How to Get a Skilled Worker Visa for the UK?

The UK Skilled Worker visa is a pathway for international professionals to live and work in the United Kingdom. To be eligible, applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office. The position must also meet the required skill and salary thresholds and fall under the list of eligible occupations.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the Skilled Worker visa application process:

1. Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed UK Employer

The first and most crucial step is obtaining a job offer from a UK-based employer that is officially approved by the UK Home Office.

Approved Sponsor: Your prospective employer must hold a valid sponsor licence, which authorizes them to hire international workers under the Skilled Worker visa category.
Genuine Vacancy: The job must be genuine and meet the visa requirements, including the appropriate skill level and minimum salary threshold.

To check if your employer is licensed, you can consult the UK government’s register of licensed sponsors.

2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once the job offer is confirmed, your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a digital document containing your personal and job-related details.

Employer’s Role: Only the sponsoring employer can assign the CoS through the Home Office’s sponsorship management system.
Unique Reference Number: The CoS includes a unique reference number, which you’ll need when submitting your visa application.

The CoS must be issued no more than three months before your visa application date and must not be used more than once.

3. Meet the Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, you must meet the following criteria:

Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate English proficiency at B1 level or higher (intermediate level) under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Financial Requirements: You must show that you can support yourself financially without accessing public funds. Generally, this means having at least £1,270 available (unless your sponsor covers these costs).
Health and Background Checks: Depending on your home country, you may be required to:
- Provide a valid tuberculosis (TB) test certificate
- Submit a criminal record certificate, particularly if working with vulnerable groups

4. Submit the Skilled Worker Visa Application

You must apply for the visa online via the UK government’s official visa application portal.

Required Documents:

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
Valid passport or travel document
Proof of English language proficiency
Evidence of financial support (bank statements or employer confirmation)
TB test results and/or criminal record certificate (if applicable)

Additional Requirements:

Visa Application Fee: This depends on the length of stay and job type. Fees are generally higher for longer-term visas or jobs outside the shortage occupation list.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): You’ll need to pay this to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Immigration Skills Charge: This is paid by the employer, not the applicant.

5. Important Considerations

Points-Based System: The UK operates under a points-based immigration system. You must accumulate a certain number of points based on your job offer, salary level, English skills, and other factors.
Eligible Occupations: Your job must appear on the list of eligible occupations for the Skilled Worker visa.
Salary Thresholds: You must be offered a salary that meets or exceeds the minimum requirement, which can vary depending on your role and whether it’s listed as a shortage occupation.
Extensions and Switching: You may extend your visa or switch to the Skilled Worker route from another eligible visa while already in the UK.

The UK Skilled Worker visa offers a clear pathway for skilled professionals to contribute to the UK workforce. By securing a job with a licensed sponsor and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, you can begin the process of living and working in the UK. Always check the most current guidance on the UK government website or consult your nearest UK embassy or consulate for tailored advice.