There is always something new about the UK immigration system and one recent big development has been the launch of the Skilled Worker Visa replacing the previous Tier 2 (General) Visa. It’s a visa that allows non-UK citizens to enter the UK and work for an employer who is a sponsor of the UK Home Office.
How Does The Skilled Worker Visa Work?
A Skilled Worker Visa lets foreigners work in the UK for a licensed employer. : You will need a job offer from an organization that holds a sponsor license to be considered. Brexit has altered the rules for EU citizens too. Until Brexit, there was no visa for EU nationals to enter the UK and work in the UK. But post 31 December 2020, EU citizens and non-EU citizens need a visa to work in the UK.
In case you are unsure about the Skilled Worker Visa system, Law and Visas can guide you.
What Are the Requirements to Apply?
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, you need to meet the following conditions:
- Sponsor license from your employer (from the Home Office) – Your employer’s sponsor license.
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Your company will issue you a certificate with job information.
- Requirements of the job: The job is from the listed occupations approved ( RQF level 3 or above skills, or Shortage Occupation List).
- Pay: Your job must be paid as per the Home Office’s salary standards for sponsorship.
- English Language: You need to be able to communicate in English on a certain scale.
After the process is approved, you can stay in the UK for the duration shown on your certificate of sponsorship. You could apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years. Remember that you have a visa attached to your employer and, if you leave or are fired, your visa may be canceled.
How to Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
You can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa from inside or outside the UK. There are several types of applications:
- Initial Application: If you’re applying for the first time, either from outside the UK or by switching from another qualifying visa inside the UK.
- Extension: If you’re extending your visa with the same employer and role.
- Change of Employment: If you’re changing your job or employer.
Your dependents (partners and children under 18) can also apply as part of your visa application.
You must submit your application within three months of receiving your Certificate of Sponsorship.
What Documents Do You Need?
When applying for the Skilled Worker Visa, you’ll need to submit several documents, including:
- Current Passport: Valid for travel.
- Current UK Visa (if applicable).
- Proof of English Language: Evidence that you meet the English language requirement.
- Financial Evidence: You need to show you have £1,270 in your bank account, or your sponsor must confirm this for you on the certificate of sponsorship.
- Tuberculosis Test (if applicable).
All applications must be made online through the Home Office website. You’ll also need to pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS).
How Long Does It Take to Get the Visa?
After you submit your application and complete the biometric process, it can take 3-8 weeks to get a decision:
- If you apply from inside the UK, it typically takes up to 8 weeks.
- If you apply from outside the UK, it usually takes up to 3 weeks.
Costs of the Skilled Worker Visa
Here’s what you can expect to pay for your Skilled Worker Visa:
- Visa Application Fee: Between £464 and £1,408, depending on the job and the visa length.
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year for each adult applicant. This fee covers access to the NHS while you are in the UK.
The Skilled Worker Visa is a great option for non-UK citizens who have a job offer from a UK employer. If you’re looking to apply for this visa, it’s important to understand the requirements and process. Law and Visas can help you navigate the visa application process and ensure everything is completed correctly. Let us assist you in securing your UK work visa and making your transition smooth.
