Skilled Worker Visa
Guidance through every step from eligibility checks to document preparation and settlement, ensuring a smooth path to working in the UK.
Who Can Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a route for qualified professionals from outside the UK (excluding British and Irish citizens) to take up eligible jobs with approved UK employers.
The Skilled Worker route is designed to ensure that only roles meeting the UK’s current economic and skill needs can be filled by migrant workers. Successful applicants can work in the UK, bring eligible dependants, and apply for ILR.
What is a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is available to individuals of any nationality with a confirmed job offer for an eligible skilled position in the UK from a Home Office approved sponsor.
From 22 July 2025, the general minimum salary threshold for most roles has increased to £41,700 per year, with higher skill level requirements (RQF Level 6 or above). Exceptions apply for certain PhD-qualified applicants, new entrants, and roles on the Temporary Shortage List, which have lower thresholds.
What are the Salary Thresholds for Skilled Worker Visa?
You must have a confirmed job offer from an employer who holds a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence (with evidence of recruitment if applicable). The employer must appear on the official register of licensed sponsors.
The job offer must be genuine, meet skill and salary thresholds, and not be created solely to enable a visa application. Salary thresholds are:
- Standard rate – £41,700 or going rate, whichever is higher
- Relevant non-STEM PhD – £37,500 or 90% of going rate, must be directly relevant to the role
- STEM PhD, new entrant, or TSL role – £33,400 or going rate, lower rate but tighter eligibility
- Transitional extension (pre-April 2024 visa holders) – £31,300, valid until April 2030 if in same job/employer
The “going rate” is determined by the SOC code assigned to your role and is published by the Home Office. New entrants are defined as:
- Under 26 years old on the date of application, or
- Switching from student or graduate routes, or
- Working towards a recognised professional qualification
Recent Updates in Skilled Worker Visa Process
From 22 July 2025, the UK government introduced major changes for skilled migration:
- Skill Level Requirement Increased: Jobs must now be at RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or above, unless they are on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). Many mid-skill roles that previously qualified no longer do.
- Salary Thresholds Raised:
- Standard roles: £41,700 per year or the “going rate” for your occupation, whichever is higher.
- Relevant non-STEM PhD: £37,500 or 90% of the going rate.
- STEM PhD, new entrants, or TSL roles: £33,400 or the going rate.
- Transitional extensions for pre-April 2024 visa holders: £31,300 minimum, valid until April 2030 if staying in the same job with the same employer.
- Temporary Shortage List (TSL): It replaces the ISL & covers a small number of RQF 3–5 roles with lower salary thresholds but no dependant rights.
- Closure of Social Care Route: No new overseas applications for care workers. Those already in the UK on this route can extend or switch until 22 July 2028.
- Employer Costs Increased: Certificate of Sponsorship fee now £525; sponsor licence fees also higher.
Employers and applicants must now plan more carefully to meet the higher skill and salary thresholds.
UK Skilled Worker Visa – Comprehensive Guide (2026)
Overview of the Skilled Worker Route
The UK Skilled Worker visa allows overseas nationals to live and work in the United Kingdom in an eligible skilled role for a Home Office–licensed sponsor. Following reforms introduced after 2025, the route now places stronger emphasis on graduate-level occupations, higher salary thresholds, and stricter compliance controls for both applicants and employers.
Applicants must meet personal eligibility requirements and satisfy role-specific criteria, supported by a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by an approved UK employer. When used correctly, the Skilled Worker route remains one of the most reliable pathways to long-term residence and settlement in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Worker Visa
To qualify in 2026, applicants must meet mandatory Home Office requirements designed to ensure that sponsored roles are genuinely skilled, appropriately paid, and compliant with immigration policy.
- Eligibility is assessed by examining both the applicant’s background and the nature of the sponsored role.
Skill Level Requirement
- Most Skilled Worker roles must meet RQF Level 6, equivalent to graduate-level employment.
- These positions typically require degree-level qualifications or equivalent professional experience and are intended to attract skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the UK workforce.
- Roles below RQF Level 6 are only eligible if listed on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). These roles are time-limited, subject to frequent review, and carry additional restrictions, including a prohibition on bringing dependants.
- Transitional protections may apply to certain existing visa holders.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A valid Certificate of Sponsorship is essential to any Skilled Worker application. Issued electronically by a licensed sponsor, the CoS confirms that the role meets all immigration requirements.
It must accurately reflect the job title, correct SOC code, salary, working hours, and employment dates. The Home Office closely scrutinises CoS details, and inaccuracies frequently result in refusals. A CoS is valid for three months and must be used before expiry.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate English language ability at CEFR Level B2 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This requirement reflects the Home Office’s focus on professional communication and integration.
English proficiency can be proven by passing an approved Secure English Language Test, holding a degree taught in English, or being a national of a recognised majority English-speaking country. Failure to meet this requirement will result in refusal.
Financial Maintenance Requirement
- Unless exempt, applicants must show they can support themselves without accessing public funds.
- This requires holding £1,270 for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
- Additional funds are required for dependants unless the sponsor certifies maintenance on the CoS or the applicant has lawfully resided in the UK for at least 12 months.
- Financial documents must be correctly dated and issued by regulated financial institutions.
Criminal Record and TB Requirements
Applicants working in health, education, or social care roles must provide a criminal record certificate. In addition, applicants from listed countries must submit a valid tuberculosis test certificate. These requirements are mandatory where applicable and cannot be waived.
Job Requirements Under the Skilled Worker Route
Meeting personal eligibility requirements alone is insufficient. The sponsored role itself must comply fully with Home Office rules.
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code
Each role must be assigned the correct SOC code, accurately reflecting actual job duties. The Home Office cross-checks descriptions, and mismatches are among the most common refusal reasons. Inflating responsibilities to meet eligibility thresholds may be treated as misrepresentation.
Eligible Occupations
In 2026, most eligible occupations fall within RQF Level 6, including roles in healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and other regulated sectors. Temporary Shortage List roles remain eligible at lower skill levels but are subject to tighter controls.
Approved UK Sponsor
Employers must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence and comply with ongoing Home Office duties, including record-keeping and reporting changes. If a sponsor licence is suspended or revoked, visa holders are usually given 60 days to find a new sponsor or leave the UK.
Salary Requirements (2026 Thresholds)
- Salary thresholds remain significantly higher following post-2025 reforms.
- Most new Skilled Worker applicants must meet a minimum salary of £41,700 per year, or the role’s going rate, whichever is higher.
- Reduced thresholds apply in limited circumstances, including for relevant PhD holders, STEM roles, and New Entrants. Roles on national pay scales, such as NHS and teaching positions, are assessed using those scales.
- Transitional arrangements may still apply to some existing visa holders.
Skilled Worker Visa Fees and Costs (2026)
Applicant and Sponsor Costs Overview
| Cost Category | Amount (2026) | Payable By |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker visa (up to 3 years) | £719–£827 | Applicant |
| Skilled Worker visa (over 3 years) | £1,420–£1,636 | Applicant |
| Temporary Shortage List visa | £551–£1,084 | Applicant |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year | Applicant |
| Certificate of Sponsorship fee | £525 | Sponsor |
| Immigration Skills Charge (large sponsors) | £1,000 per year | Sponsor |
| Immigration Skills Charge (small/charity) | £364 per year | Sponsor |
| Priority service (optional) | £500 | Applicant |
| Super Priority service (optional) | £1,000 | Applicant |
Most fees become non-refundable once biometric information has been submitted.
Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
The Temporary Shortage List allows sponsorship of certain RQF Level 3–5 roles on a temporary basis. While visa fees are lower, dependants are not permitted, and roles are reviewed frequently.
This route is generally unsuitable for applicants seeking long-term settlement or family migration.
Bringing Dependants Under the Skilled Worker Route
Dependants may include spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners (with two years’ cohabitation), and dependent children. Dependants are prohibited where the main applicant’s role is on the TSL.
Where permitted, dependants can usually work and study and may qualify for settlement after five years.
Financial Evidence and Common Refusal Reasons
Applicants must provide compliant financial evidence where required. Refusals commonly arise from insufficient balances, incorrect holding periods, unregulated banks, or inconsistent documentation. Careful preparation is essential.
Extending a Skilled Worker Visa
Skilled Worker visas can be extended multiple times, provided eligibility continues. Extensions require a new CoS, continued sponsorship in the same SOC code, and compliance with salary thresholds. There is no maximum length of stay.
Switching Employers or Roles
A new application is required if the applicant changes employer, SOC code, or experiences a material change in job duties. Extensions apply only when remaining in the same sponsored role.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit a valid passport, CoS reference, proof of salary, English language evidence, and financial documents where applicable. Additional documents may include TB certificates or criminal record checks.
Pathway to Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
Time spent on the Skilled Worker route usually counts towards Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years. Applicants must meet salary thresholds, pass the Life in the UK Test, and satisfy English language requirements. Proposed future reforms do not currently affect existing Skilled Worker visa holders.
How to Bring Family Members on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Dependants may be eligible to join or stay in the UK depending on their relationship to the main Skilled Worker. Certain rules also apply to Temporary Shortage List (TSL) roles.
- Partner: spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner (living together for at least 2 years)
- Children under 18, including those born in the UK during your stay
- Children over 18 already in the UK as your dependant
- Proof of relationship is required, such as marriage/birth certificates or tenancy agreements
- TSL roles: dependants cannot join or remain under this route from 22 July 2025
- Existing dependant visa holders before 22 July 2025 are unaffected
- Dependants of standard Skilled Worker roles (RQF 6+) are not affected
These rules ensure dependants’ eligibility is clearly defined while maintaining workforce flexibility.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Skilled Worker Visa
1. Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure you have a job offer from an approved sponsor.
- Meet skill level, salary, and English language requirements.
- Check criminal record, TB test, and financial maintenance rules.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Your employer must assign a valid CoS before applying.
- CoS contains a unique reference number, valid for 3 months.
- Details (job title, SOC code, salary) must match your application.
3. Complete the Online Application Form
- Apply via the official UK Government website.
- Use your CoS number; accuracy is crucial to avoid refusal.
- Form differs for inside vs. outside UK applicants.
4. Pay Fees and Healthcare Surcharge
- Application fee is calculated based on job category and visa length.
- Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) must be paid online.
- Fees are payable by debit or credit card before submission.
5. Submit Documents, Biometrics, and Receive Decision
- Upload clear, color copies of all documents online with certified translations if needed.
- Attend biometric appointments or use the ID Check app if eligible.
- Wait for the decision and collect your visa vignette or BRP/eVisa as applicable.
Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) for Skilled Worker Visa
1. Purpose of the IHS
- Mandatory for most UK visa applicants, including Skilled Worker visas.
- Provides access to the NHS for the duration of your stay.
- Some services like prescriptions, dental, and optical care may still have extra charges.
2. Current Rate
- £1,035 per year per applicant, paid upfront for the full visa duration.
- Calculated in 6-month increments; partial years are rounded up.
- Example: 3-year visa = £3,105, 5-year visa = £5,175 per person.
3. Who Must Pay
- All Skilled Worker main applicants.
- Each dependant included in the application (partner and children).
- Payment is due at the point of online application before submission.
4. Exemptions and Refunds
- Exempt if applying as a health and care worker in qualifying NHS roles or as their dependant.
- Exempt if applying for asylum or humanitarian protection.
- Partial or full refunds given if refused or withdrawn, except for leaving the UK early.
5. Payment Process
- Calculated automatically in the online visa application.
- Paid using a debit or credit card during application submission.
- Must be fully paid before the Home Office processes the application.
6. Practical Advice
- Ensure your card can cover both the IHS and visa application fee in one session.
- Calculate total cost if applying with dependants to avoid payment issues.
- Keep the payment confirmation email as proof in case of errors.
Why Clients Trust Us for Skilled Worker Visas?
We have helped countless clients achieve their goals of living and working in the United Kingdom with our unwavering attention to detail and expert guidance. We offer:
In-depth knowledge of UK immigration law
Contact us today for expert guidance on your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
Simplify Your Skilled Worker Visa Process
Securing a Skilled Worker Visa can be a daunting prospect, with the UK Home Office eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.
At Axis Solicitors, we understand the challenges you face and provide the expert guidance you need to navigate this complex process with confidence.
Our highly skilled UK immigration solicitors can guide you through every step of your visa application. Our track record speaks for itself, with a consistently high success rate for Skilled Worker Visa applications.
Expert Support for Skilled Worker Visa UK
We offer detailed, expert advice on all aspects of UK immigration law, ensuring you understand your options and requirements.
- Carefully assess your circumstances to determine your eligibility for the specific visa you wish to apply for.
- Explain the entire visa application process, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect at each stage.
- Provide you with a checklist of required documents based on your visa type.
- Complete your visa application form, ensuring all details are accurate and in line with the latest Immigration Rules.
- Arrange your biometric enrolment appointment, guiding you through this crucial step in the application process.
- Manage all communication with the Home Office UKVI throughout the application process.
- Provide updates at every stage of your application, so you always know the status of your case.
FAQ: Skilled Worker Visa UK
To be eligible for a skilled worker visa, you must have a job offer from a UK employer and a valid Certificate of Sponsorship. You will also need to pass the UK Points-Based System (UK PBS) test, which assesses your qualifications, work experience, and English language skills.
A UK Skilled Worker Visa allows you to live and work in the United Kingdom for up to 5 years, provided you continue to work for your sponsoring employer and meet the visa requirements. After holding the visa for 5 years, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), granting you permanent residence in the UK.
There is no specific limit to the number of times you can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa extension in the UK, as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria outlined in Appendix Skilled Worker of the Immigration Rules. Each extension application will be assessed on its own merits, and you will need to demonstrate that you still qualify for the visa. This includes having a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer, meeting the salary requirements, and maintaining the appropriate level of English language proficiency.
You can bring your family on a skilled worker visa. They will need to apply for a dependent visa.
Changing Jobs on a UK Skilled Worker Visa
Same Employer, Same SOC Code:
You can change roles within your current company without a new visa.
Employer must notify the Home Office of job title and duty changes.
Different Employer or SOC Code:
Requires a new Skilled Worker visa application.
Must obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the new employer.
Must meet all eligibility criteria (salary threshold, skill level).
Transition Benefits:
You can continue working in your current role while your new visa is processed.
Ensure approval before starting with the new employer.
Important:
Working without the correct visa can lead to visa revocation or deportation.