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The Skilled Worker visa is designed for individuals who have been offered a skilled job in the UK and have a sponsor licensed by the UK Home Office. It's aimed at workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who meet the job, salary, and language requirements. The main purpose of this visa route is to fill gaps in the UK's workforce with skilled workers from abroad, contributing to the economy and specific sectors' needs. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved employer to apply.
Skilled Worker
The Skilled Worker visa is designed for individuals who have been offered a skilled job in the UK and have a sponsor licensed by the UK Home Office. It's aimed at workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who meet the job, salary, and language requirements. The main purpose of this visa route is to fill gaps in the UK's workforce with skilled workers from abroad, contributing to the economy and specific sectors' needs. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved employer to apply.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the Skilled Worker visa, including detailed requirements, step-by-step application process, required documents, costs, timeline, and expert tips for a successful application.
Varies by application type
Immigration Health Charge
Paid by employer
Per year (minimum)
To prove your job offer, you need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer, which is an electronic document containing a unique reference number. You should also provide a formal job offer letter specifying the job title, salary, and terms of employment.
FeaturedA Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a digital reference number that a licensed UK employer provides to prove a valid job offer. You cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa without a CoS. To obtain it, your UK employer must assign a CoS to you after ensuring your role meets the visa requirements. It's crucial your employer is on the Home Office's list of approved sponsors.
FeaturedYou can demonstrate English proficiency by passing an approved English language test at B1 level or higher, holding a degree taught in English, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country. Documentation or test results proving these must be submitted with your application.
FeaturedThe 'going rate' for a job is the standard salary for a role, specific to your industry and position. It's outlined by the UK Home Office. You should compare your job offer salary against these rates. If your role is on the shortage occupation list or you meet certain conditions (e.g., under 26, new graduate), you may qualify for a lower salary threshold.
FeaturedThe 'going rate' is the standard salary for a specific occupation in the UK. For your visa, your job offer must meet the higher of £25,600 per annum or the 'going rate' for your role. Check the UK Home Office guidance to determine the going rate for your specific occupation.
FeaturedYou can prove English proficiency by providing results from an approved English language test at B1 level or higher on the CEFR scale. Alternatively, a degree taught in English or proof of nationality from a majority English-speaking country will suffice. Ensure documents are up-to-date and meet specified criteria.
FeaturedThe application fee for the Skilled Worker visa may increase due to inflationary pressures and the government's need to cover administrative costs.
8/16/2025
There may be adjustments to the salary threshold or the list of eligible occupations to better align with current labor market needs.
8/16/2025