How to Qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the UK Home Office. Below is a detailed step-by-step breakdown of the requirements:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from an Approved UK Employer

You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that is approved by the Home Office and holds a valid sponsor licence.

• The employer will act as your sponsor and provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
• The job must be listed as an eligible occupation under the Skilled Worker visa route.

Step 2: Ensure Your Job Meets Skill Level Requirements

Your job must meet the required skill level, which is at least RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels in the UK).

• You can check if your job is eligible by using its Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code.
• The SOC code ensures that your role matches one of the approved skilled occupations.

Step 3: Meet Salary Thresholds

You must be paid at least £38,700 per year or £15.88 per hour, or the “going rate” for your specific occupation—whichever is higher.

• If you are classified as a “new entrant” (e.g., under 26 years old or switching from a student visa), you may qualify for reduced salary thresholds of £30,960 per year or £11.90 per hour.
• Some exceptions apply for healthcare workers, education professionals, and PhD-level roles.

Step 4: Prove English Language Proficiency

You need to demonstrate English language skills at CEFR Level B1 (intermediate level).
This can be proven through one of the following:

• Being a national of an English-speaking country.
• Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
• Holding a degree taught in English.
• Meeting this requirement in previous visa applications.

Step 5: Financial Maintenance Requirement

You must show that you have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds.

• You need at least £1,270 available in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying unless your sponsor certifies maintenance on your CoS.
• This requirement may not apply if you’ve been living in the UK with a valid visa for over 12 months.

Step 6: Provide Required Documents

To apply for the Skilled Worker visa, you will need to submit:

1. Certificate of Sponsorship reference number provided by your employer.
2. Proof of knowledge of English, such as test results or academic qualifications.
3. Valid passport or travel document, with at least one blank page.
4. Evidence of meeting financial requirements (if applicable).
5. Details about your job title, annual salary, and occupation code.
6. Additional documents like tuberculosis test results (if required) and criminal record certificates for certain sectors like health and social care.

You may be interested in: UK Skilled Worker Visa: Complete Guide for 2025 [Last Updated]

Step 7: Pay Application Fees and Healthcare Surcharge

You must pay application fees ranging from £719 to £1,636 depending on factors like duration and location of application (inside or outside the UK).

• Additionally, pay an annual healthcare surcharge (£1,035 per year) to access NHS services during your stay.

Step 8: Apply Online and Wait for Decision

Submit your application online up to three months before starting work in the UK as stated on your CoS.

• Processing times are typically:
  • 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK, or
  • 8 weeks if applying within the UK.

If successful, you’ll receive permission to live and work in the UK under this visa.