The Skilled Worker visa is the UK’s main employer‑sponsored work route, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa. It offers an opportunity for individuals who wish to work and live in the UK, allowing them to enter the country with a job offer from a UK employer, while also paving the way for permanent residence, known as Indefinite Leave to Remain.
With this article, we aim to guide you through the UK Skilled Worker visa, covering key points such as eligibility criteria, rights attached to the visa, and the conditions for bringing dependants.
We will also explore more critical but less talked-about aspects, such as changing jobs under this visa, its relation to residency and citizenship rights, and, last but not least, what you can expect in terms of Skilled Worker visa processing time.
We believe that whether you are a new entrant, looking to switch from another visa, wishing to extend your visa, or applying for ILR, having a broad understanding of the rules, regulations, and entitlements surrounding the Skilled Worker Visa is vital for making informed decisions about your next UK visa application.
How Can Immigration Connection Assist You in your Skilled Worker Visa Application?
In today’s increasingly connected world, understanding immigration laws and policies can require significant research, especially when you’re seeking to work in the UK. The UK Skilled Worker visa offers a valuable opportunity for those looking to build a new life in the UK. With a job offer from a UK employer, a Skilled Worker visa opens the door to not only employment but also a fresh start in a new country. We understand how overwhelming this process can be, but we’re here to guide you through it.
With extensive research and over a decade of experience in immigration law and business consulting, we assist employers with sponsor licence applications and represent Skilled Worker visa applicants.
Our expert immigration consultants will prepare you for your journey by helping you understand the application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, and related procedures while giving you an overview of the next steps in your immigration journey.
We will guide you through your application process step by step, taking the stress out of your journey. We offer advice sessions and full application packages at affordable fees with transparent payment plans.
Get in touch now for a free consultation via email, phone or live chat or fill in our inquiry form.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa
The UK Skilled Worker visa allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for an approved employer. To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a UK-based company with a valid sponsor licence. This visa is designed for skilled roles, and applicants must meet specific criteria, including language proficiency, salary thresholds, and a points-based system. The Skilled Worker Visa not only permits individuals to live and work in the UK but also provides a pathway to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after five years, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term opportunities in the country.
2025 Update: As of 22 July 2025, the route generally permits RQF 6 (degree-level) roles, with limited exceptions for specified health and education occupations, and for roles listed on the Immigration Salary List (ISL)/Temporary Shortage List (TSL) or where transitional protections apply.
What can Skilled Worker Visa holders do
Holders of the Skilled Worker Visa can work in an eligible job, study, and bring dependants if they meet eligibility criteria. They can also undertake additional work in certain circumstances, engage in voluntary work, and travel abroad and return to the UK. After five years, they may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, which gives them the right to live, work, and study in the UK permanently with no time limits.
2025 Update: Where a worker is sponsored in RQF 3–5 roles on the ISL/TSL with a CoS dated on/after 22 July 2025, dependants are generally not permitted (transitional arrangements protect the right of those already in the route before that date).
Basic Overview of the Points-Based System
Under the UK’s points-based immigration system, visas are granted based on meeting specific requirements, each contributing to a minimum point threshold. To be eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must score a total of 70 points, which are divided into mandatory and tradeable criteria.
How long does a UK Skilled Worker last
Although it is generally regarded as a long-term visa, its length is not specified, and it can be of any duration, typically in 6-month increments, for up to 5 years. Additionally, it can be extended for up to a further 5 years.
You can extend as many times as needed while you continue to meet the rules, and after 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for ILR.
Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Worker Visa
General Requirements
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must be at least 18 years of age and have no relevant unspent convictions or other grounds for refusal. In addition to these, there are further requirements an individual is expected to meet.
Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor at a Specified Skill Level
You need an eligible job offer from an employer who is on the list of licensed sponsors approved by the Home Office. The offer must be for an eligible occupation, and the employer must have issued you a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The job for which you are being employed must meet the skill level requirement: at least equivalent to RQF level 6. This is equivalent to UK graduate levels. Exceptions may apply if the job is on the Immigration Salary List, or on the new Temporary Shortage List for RQF 3-5 level jobs, or covered by a transitional provision for those already on the route.
The RQF6+ degree level or above jobs apply to new grants from 22 July 2025; sub‑degree roles only qualify if listed on ISL/TSL or if transitional rules protect you.
English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate English language proficiency at a minimum of level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (B1 CEFR) across all four components: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This can be shown in several ways, such as being from a Majority English Speaking Country, holding a UK bachelor’s degree or higher, or an equivalent qualification taught in English (as confirmed by ECCTIS if obtained outside the UK), or passing an Approved English Test at a certified centre.
Salary Requirement
You must be paid at least £41,700 per year or the going rate (based on ASHE 2024) for your job, whichever is higher. If your Certificate of Sponsorship was issued before July 22, 2025, transitional salary rules apply, even if you have submitted your application at a later date. Please note that different provisions are also in place for PhD graduates, new-entrants, students and graduates. Check when you can be paid less.
Financial Requirements
You must have £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK. Alternatively, if your company confirms maintenance or you have been living in the UK for more than 12 consecutive months immediately preceding your application, the financial requirement is also considered to be met. Maintenance funds for dependants are typically £285 (partner), £315 (first child) and £200 (each additional child) unless exempt or certified.
Scoring Points
A total of 70 points is needed to be eligible for the Skilled Worker visa. Points are awarded for having a job offer from a licensed sponsor, a job at the appropriate skill level, and meeting the English language requirements. Additional points can be gained through salary thresholds.
Dependants on a Skilled Worker Visa
Can I Bring My Dependants?
Your spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, and children can join you in the UK as your dependents if they meet the eligibility criteria. For medium-skill roles RQF 3–5, dependants can only apply if the primary applicant’s first CoS was before 22 July 2025, and they have continuous Skilled Worker status. Each family member must submit a separate application. If approved, their visas will generally expire on the same date as yours.
For RQF 3–5 roles sponsored via ISL/TSL on or after 22 July 2025, dependants are not permitted (subject to transitional protections).
Who Can Be Included as Dependents on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Dependents include and are limited to: your spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, children under 18, and children over 18 if they are currently in the UK as your dependents. Children may also be subject to further rules and regulations.
What are the Requirements for Bringing Dependents on a Skilled Worker Visa?
To bring your dependants, you must provide evidence of your relationship, such as marriage certificates or proof of cohabitation for at least two years. Your dependants must live with you unless they are away at school or university. Additionally, your children should not be married or in a civil partnership. If you are extending or switching your visa, your dependents can apply at the same time or at any point during your visa period. If they are in the UK, they must apply before their existing visa expires.
Get in touch now for a free consultation via email, phone or live chat or fill in our inquiry form.
Changing Jobs
Can I Change Jobs Under the Skilled Worker Visa
If you are considering changing jobs under the Skilled Worker Visa, it is possible, but certain conditions must be met. If your new job is with a different employer or involves a different occupation code, you will need to apply to update your visa. However, if the new job is with the same employer and is considered under the same Standard Occupation Code (SOC) as your current role, you may not need to submit a change of employment application.
Second Job on Skilled Worker Visa
Can I Take a Second Job While on a Skilled Worker Visa
Yes. Key rules:
- Overtime in your sponsored job: You do not need to update your visa, and there’s no limit to overtime hours.
- Additional paid work (including for your own business): You may work up to 20 hours per week alongside your sponsored job. The extra work must be one of the following:
- in an eligible occupation code that is a higher‑skilled job; or
- on the Immigration Salary List (ISL); or
- in the same sector and at the same level as your main job.
- in an eligible occupation code that is a higher‑skilled job; or
- Medium‑skilled (RQF 3–5) additional work: Only allowed if both apply: (1) your first Tier 2/Skilled Worker CoS was issued before 22 July 2025, and (2) you have continually held Skilled Worker permission since then.
- If the extra work doesn’t meet those conditions: you must obtain separate sponsorship/permission for that role before you start it.
Please note that voluntary work is permitted, if unpaid (except reasonable expenses) and undertaken for a registered charity, voluntary organisation, an associated fundraising body, or a statutory body.
Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
Who can qualify
Most Skilled Worker visa holders can apply for settlement after 5 years of continuous lawful residence. Time on Tier 2 (General) counts towards the 5 years. You must still be needed by your employer on the date of decision and meet the requirements below.
Key requirements (at a glance)
- Continuous residence: No more than 180 days of absence in any rolling 12‑month period across the qualifying 5 years. Keep a simple absence log with dates and reasons.
- Salary at settlement: You must be paid at or above the ILR salary requirement for your occupation (the higher of the general threshold or the applicable experienced worker going rate; national pay scales apply in some health/education roles). Discounts used for entry (for example new‑entrant rates) generally do not apply at settlement.
- Genuine job & sponsorship: You must be in a genuine, eligible role with a licensed sponsor and intend to continue working for them. An employer letter confirming your job title, ongoing employment and current salary is typically required.
- Knowledge of Life & Language: Life in the UK Test and English at B1 CEFR (if not already satisfied via a qualifying UK degree or other accepted evidence), unless exempt.
- Suitability & compliance: No breaches of immigration conditions or unspent criminal convictions that would lead to refusal.
Note: For settlement, keep an eye on salary and continuous residence rules, including absence limits.
British citizenship after ILR
After you obtain ILR, you can usually apply for British citizenship after 12 months of residence. If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, the 12‑month ILR holding period does not apply. You must also meet residence, good character, and other nationality law requirements.
What are the Processing Times?
The Home Office processing times for Skilled Worker visa applications vary based on several factors. The Home Office aims to make a decision on outside-the-UK applications within 3 weeks, whereas inside-the-UK applications are usually decided in 8 weeks.
Priority and super priority services may be offered for an additional fee and can reduce the decision timeframe where available.
How Immigration Connection Can Support You for Your Skilled Worker Visa Application
As regulated immigration lawyers, we provide comprehensive, personalised support to help you secure your Skilled Worker Visa with clarity and confidence. Our experienced advisers will:
- Assess your eligibility against the Skilled Worker route requirements, including job role, salary threshold, and sponsorship criteria.
- Review and organise all your supporting documents to ensure they meet Home Office standards.
- Liaise with your sponsoring employer to ensure their Certificate of Sponsorship and compliance duties are correctly managed.
- Prepare and submit your complete application and supporting evidence file.
- Provide clear guidance on all application fees, Immigration Health Surcharge, and expected timelines.
- Draft and include a detailed legal representation letter with your application, highlighting relevant immigration rules and explaining your case clearly to assist the Home Office in making a well-informed decision.
- Keep you updated on progress and any additional steps required.
📩 Ready to take the next step? Contact Immigration Connection today and let our immigration lawyers guide you through every stage of your Scale-up Visa and other UK Visa categories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tier 2 synonymous with the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa. While they share similarities, there are some adjustments aimed at simplifying the process for both sponsors and applicants.
Are visas necessary for EU citizens to work in the UK?
From 1 January 2021 onward, with the exception of Irish citizens, all EU nationals entering the UK for work will require work authorisation unless they possess a valid status through the EU Settlement Scheme.
What happens if I lose my job?
If a Skilled Worker visa holder loses their job, the employer is required to cancel the sponsorship and notify the UKVI that the worker is no longer with the company. The UKVI will then curtail the visa, giving the applicant 60 days from the date of the curtailment letter to either find a new sponsor or regulate their stay in the UK.
UKVI will usually curtail your permission to 60 days or to your current visa expiry date, whichever is sooner. You must secure a new sponsor, switch route, or depart the UK within that time.
What are the requirements for changing jobs under the Skilled Worker Visa?
To change your job under the Skilled Worker Visa, the new role must meet the visa’s eligibility requirements, and you will need a new Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from your employer. If you are changing to a different employer, they must hold an A-rated Skilled Worker Sponsor licence. You can apply to update your visa up to three months before your new job starts, ensuring that you do not begin the new role until you receive confirmation of your updated permission. Additionally, if your current Tier 2 visa is nearing expiration, ensure you apply before it expires to avoid complications.
Check whether your move takes you out of an ISL role. If it does, you must apply to update your visa (change of employment) before starting the new job. Moves into or within RQF 3–5 roles are only allowed where transitional protections apply (i.e. you first held Skilled Worker permission before 22 July 2025 and have kept it continuously).
What types of jobs qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa?
From 22 July 2025, new Skilled Worker grants are normally at RQF Level 6 (degree level). Some RQF 3–5 roles still qualify only if the occupation appears on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), or you are covered by transitional protections (your first Skilled Worker CoS was issued before 22 July 2025 and you have kept continuous permission). There are limited exceptions for specified health and education occupation codes. The UK government maintains official tables of eligible occupation codes and their corresponding salary thresholds.
What happens if my Skilled Worker Visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you can: · Request an administrative review if you believe a mistake was made in the decision. · Reapply with updated or corrected information. Appeal in certain situations, especially if the refusal violates your human rights. It’s important to carefully review the reasons for the refusal and consider the option of submitting a fresh application. Consult with an immigration adviser to make an informed decision.
Can I study while on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, you are allowed to study in the UK while on a Skilled Worker Visa. However, the course should not interfere with your main work responsibilities.
Can I travel outside the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, you can travel outside the UK and return as long as your visa remains valid. However, extended absences could impact your eligibility for indefinite leave to remain, as you need to prove continuous residence in the UK to qualify.
What if my employment ends before my visa expires?
If your job ends early, your visa will usually be curtailed, giving you a limited period (typically 60 days) to either find a new employer to sponsor you or leave the UK. If you find a new job, you must update your visa with the new sponsor’s details.
Can I extend my Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, you can extend your Skilled Worker Visa as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements, including having a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved employer. You can extend it as many times as necessary, provided you continue to meet the criteria.
Note: For settlement, keep an eye on salary and continuous residence rules, including absence limits.
I previously had a Tier 2 visa but was given a Skilled Worker Visa upon renewal. Does this change anything?
No, it does not change anything. For the purpose of settlement and its requirements, the time spent under Tier 2 and Skilled Worker visas can be calculated together.
