Thinking about working in the UK? The Skilled Worker Visa could be your ticket. It’s designed for people who’ve landed a job offer in the UK and want to build a life there. If that’s you, this guide breaks down the entire process into easy-to-follow steps—no legal jargon, just what you need to know.
Step 1: Make Sure you’re Eligible
Before anything else, double-check that you meet the basic requirements:
- You’ve got a confirmed job offer from a UK employer
- The role is on the list of approved occupations
- The employer is licensed to sponsor workers
- You’ll be paid the required salary (usually at least £26,200 a year or £10.75 an hour)
- You can speak and understand English at a decent level (B1 on the CEFR scale)
Helpful Tip: Use the UK government’s Skilled Worker tool to confirm if your job qualifies.
Step 2: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once your job offer is confirmed, your employer will give you a Certificate of Sponsorship. Don’t worry—it’s not an actual paper certificate, just a reference number you’ll need when applying.
Note: This certificate is only valid for 3 months, so try to apply before it expires.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Here’s what you’ll need to submit with your application:
- Your passport
- The Certificate of Ownership (CoS) number from your employer
- Proof of English language skills
- Job title, salary, and employer details
- Evidence you have enough money (at least £1,270 unless your employer will cover it)
- Tuberculosis test results (if required for your country)
- Educational or professional qualifications (if your job requires them)
 Tip: Keep scanned copies ready—it makes the online application much smoother.
Step 4: Apply Online
Head over to the official UK visa site and start the application process.
Fees to keep in mind:
- Visa fee: £719 (up to 3 years) or £1,420 (more than 3 years)
- Healthcare surcharge: About £1,035 per year
Fill out the form, upload your documents, and pay the fees. Don’t rush—double-check everything before hitting submits.
Step 5: Book Your Biometric Appointment
After applying, you’ll need to book an appointment to provide your fingerprints and photo. This is usually done at a visa application center (VAC) near you.
Appointments can fill up quickly, so try to book yours .
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Once everything’s submitted, it typically takes around 3 weeks to hear back if you’re applying from outside the UK.
Note: You’ll get an email when a decision has been made. Simple as that.
Step 7: Prepare to Move
If approved, you’ll receive a visa sticker in your passport (called a vignette). This lets you enter the UK.
Once you arrive, you’ll need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days—usually at a local post office.
A Few Quick Tips
- Start early: The process can take time, especially during busy periods.
- Stay organized:Â Keep all your documents in one place.
- Ask for help if needed: Some people work with visa consultants or legal experts, especially if their case is a bit more complicated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How long does it take to get a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
Most applications from outside the UK are processed within 3 weeks. However, it’s best to apply early in case of delays or additional document requests.
- Can I bring my family with me?
Yes! You can bring your spouse or partner and children as dependants. Each family member must apply separately and meet visa requirements (including financial support).
- How long is the visa valid?
The Skilled Worker Visa is usually granted for up to 5 years, depending on your job contract. You can extend it or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years.
- What jobs qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa?
Eligible jobs include roles in healthcare, engineering, IT, education, hospitality, and skilled trades. You can check the full list of approved occupations on the UK government’s website.
- Do I need to take an English test?
Yes—unless you’re from an English-speaking country or have a recognized English-taught degree. Most applicants take tests like IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI.
- How much does the visa cost in total?
The cost depends on how long you’ll stay:
- Visa fee: £719 to £1,420
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): ~£1,035/year
- Additional costs for family members and biometric appointments
- Can I switch to this visa from inside the UK?
Yes, if you’re already in the UK on a valid visa (like a Student or Graduate Visa), you can switch to the Skilled Worker Visa—as long as you meet all requirements.
- What happens if I lose my job while on this visa?
If you lose your job, you’ll have up to 60 days to find another sponsor or leave the UK. It’s crucial to notify the Home Office and explore your options quickly.
- Can I work a second job on this visa?
Yes, but only under certain conditions. The second job must be in the same occupation code or on the shortage occupation list—and you’ll need to notify or update your visa if working more than 20 hours per week.
- Can I apply for permanent residency?
Absolutely. after 5 years on the Skilled Worker Visa (with no significant gaps), you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—which is a step toward British citizenship.
