United Kingdom/Skilled Worker Visa

UK Skilled Worker Visa Requirements

Complete guide to UK Skilled Worker Visa requirements for employment in the United Kingdom.

Processing: 3-8 weeks

Fee: £719

Last verified: January 2026

Updated: 15 January 2026

Verified: January 2026

Reviewed by VisaCalm Editorial Team

|Editorial Policy

Overview

The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to work in the UK for an approved employer. You must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meet minimum salary requirements.

This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa and operates under the UK's points-based immigration system.

Eligibility Requirements

Job offer from licensed UK sponsor
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Meet minimum salary threshold (£38,700 or going rate)
Eligible occupation on the occupation list
Meet English language requirements
Sufficient funds to support yourself

Required Documents

Certificate of Sponsorship

Required

Reference number from employer

Valid Passport

Required

Requirements ensuring your passport or travel document is valid for the duration of your intended travel.

English Language Evidence

Required

Test certificate or degree taught in English

Criminal Record Certificate

Optional

If working with vulnerable people

Financial Evidence

Required

Proof of £1,270 held for 28 days

TB Test Certificate

Optional

Required if from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, South Africa, Philippines, or other high-incidence countries

Application Steps

Get Job Offer

Secure job with licensed sponsor

Receive CoS

Employer issues Certificate of Sponsorship

Apply Online

Access the official government portal to complete and submit your electronic visa application form.

Biometrics

Attend your scheduled visa appointment to submit your documents and enroll your biometrics.

Decision

Information on how you will be notified regarding the outcome of your visa application.

Visa Fees

Type	Amount	Note
Up to 3 years	£719	-
More than 3 years	£1,420	-
Immigration Health Surcharge	£1,035	Per year

View full United Kingdom fee breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum salary for UK Skilled Worker visa?

Generally £38,700 per year or the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher. Some exceptions apply for shortage occupations and new entrants.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A CoS is a digital reference number issued by your UK employer that confirms they are sponsoring your visa application. Your employer must be a licensed sponsor with the Home Office. You cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa without a valid CoS.

Can I bring my family on a UK Skilled Worker visa?

Yes, you can bring your spouse/partner and children under 18 as dependents. Each dependent must apply separately and pay their own visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. They will typically get permission to work in the UK without restrictions.

How long can I stay on a UK Skilled Worker visa?

The visa can be granted for up to 5 years at a time. You can extend it as long as you continue to meet the requirements. After 5 years of continuous residence, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement).

What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives you access to the UK National Health Service. It costs £1,035 per year for most applicants and is paid upfront for the duration of your visa. The fee is in addition to the visa application fee.

Can I change jobs on a UK Skilled Worker visa?

Yes, but you need to apply for a new visa with sponsorship from your new employer before starting work with them. You cannot simply switch employers without updating your visa. Your new employer must also be a licensed sponsor.

Generate Your Documents

Create all required documents for your Skilled Worker Visa application

Document Studio Visa Cover Letter Generator

View all tools

Processing Time

3-8 weeks

Standard processing

Important

Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate website before applying.

Official Sources

This information is based on the following official sources. Always verify with these sources before submitting applications.

Apply for Skilled Worker Visa

Official skilled worker visa application

gov.ukOfficial

Eligible Occupations

Use the official occupation shortage list or eligibility tool to verify if your intended employment qualifies for a visa.

gov.ukOfficial

Licensed Sponsors

Verify your employer is licensed

gov.ukOfficial

Salary Requirements

Official guidance on the minimum going rate and salary requirements for skilled worker visa categories.

gov.ukOfficial

TB Test Countries

Guidance on determining if you are required to take a tuberculosis (TB) test based on your country of residence.

gov.ukOfficial

Links open in a new tab. VisaCalm is not responsible for external website content.

More United Kingdom Visas

View all United Kingdom visas