visa provides a direct route to UK permanent residency through Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years. To qualify you must not spend more than 180 days outside the UK in any single year and continue to work for the same sponsor licence holder who supported your UK Skilled Worker visa application.

The 5-year qualifying period can include time on various UK work visas including Representative of an Overseas Business, Innovator, Global Talent, Tier 2 and Tier 1 visas but time on the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur scheme doesn’t count. To apply for ILR you must still meet minimum salary requirements, demonstrate sufficient English language skills and pass the Life in the UK test if aged between 18 and 65.Once you have ILR you are free from visa renewals, immigration healthcare surcharge and unrestricted work rights across the UK. After 12 months of ILR you can apply for British citizenship making the Skilled Worker visa a long-term settlement option for skilled professionals seeking permanent UK residency.

To qualify for ILR, you must:

• Have continuous residence in the UK for 5 years. This five-year period can include time spent on various UK work visas, such as the Representative of an Overseas Business, Innovator, Global Talent, Tier 2, and Tier 1 visas (excluding Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur scheme)
• Not be absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any year.
• Meet your salary requirements.
• Pass the Life in the UK Test.
• Meet the English language requirement at B1 level.
• Have no serious criminal convictions.

Once granted, ILR gives you the right to live permanently in the UK without visa restrictions. You can work freely, access public benefits, and after one year, apply for British citizenship if you meet all requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa

Applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa can be complex. Avoiding common mistakes can reduce the risk of refusal and delays.

Using the wrong SOC code is a common reason for visa refusal. Make sure your job duties match your Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code exactly. Check the code against the official list.

Salary calculation errors can also cause refusals. Ensure your salary meets both the general minimum and the going rate. Use official salary calculators and check the latest thresholds carefully.

Document mistakes are another frequent issue. Missing documents, non-English documents or bank statements not covering the full 28-day period can lead to rejection. Always use a complete checklist and verify all documents before submitting.

English language errors are common. Only UKVI-approved tests from authorised centres are accepted and your results must be valid at the time of application.

Sponsor issues can also block your visa. If your employer’s sponsor licence is suspended or your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is expired your application will fail. Always check your sponsor’s status before applying.

Applying too late can delay your visa. Applications can be submitted up to 3 months before your job start date, so start early.

Not allowing enough buffer time for document preparation or potential delays is another common problem. Begin the process 2–3 months in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Not maintaining required funds can cause refusal. Keep the minimum savings untouched for the full 28 days including extra funds for dependants if applicable.

Underestimating costs is also risky. Don’t forget the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and dependant fees. Use official calculators to budget accurately for the total cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does a Skilled Worker visa last? v

  • Up to 5 years initially. You can extend for another 5 years and apply for permanent residence (ILR) after a total of 5 years of residence.
    

• Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa from another visa type? v

  • Yes, you can switch from most visa types while in the UK, including Student, Graduate, and other work visas. You cannot switch to a Skilled Worker visa from the following visa types:

    • Visit visa
    • Short-term student visa
    • Parent of a Child Student visa
    • Seasonal worker visa
    • Domestic worker visa in a private household
    • Leave outside the immigration rules
    • Immigration bail

• What happens if I lose my job? v

  • You have a 60-day grace period to find a new licensed sponsor or switch to another visa category.

Salary & Employment Questions

• Can my salary include bonuses and benefits? v

  • Only guaranteed basic salary counts. Bonuses, overtime, and most benefits cannot be included in salary calculations.
    

• Can I work for multiple employers? v

  • You can take additional employment in the same occupation or similar roles, but your main employment must be with your sponsor.

• Do I need to meet salary requirements throughout my visa? v

  • Yes, you must continue to meet salary thresholds. Your sponsor must report if your salary drops below required levels.

• What kind of Supplementary Employment can I do? v

  • From 22 July 2025 the UK’s Skilled Worker visa rules on supplementary employment have been updated as part of the wider immigration reforms.
    A Skilled Worker visa holder can take on additional work alongside their sponsored role only if all of the following conditions are met:

    3. Eligible Occupation: The supplementary job must be in an occupation code listed in:

    • Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations (eligible skilled roles at RQF Level 6 and above), or

    • Table 2 or 3 (shortage occupations and health/education roles), provided the role is still permitted under the new rules.

    • Work Hours Limit: Applicants must not work more than 20 hours per week in their supplementary job.

    4. Outside Sponsored Hours

    o The supplementary job must be performed outside the contracted working hours of their sponsored employment.

Family Questions

• Can my children attend UK schools? v

  • Yes, dependent children can attend state schools without additional fees and private schools by paying standard fees.
    

• Can my spouse/partner work in the UK? v

  • Yes, dependents have full work authorisation with no restrictions on the type of employment.
    

• What if my child turns 18 while we're in the UK? v

  • Children who turn 18 while in the UK as dependants can usually continue as dependants until the family's next visa application.
    

Application Process Questions

• Can I apply from inside the UK? v

  • Yes, if you're already in the UK on a valid visa. Processing times and fees may differ from overseas applications.
    

• How early can I apply? v

  • Up to 3 months before your job start date. Don't apply too early as your Certificate of Sponsorship is only valid for 3 months.
    

• What is my immigration status while my application is pending?v

  • If you submit your UK Skilled Worker visa application before your current visa or leave expires, your existing immigration status continues until a decision is made. This applies even if the decision comes after your previous permission to stay has ended.
    

• What if my application is refused? v

  • You can make a new application addressing the refusal reasons, or in some cases, request an administrative review.
    

Settlement Questions

• How do I qualify for permanent residence (ILR)? v

  • After 5 years continuous residence, pass the Life in the UK test, meet English language requirements, and continue meeting salary thresholds.
    

• Can I apply for British citizenship? v

  • Yes, typically 1 year after getting ILR, if you meet residence, English language, and good character requirements.
    

• What counts as continuous residence? v

  • Living in the UK without being absent for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during your 5-year qualifying period.
    

• How Many Days Can I Stay Outside the UK for ILR?v

  • If you have a UK Skilled Worker visa, the amount of time you can spend outside the UK affects your eligibility for indefinite leave to remain (ILR).
    
    For visa holders whose leave was granted before 11 January 2018, you must not spend more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.
    
    For those granted leave on or after 11 January 2018, absences are counted as continuous periods, rather than fixed blocks. Generally, UK Skilled Worker visa holders should not be outside the UK for more than 180 whole days in any consecutive 12-month period to qualify for ILR.

Government Fees