If you’re thinking about applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa, you probably have many questions. The UK visa process can be confusing, especially with changing rules and requirements. In this guide, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you understand what’s involved in getting a Skilled Worker visa.
If you still have questions after reading this, feel free to contact Law and Visas. We specialize in Skilled Worker visas and can guide you through the process.
Who Qualifies for a Skilled Worker Visa?
To qualify for a UK Skilled Worker visa, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Job Offer: You must have a job offer from a UK employer who is registered as a sponsor with the UK government.
- Eligible Role: Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations.
- Minimum Salary: Your job must meet the minimum salary requirement, which depends on your role.
- English Language: You must meet the English language requirement.
- Proof of Funds: You must show that you have enough money to support yourself when you arrive in the UK.
Is the Skilled Worker Visa Tier 1 or Tier 2?
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the old Tier 2 (General Worker) visa on 1 December 2020. The Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa was also replaced with the Innovator Founder visa. Now, the Skilled Worker visa is the current route for skilled workers to come to the UK.
How Do I Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa?
To apply for a Skilled Worker visa:
- Job Offer: You must first secure a job offer from a UK employer who is a registered sponsor.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer will issue a CoS, which you will need to submit with your visa application.
- Submit Application: Once you have your CoS, you can apply for your visa.
- Outside the UK: Applications usually take about 3 weeks to process.
- Inside the UK: If you’re already in the UK, it can take up to 8 weeks.
What Are the 70 Points for the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa uses a points-based system. You need to collect 70 points to be eligible.
- 50 points are mandatory, including:
- 20 points for having a job offer from an approved sponsor.
- 20 points for having a role at the required skill level.
- 10 points for meeting the English language requirement.
- 20 points can be earned through factors like:
- Salary (higher salaries can earn more points).
- Educational qualifications.
- Training in a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
- Working in a shortage occupation.
What Is a Skilled Worker?
To be considered a skilled worker, you must:
- Work in an eligible occupation listed by the UK Home Office.
- Earn at least £26,200 per year, though some roles with higher demand (shortage occupations) may have a lower salary requirement.
Is It Hard to Get a Skilled Worker Visa?
The hardest part of getting a Skilled Worker visa is often securing a job offer from a UK employer. There is competition for roles, and employers may hesitate to hire someone from outside the UK due to the additional costs involved in sponsoring a worker. However, many employers are actively hiring skilled workers, especially in shortage occupations or highly specialized fields.
What Is the Minimum Salary for a Skilled Worker Visa?
The minimum salary depends on the occupation, but generally, it’s set at £26,200 per year. If you work in a shortage occupation or have a higher qualification, you may be able to earn less and still qualify.
To find out the exact salary requirement for your job, you can check the eligible occupations list on the UK Home Office website.
How Much Does a Skilled Worker Visa Cost?
There are several costs involved:
- Employer Costs:
- Sponsor license fee: £536 to £1,476.
- Certificate of Sponsorship fee: £239 per employee.
- Immigration Skills Charge: £364 to £1,000 for the first year, with additional charges for longer contracts.
- Employee Costs:
- Application fee: £551 to £1,500, depending on the job.
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year.
- Proof of funds to support yourself and any dependents.
Can I Get a Skilled Worker Visa Without a Job Offer?
No, you cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa without a job offer. The job must come from a UK employer who is a registered sponsor, and they will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship.
If you don’t yet have a job offer, you could visit the UK on a Standard Visitor Visa to attend job interviews. Once you have a job offer, you can apply for the Skilled Worker visa from outside the UK.
How Much Does It Cost an Employer to Sponsor a Skilled Worker Visa?
Employers must pay several fees to sponsor a worker. These costs depend on the size of the company and the type of worker being hired.
- Sponsor License: £536 to £1,476 (every 5 years).
- Certificate of Sponsorship: £239 per worker.
- Immigration Skills Charge: £364 to £1,000 for the first 12 months, plus £182 to £500 for each additional 6-month period.
For a larger company hiring a worker for 5 years, the total cost can be around £6,715. For smaller or charitable employers, the total cost could be about £2,595.
Who Pays for the Skilled Worker Visa?
The visa application fee is typically paid by the applicant. Some employers offer to cover these costs as an incentive to attract top talent. You should never pay for your Certificate of Sponsorship or the Immigration Skills Charge—these should be covered by the employer.
Can I Sponsor Myself for a Skilled Worker Visa?
In some cases, self-sponsorship is possible for entrepreneurs and business owners who have experience running a business. If you want to set up or take over a business in the UK, self-sponsorship could be an option. For more information on this route, check out the detailed resources on Law and Visas.
Can I Sponsor My Friend for a Skilled Worker Visa?
As a UK employer, you can sponsor a friend if you are offering them a genuine job that meets the visa requirements. However, the job must be real, and your friend must have the necessary skills for the role. Sponsoring unqualified people can jeopardize your status as a sponsor.
Can I Get Married on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, you can get married in the UK while on a Skilled Worker visa. If you decide to marry, your immigration status will be checked when you give notice of your intention to marry. After marriage, you can stay on the Skilled Worker visa, or you may switch to a Spouse Visa. This would allow you to switch jobs more easily, and after 5 years, you could apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
