Question 1

What documents are required to prove my job offer from a UK employer?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain it?

Accepted Answer

A 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.

Question 3

How do I demonstrate my English language proficiency for the Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

You 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.

Question 4

How do I determine if my salary meets the 'going rate' for my job?

Accepted Answer

The '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.

Question 5

What is the 'going rate' and how does it affect my application?

Accepted Answer

The '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.

Question 6

What documents are required to prove English language proficiency?

Accepted Answer

You 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.

Question 7

How long does it typically take to process a Skilled Worker visa application?

Accepted Answer

Processing times for the Skilled Worker visa typically range from 3 to 8 weeks. However, it is advisable to start your application process early to accommodate any unexpected delays and ensure all documentation is in order.

Question 8

Can I apply for a Skilled Worker visa if my job is below RQF Level 3?

Accepted Answer

No, your job must be at RQF Level 3 or above, equivalent to A-level qualifications. This ensures the role is sufficiently skilled. If your job doesn't meet this level, it won't qualify for the Skilled Worker visa.

Question 9

Can my family members join me in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can bring certain family members with you, including your spouse/partner and children under 18. Each family member will need to apply as your dependant and meet specific requirements, including proof of relationship and maintenance funds.

Question 10

How long must I maintain the required maintenance funds in my account?

Accepted Answer

You must have at least £1,270 available for a continuous 28-day period. The last day of this 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you apply for your visa. This ensures you have adequate funds to support yourself upon arrival in the UK.

Question 11

What are the total costs involved in applying for a Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Costs include the visa application fee (ranging from £610 to £1,408 depending on circumstances), the healthcare surcharge (usually £624 per year), and any additional fees for dependants. Ensure you budget for these fees before applying.

Question 12

What are the costs associated with applying for a Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

The visa application fee ranges from £625 to £1,423, depending on your circumstances. Additionally, you'll need to pay the healthcare surcharge, typically £624 per year. Be prepared for costs associated with English language tests and document translations if necessary.

Question 13

What happens if my job offer's salary is below the required threshold?

Accepted Answer

If your salary is below £25,600, you may still qualify if the role is on the shortage occupation list or if you have a relevant PhD. You must still meet the 'going rate' for your job and accrue sufficient points through other criteria.

Question 14

What is the timeline for processing a Skilled Worker visa application?

Accepted Answer

The standard processing time is up to 8 weeks from the date you submit your biometrics. However, you can pay for priority services to expedite the process, potentially reducing it to 5 working days. It's advisable to apply well in advance to avoid delays.

Question 15

Do I need to provide proof of maintenance funds, and how much is required?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you need to show you can support yourself. This usually means having at least £1,270 available in your bank account for 28 days before applying. Some applicants may be exempt if their sponsor certifies maintenance.

Question 16

What happens if my Skilled Worker visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If refused, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons. You may contest the decision by applying for an administrative review or submitting a new application addressing the issues. Consult with a legal expert to assess your next steps and improve your chances of approval.

Question 17

What should I do if my visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your visa application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can request an administrative review or reapply, addressing the refusal reasons. Consider seeking legal advice to strengthen your reapplication.

Question 18

Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa from another UK visa category?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa from many other visa categories while in the UK, unless you hold a short-term visa like a visitor visa. Ensure your current visa allows switching and meet all Skilled Worker visa requirements before applying.

Question 19

Can I change jobs while on a Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you must apply to update your visa with your new job details. The new employer must be a licensed sponsor, and the job must meet the Skilled Worker visa requirements, including salary thresholds and skill level.

Question 20

What are the steps to bring family members with me to the UK?

Accepted Answer

Family members, including spouses and children under 18, can apply as dependents. They must prove their relationship to you and meet specific financial requirements. Each dependent will also need to pay the application fee and healthcare surcharge.

Question 21

How can I qualify for permanent residency under the Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

After living in the UK for five continuous years on a Skilled Worker visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you meet residency requirements, have not breached immigration laws, and pass a Life in the UK test.

Question 22

What should I do if my employer loses their sponsorship license?

Accepted Answer

If your employer loses their sponsorship license, you may face visa curtailment. You will have a limited time to find a new sponsor or leave the UK. It's crucial to act promptly and seek a new sponsor to apply for a new CoS and Skilled Worker visa.

Question 23

What role does the Certificate of Sponsorship play in the application?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is crucial for your visa application. It confirms that your UK employer has offered you a legitimate job and provides essential details like your job's start date and salary, which are needed to assess your eligibility.

Question 24

How can I apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after holding a Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

You can apply for ILR after living in the UK for 5 continuous years on a Skilled Worker visa. Ensure you meet all residency requirements and have maintained your employment. You must also pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English language standards.

Question 25

Are there any exceptions to the English language requirement?

Accepted Answer

Yes, exceptions apply for nationals of majority English-speaking countries and those who have a degree taught in English. Additionally, certain age or health conditions may exempt you, but documentation proving these exemptions may be required.

Question 26

Are there any restrictions on the type of work I can do with a Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

You can work in the job you're sponsored for and undertake voluntary work. However, starting your own business or working as a professional sportsperson is not allowed. Ensure your work aligns with your sponsorship to maintain your visa status.

Question 27

What should I do if my personal circumstances change after applying?

Accepted Answer

If your circumstances change, such as a change in employer or address, you must promptly update your application or visa details with the UK Home Office to avoid potential breaches of visa conditions that could affect your stay.

Question 28

What are the character requirements for the Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Applicants must have a clean criminal record. You may need to provide a police clearance certificate from any country you've lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. This ensures you meet the UK's public safety standards.

Question 29

Is work experience mandatory for the Skilled Worker visa application?

Accepted Answer

While not always mandatory, relevant work experience significantly enhances your application, particularly if it aligns with the job offer's requirements. It can also help compensate for lower academic qualifications in your field of work.

Question 30

How do I prove sufficient maintenance funds if my employer covers the cost?

Accepted Answer

If your employer covers your maintenance costs, they must confirm this on your Certificate of Sponsorship. This removes the need to show personal funds, but ensure the CoS explicitly states this support to avoid application issues.

Skilled Worker visa FAQ

Featured Questions

What documents are required to prove my job offer from a UK employer?Documents00

What documents are required to prove my job offer from a UK employer?

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain it?General0

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain it?

Eligibility Questions

How can I qualify for permanent residency under the Skilled Worker visa?00

How can I qualify for permanent residency under the Skilled Worker visa?

Application Process Questions

What is the 'going rate' and how does it affect my application?00

What is the 'going rate' and how does it affect my application?

Can I apply for a Skilled Worker visa if my job is below RQF Level 3?0

Can I apply for a Skilled Worker visa if my job is below RQF Level 3?

Documents Questions

What documents are required to prove my job offer from a UK employer?00

What documents are required to prove my job offer from a UK employer?

What documents are required to prove English language proficiency?0

What documents are required to prove English language proficiency?

Costs Questions

What are the total costs involved in applying for a Skilled Worker visa?00

What are the total costs involved in applying for a Skilled Worker visa?

What are the costs associated with applying for a Skilled Worker visa?0

What are the costs associated with applying for a Skilled Worker visa?

Timeline Questions

How long does it typically take to process a Skilled Worker visa application?00

How long does it typically take to process a Skilled Worker visa application?

How long must I maintain the required maintenance funds in my account?0

How long must I maintain the required maintenance funds in my account?

After Application Questions

How can I apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after holding a Skilled Worker visa?00

How can I apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after holding a Skilled Worker visa?

What should I do if my personal circumstances change after applying?0

What should I do if my personal circumstances change after applying?

General Questions

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain it?00

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain it?

How do I demonstrate my English language proficiency for the Skilled Worker visa?

How do I demonstrate my English language proficiency for the Skilled Worker visa?

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How do I demonstrate my English language proficiency for the Skilled Worker visa?General00

How do I demonstrate my English language proficiency for the Skilled Worker visa?

How do I determine if my salary meets the 'going rate' for my job?General00

How do I determine if my salary meets the 'going rate' for my job?

What is the 'going rate' and how does it affect my application?Application Process00

What is the 'going rate' and how does it affect my application?

What documents are required to prove English language proficiency?Documents00

What documents are required to prove English language proficiency?

How long does it typically take to process a Skilled Worker visa application?Timeline00

How long does it typically take to process a Skilled Worker visa application?

Can I apply for a Skilled Worker visa if my job is below RQF Level 3?Application Process00

Can I apply for a Skilled Worker visa if my job is below RQF Level 3?

Can my family members join me in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?General00

Can my family members join me in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?

How long must I maintain the required maintenance funds in my account?Timeline00

How long must I maintain the required maintenance funds in my account?

What happens if my Skilled Worker visa application is refused?00

What happens if my Skilled Worker visa application is refused?

What should I do if my visa application is refused?00

What should I do if my visa application is refused?

What role does the Certificate of Sponsorship play in the application?00

What role does the Certificate of Sponsorship play in the application?

Is work experience mandatory for the Skilled Worker visa application?00

Is work experience mandatory for the Skilled Worker visa application?

How do I prove sufficient maintenance funds if my employer covers the cost?00

How do I prove sufficient maintenance funds if my employer covers the cost?

What is the timeline for processing a Skilled Worker visa application?00

What is the timeline for processing a Skilled Worker visa application?

How do I determine if my salary meets the 'going rate' for my job?00

How do I determine if my salary meets the 'going rate' for my job?

Can my family members join me in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?00

Can my family members join me in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?

What happens if my job offer's salary is below the required threshold?00

What happens if my job offer's salary is below the required threshold?

Do I need to provide proof of maintenance funds, and how much is required?00

Do I need to provide proof of maintenance funds, and how much is required?