UK Skilled Worker Visa: Complete Guide for 2025 [Last Updated]

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a points-based immigration pathway designed for qualified professionals to work in the UK for an approved employer. In light of significant changes implemented during 2024 and anticipated for 2025, understanding the current requirements is essential to the success of your application. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility criteria, application procedures, associated costs, and the latest policy updates affecting skilled workers seeking work in the UK.

What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker visa is the UK’s primary work visa category designed for international skilled professionals who want to work in the United Kingdom. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 as part of the UK’s post-Brexit immigration system.

This visa is specifically intended for qualified individuals who have received a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship license. The position must meet minimum skill and salary requirements, demonstrating that the role genuinely requires the skills and qualifications of the applicant.

The Skilled Worker visa offers numerous benefits, including:

• The right to work in the UK for your sponsoring employer
• The ability to bring eligible dependents (spouse/partner and children under 18) to the UK
• The opportunity to study alongside your work
• Access to NHS healthcare (after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge)
• A clear pathway to settlement after 5 years of continuous residency

Unlike some previous work visa categories, there is no cap on the number of Skilled Worker visas that can be issued, and there is no requirement for employers to prove they couldn’t find a suitable UK worker before hiring internationally (the Resident Labour Market Test was abolished).

Key Changes & Updates 2025

The UK’s immigration system has undergone significant changes in recent years, with several important updates affecting Skilled Worker visa applicants and their sponsors. Here’s what you need to know about the current situation and what to expect in the near future.

Current Salary Thresholds (Updated April 2025)

One of the most significant changes has been the increase in salary thresholds. As of April 2025, applicants must generally meet the following salary requirements:

• General minimum salary threshold: £38,700 per year (increased from £26,200)
• Occupation-specific ‘going rate’: This varies by occupation and is typically based on the 25th percentile of UK earnings for that role

Applicants must meet both the general threshold and their occupation’s specific going rate to qualify. However, there are some exceptions and reductions available for certain roles and circumstances, particularly for those on the Immigration Salary List.

New Immigration Salary List (ISL) replaces Shortage Occupation List (SOL)

In April 2025, the UK government replaced the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) with the new Immigration Salary List (ISL). This change was more than just a rebranding—it significantly altered how salary discounts are applied.

Key differences include:

• The ISL offers a 20% discount on the general salary threshold for eligible occupations (down from the previous 20-30% discount under the SOL)
• The list of eligible occupations has been significantly reduced
• Each occupation on the ISL is now subject to review every three years
• Some healthcare and education roles maintain additional salary concessions

This change has reduced the number of jobs eligible for discounted salary thresholds, making it more challenging for some sectors to recruit international talent.

Increased Visa Fees & IHS Surcharge (Effective January 2025)

Visa application costs have seen substantial increases, reflecting the UK government’s policy to make immigration self-funding. The most recent fee increases took effect in January 2025:

These increases significantly impact the overall cost of relocating to the UK, particularly for applicants bringing dependents, who also need to pay these fees.

Anticipated Changes for 2025 (Based on Official Announcements)

According to Home Office statements and the UK government’s published immigration plans, the following changes are expected throughout 2025:

• Further streamlining of the sponsorship process for employers, with enhanced digital tools and platforms
• Additional integration of immigration applications with HMRC (tax) systems to automate employment verification
• Potential extension of the “High Potential Individual” route to include graduates from more international universities
• More regular reviews of the Immigration Salary List, potentially reducing the list further
• Introduction of new monitoring mechanisms for sponsor compliance

The UK government has also indicated a continued commitment to reducing overall net migration numbers, which may result in further policy tightening for skilled worker routes.

Impact of Changes on Applicants & Sponsors

These changes create several important implications:

For applicants:

• Higher financial barrier to entry due to increased fees and salary requirements
• Fewer occupations eligible for salary discounts
• Need for stronger evidence of skills and qualifications

For sponsors:

• Increased compliance requirements and costs
• More complex salary calculations when assessing candidate eligibility
• Need for robust HR systems to track sponsored workers

For verification of the latest requirements, always check the official GOV.UK guidance.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants (Detailed Checklist)

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must satisfy several key requirements. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you’ll need:

Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

You must have a job offer from an employer with a valid UK sponsorship license. The employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) that describes your role, salary, and other details. This digital certificate contains a unique reference number that you’ll need for your visa application.

Key points:

• The CoS must be issued no more than 3 months before your application
• Your sponsor must be approved by the Home Office and listed on the register of licensed sponsors
• The CoS must contain accurate details about your role, location, and salary

Appropriate Skill Level (RQF Level 3+)

Your job must require a skill level of at least RQF Level 3 (roughly equivalent to A-level qualifications in the UK). This doesn’t necessarily mean you need formal qualifications at this level, but rather that the job itself requires skills at this level or higher.

Examples of jobs at RQF Level 3 or above include:

• IT technicians
• Laboratory technicians
• Chefs
• Skilled trades (electricians, plumbers)
• Office managers
• Sales executives

Jobs that typically fall below RQF Level 3 and are generally not eligible include:

• General waiting staff
• Retail assistants
• Cleaners
• Security guards (without specialized training)

Salary Requirements

As detailed earlier, you must meet both:

1. The general threshold (currently £38,700 per year)
2. The ‘going rate’ for your specific occupation

The going rate is typically set at the 25th percentile of UK salaries for your occupation code. Your annual salary is calculated based on guaranteed basic gross pay (before tax) and guaranteed allowances. Overtime, bonuses, and benefits-in-kind are not counted.

Salary reductions are available for:

• Jobs on the Immigration Salary List (20% reduction)
• New entrants to the labor market (30% reduction)
• Healthcare and education roles (specific exceptions)
• PhD-level occupations (10-20% reduction depending on relevance)

English Language Proficiency

You must demonstrate English language ability at level B1 (intermediate) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be proven through:

• Passing an approved English language test (such as IELTS for UKVI with scores of at least 4.0 in each component)
• Having a degree taught in English (verified by UK NARIC/ENIC)
• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand)

Financial Requirement (Maintenance Funds)

You must show you can support yourself in the UK. This requires having at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days up to 31 days before applying.

However, you may be exempt from this requirement if:

• You’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months
• Your sponsor certifies on the CoS that they will support you if necessary (known as the ‘A-rating’)

Tuberculosis (TB) Test

If you’re resident in certain countries, you’ll need to provide a certificate showing you’re free from active tuberculosis. The test must be conducted at an approved center. Countries requiring TB tests include:

• Most African nations
• Many Asian countries including China, India, Pakistan, Philippines
• Some South American countries

Criminal Record Certificate

For certain occupations involving vulnerable people, you may need to provide a criminal record certificate. This applies to roles in:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Social services

How to Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa (Step-by-Step)

The application process for a Skilled Worker visa involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigate through each stage:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

The first and most critical step is to find a job with a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship license. Once they decide to hire you, they will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) through their sponsorship management system.

The CoS contains:

• A unique reference number
• Details about your role and salary
• Confirmation that the role meets the requirements
• Your personal information

Keep the CoS reference number safe—you’ll need it for your application. Note that the CoS is not a physical certificate but a digital record.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Before starting your application, collect all required documentation:

Essential documents:

• Valid passport or travel document
• CoS reference number
• Proof of English language proficiency
• TB test certificate (if applicable)
• Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
• Evidence of funds (bank statements showing at least £1,270 for 28 consecutive days)
• Academic qualifications (if relevant to your job offer)

Additional documents you may need:

• ATAS certificate (for certain sensitive subject areas)
• Professional accreditation or registration (for regulated professions)
• Translations of any documents not in English or Welsh

Ensure all documents are in the correct format and meet the specific requirements detailed in the official guidance.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official UK government website to start your application:

• If applying from outside the UK: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/apply-from-outside-the-uk
• If applying from inside the UK: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/switch-to-this-visa

The online form will ask for:

• Personal details
• Passport information
• Travel history
• CoS reference number
• Employment details
• Dependents’ information (if applicable)

Be thorough and accurate—any discrepancies could lead to delays or rejection.

Step 4: Pay the Fees (Visa Fee & IHS)

During the application process, you’ll need to pay:

• The visa application fee
• The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for yourself and any dependents

These payments are made online as part of your application. Ensure you have sufficient funds available on your payment card.

Step 5: Prove Your Identity (Biometrics/App)

After submitting your application:

If applying from outside the UK:

• Attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
• Submit your supporting documents

If applying from inside the UK:

• You may be able to use the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app to scan your biometric residence permit or passport
• If your identity document isn’t compatible with the app, you’ll need to attend a UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) appointment

Step 6: Await the Decision

After completing all steps, you’ll need to wait for a decision. Standard processing times are:

• From outside the UK: Usually within 3 weeks
• From inside the UK: Usually within 8 weeks

You can opt for priority services to receive a faster decision (at additional cost). You’ll be contacted by email once a decision is made, with instructions on how to collect your visa or biometric residence permit.

Costs and Fees Explained (Updated April 2025)

Understanding the full financial commitment is crucial when planning your move to the UK. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of all costs associated with the Skilled Worker visa:

Additional potential costs:

• English language test: £150-£200
• TB test (if required): £50-£150
• Document translation: varies by language and length
• Travel to visa application center: varies by location
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): £279 (usually paid by employer)

Total minimum cost example: For a 5-year Skilled Worker visa applied for from outside the UK:

• Application fee: £1,897
• IHS (5 years): £5,175
• Total: £7,072 (excluding additional costs)

For a family of four (two adults, two children) on a 5-year visa:

• Application fees: £7,588
• IHS: £20,700
• Total: £28,288 (excluding additional costs)

Who pays what?

• The applicant is responsible for the application fee and IHS
• The sponsor typically pays for the CoS
• Some employers offer relocation packages that cover all or part of these costs, but this is not required by law

For UK Employers: Sponsoring Skilled Workers

If you’re a UK employer looking to sponsor skilled workers from abroad, there are several important processes and responsibilities to understand.

Becoming a Licensed Sponsor

Before you can sponsor any workers, you must obtain a sponsorship license from the Home Office:

1. Check eligibility: Ensure your business is eligible and has appropriate systems in place to manage sponsored workers
2. Choose the correct license type: For Skilled Worker visas, you need a “Worker” license
3. Prepare your application: Gather required documentation showing your business is genuine and capable of sponsoring workers
4. Apply online: Complete the application form and pay the fee (£536 for small businesses, £1,476 for medium/large businesses)
5. Await a decision: The Home Office may visit your premises to verify your business
6. License granted: Valid for 4 years, after which renewal is required

The process typically takes 8 weeks, though priority service is available for an additional fee.

Assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once licensed, you can issue Certificates of Sponsorship to prospective employees:

Defined CoS: For overseas applicants. Requires approval from the Home Office for each individual case.

• Apply through the Sponsorship Management System (SMS)
• Provide details about the role and why it meets the requirements
• Receive approval before assigning to the worker
• Pay £239 per CoS

Undefined CoS: For workers already in the UK switching to a Skilled Worker visa.

• Allocated annually as part of your license
• Can be assigned directly without prior approval
• Pay £239 per CoS

Each CoS must accurately reflect the genuine details of the job offer, including:

• Job title and occupation code
• Salary and working hours
• Work location
• Skills, qualifications, and experience required

Sponsor Duties and Compliance

As a sponsor, you have significant legal responsibilities:

Record-keeping duties:

• Maintain copies of relevant documents (passports, right to work checks, qualifications)
• Keep contact details up to date
• Retain records of employee attendance and absences

Reporting duties:

• Report to the Home Office if a sponsored worker doesn’t start work
• Report unauthorized absences or changes in circumstances
• Notify of significant changes to job role or location
• Report if employment ends earlier than planned

Compliance monitoring:

• The Home Office can conduct compliance visits at any time
• Ensure all sponsored workers are compliant with their visa conditions
• Maintain appropriate HR systems to track sponsored employees

Failure to meet these obligations can result in downgrading or revocation of your sponsorship license, which would affect all your sponsored workers.

Processing Times

Understanding likely processing times helps with planning your move or hiring strategy:

Standard processing times:

• Applications from outside the UK: 3 weeks for 90% of applications
• Applications from inside the UK: 8 weeks for 90% of applications

Faster services available:

• Priority service: Decision within 5 working days (£500 extra)
• Super Priority service: Decision by the end of the next working day (£800 extra)

Factors affecting processing times:

• Application volume and seasonal fluctuations
• Complexity of your circumstances
• Whether further information or an interview is required
• Global events or policy changes

Important note: Processing times are not guaranteed and can change due to unforeseen circumstances. Always check the current processing times on the GOV.UK visa processing times page.

Bringing Dependents (Partners & Children)

One of the advantages of the Skilled Worker visa is the ability to bring family members to the UK.

Eligible Dependents

You can bring the following dependents:

• Your spouse or civil partner
• Your unmarried partner (if you’ve been living together for at least 2 years)
• Your children under 18 years old
• In some cases, adult dependents who require long-term care

Application Process for Dependents

Dependents can apply:

• Together with your application
• Separately at a later date

They will need to provide:

• Proof of their relationship to you (marriage certificate, birth certificates)
• Proof of living together (for unmarried partners)
• Biometric information
• TB test results (if applicable)

Costs for Dependents

Each dependent must pay:

• Application fee: Same as the main applicant (£959 for up to 3 years, £1,897 for more than 3 years)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year per person

Rights of Dependents

Once in the UK, your dependents can:

• Work (with no restrictions)
• Study
• Access NHS healthcare
• Travel in and out of the UK

Extending Dependent Visas

When you extend your Skilled Worker visa, your dependents can extend their visas for the same period. If your visa leads to settlement, your dependents may also be eligible for settlement after 5 years.

After Getting the Visa: Rights and Path to Settlement (ILR)

Once you arrive in the UK with your Skilled Worker visa, it’s important to understand your rights and potential pathway to permanent residence.

Your Rights as a Skilled Worker

With a valid Skilled Worker visa, you can:

• Work for your sponsoring employer in the specific role described in your CoS
• Take on additional supplementary work (up to 20 hours per week) in certain circumstances
• Study (with no restrictions, except for certain sensitive subjects)
• Travel in and out of the UK
• Access NHS healthcare (after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge)
• Rent property
• Open bank accounts
• Bring eligible family members to join you

Restrictions to Be Aware Of

There are some limitations:

• You cannot work for an employer other than your sponsor (except for supplementary work)
• You cannot access public funds (such as most benefits)
• You must inform the Home Office of certain changes in circumstances
• You must maintain valid immigration status at all times

Switching Employers

If you want to change jobs, you’ll need to:

1. Find another employer with a valid sponsorship license
2. Receive a new Certificate of Sponsorship
3. Apply for a new Skilled Worker visa or visa update
4. Wait for approval before starting the new job

The only exception is if the new job is with the same employer but involves a different role or location—in this case, your employer may only need to notify the Home Office rather than requiring a completely new application.

Path to Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa (or combination of eligible work visas), you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which grants permanent residence. To qualify:

1. Time requirement: You must have spent 5 years in the UK on eligible visas
2. Continuous residence: You must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period
3. Current employment: You must still be employed by a licensed sponsor and earning at least the minimum salary threshold
4. English language: You must meet a higher English language requirement (CEFR B1)
5. Life in the UK test: You must pass this test on British values, history, and traditions
6. No criminal record: You must have no serious criminal convictions
7. Application fee: Currently £2,885 per person

After obtaining ILR, you can:

• Live and work in the UK without any time limit
• Access public funds and benefits
• Apply for British citizenship (usually after 12 months)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Yes, you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa from most visa categories while remaining in the UK, including:

• Student visas
• Graduate visa
• Intra-company Transfer visa
• T2 Minister of Religion visa
• International Sportsperson visa
• Start-up or Innovator visa

However, you cannot switch from:

• Visitor visas
• Short-term study visas
• Parent of a Child Student visa
• Seasonal Worker visa
• Domestic Worker visa

What happens if my salary is below the threshold but my job is on the Immigration Salary List (ISL)?

If your job is on the Immigration Salary List, you may benefit from a 20% discount on the general salary threshold (currently £38,700). This means you would need to earn at least £30,960. However, you must still meet the ‘going rate’ for your specific occupation, which may be higher than this discounted threshold.

How long is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) valid?

A Certificate of Sponsorship is valid for 3 months from the date it is assigned. You must apply for your visa using this CoS before it expires. The start date on your CoS determines when you can begin working in the UK.

What happens if I lose my job?

If your employment ends prematurely:

• Your sponsor must report this to the Home Office
• Your visa will usually be curtailed (shortened), typically giving you 60 days to find another sponsor or leave the UK
• During this period, you can apply for a new Skilled Worker visa with a different sponsor
• If you find a new sponsor within the 60-day period, you can remain in the UK while your new application is processed

Can I do a second job alongside my sponsored role?

Yes, you can undertake supplementary work in addition to your main job, provided:

• It’s no more than 20 hours per week
• It’s either in the same profession as your main job or on the Skilled Worker occupation list
• It doesn’t interfere with your main job

You don’t need a separate sponsor or CoS for supplementary work, but both jobs must meet the skill level requirements.

Can I bring my elderly parents as dependents?

Generally, elderly parents do not qualify as dependents under the Skilled Worker visa. However, they may be eligible to apply under the “Adult Dependent Relative” route if they:

• Require long-term personal care due to age, illness, or disability
• Are unable to receive adequate care in their home country
• Will be financially supported by you without recourse to public funds

This is a separate application with strict criteria and high evidence requirements.

Can I study while on a Skilled Worker visa?

Yes, there are no restrictions on studying while on a Skilled Worker visa. You can pursue part-time or full-time courses, including degrees, diplomas, or vocational training. The only exception is for courses in certain sensitive subjects that require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

Do I need to prove my qualifications for the Skilled Worker visa?

Not necessarily. The focus is on the skill level of the job rather than your personal qualifications. However:

• If your job is in a regulated profession (like medicine, law, or teaching), you’ll need to prove you meet the professional requirements
• Your sponsor may need to explain how they determined you have the skills for the role
• In some cases, especially for higher-paying roles, providing evidence of relevant qualifications can strengthen your application

Alternatives to the Skilled Worker Visa

While the Skilled Worker visa is the main work route for most international professionals, there are several alternatives worth considering depending on your circumstances:

Global Talent Visa

Designed for leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts and culture, or digital technology.

• No job offer required
• Flexible working arrangements (no specific sponsor)
• Faster route to settlement (3 years in most cases)
• Higher application threshold (endorsement from relevant body required)

Health and Care Worker Visa

A subcategory of the Skilled Worker visa specifically for qualified healthcare professionals.

• Lower visa fees
• Faster processing times
• Dedicated support
• Must have a job offer from the NHS, an NHS supplier, or the adult social care sector

Scale-up Visa

For talented individuals joining fast-growing UK businesses.

• Initial 2-year visa with sponsorship
• After 6 months, no longer tied to sponsor
• Can be extended for 3 years without sponsorship
• Requires high-skill job offer from qualifying Scale-up company

High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

For recent graduates of top global universities.

• No job offer or sponsorship required
• 2-year visa (3 years for PhD graduates)
• Unrestricted work and study rights
• Must have graduated from an eligible university within the last 5 years

Graduate Visa

For international students who’ve completed a UK degree.

• 2-year visa (3 years for PhD graduates)
• No sponsorship required
• Work, look for work, or start a business
• Non-extendable; must switch to another visa category to stay longer

Innovator Founder Visa

For experienced entrepreneurs setting up an innovative business in the UK.

• Requires an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea
• Needs endorsement from an approved body
• Investment funds of at least £50,000 required
• Can lead to settlement after 3 years

Conclusion

The UK Skilled Worker Visa offers valuable opportunities for international professionals looking to build a career in the UK. However, as we have seen, this field is constantly evolving, with significant changes expected throughout 2025.

When planning your application, remember these key points:

• Stay informed about the latest salary thresholds and Immigration Salary List updates
• Budget carefully for the increased fees and Immigration Health Surcharge
• Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying
• Work closely with your sponsoring employer to navigate the process
• Consider the long-term path to settlement when making your plans

While this guide provides comprehensive information, immigration policies can change rapidly. Always verify the latest requirements and procedures on the official GOV.UK website before proceeding with your application.

For those who may not qualify for the Skilled Worker route, explore the alternative visa options mentioned above, which might better suit your specific circumstances and career goals.

Taking the time to understand the UK’s immigration system thoroughly will significantly improve your chances of a successful application and a smooth transition to life and work in the United Kingdom.

Disclaimer: This information is accurate as of April 2025 but is subject to change. Always verify details with official sources before making any application decisions.