Skilled Worker Visa: Application & Eligibility Guide 2025
The Skilled Worker visa enables qualifying foreign nationals to work in the UK for an approved sponsor in an eligible role.
Whether you are an employer looking to hire someone from overseas or are an individual applying for a sponsored work visa, it will be important to understand the Skilled Worker visa eligibility and application requirements to avoid issues or delays with the Home Office application. A refused application will result in the loss of the application fee and the individual not being allowed to come to the UK for work.
In this comprehensive guide, we set out the rules and requirements to apply for a Skilled Worker visa, including the eligibility criteria that have to be met, and the supporting documents that will need to be submitted to evidence eligibility. We also look at application costs and timings, and the conditions that Skilled Worker visa holders have to comply with once they come to the UK for work.
Section A: What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa, is the main work visa for overseas nationals. It allows employers to sponsor non-UK nationals to work in the UK in eligible, skilled roles. The visa is open to individuals who attain 70 points by meeting specific eligibility requirements such as skill and salary level, English language ability, and a qualifying job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence.
The Skilled Worker visa makes provisions for spouses, ‘durable’ partners, and dependent children to apply to join the main visa applicant list in the UK as Skilled Worker dependents.
The Skilled Worker visa is granted for up to five years, after which the worker can become eligible to apply for UK Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Section B: Skilled Worker Visa Changes under the Immigration White Paper
Published in May 2025, the UK government’s 2025 Immigration White Paper outlines several changes to the Skilled Worker visa. Details and timings of the new rules are yet to be confirmed.
One of the most significant changes is the removal of the Immigration Salary List (ISL), which previously allowed for reduced salary thresholds for jobs recognised as being in shortage. In its place, the government plans to introduce a new Temporary Shortage List (TSL), which will only apply to a limited number of sub-degree level roles under time-limited and conditional arrangements.
The skill threshold for eligibility has also been raised. Applicants will need to hold qualifications equivalent to RQF Level 6 or above, narrowing the range of roles eligible for sponsorship. This change is likely to affect sectors that have historically relied on skilled workers in technical or supervisory roles below graduate level.
Minimum salary thresholds are also set to increase, although the precise figures are subject to further consultation. In addition, the English language requirement is to be raised from CEFR Level B1 to B2 for both main applicants and adult dependants.
Another major reform is the extension of the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Skilled Worker visa holders will now need to complete ten years of continuous residence in the UK before becoming eligible for settlement, doubling the previous requirement of five years. This period may potentially be reduced under a fast-tracked route in certain circumstances, based on factors such as contribution.
Proposed Changes to Skilled Worker Visa – 2025 White Paper:
Section C: Skilled Worker Visa Requirements
The rules and requirements for the Skilled Worker visa route are set out in Appendix Skilled Worker. Applicants will need to accrue a total of 70 points to be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa.
The applicable 70 points threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is made up of 50 points for mandatory or ‘non-tradeable’ criteria (i.e., the job offer, speaking English, and the requisite skill level for the job on offer) and 20 points for what are classed as ‘tradeable’ criteria.
1. Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary
In relation to salary, the applicant must be awarded 20 points from one of the options in the table below, as stated in Appendix Skilled Worker.
The Skilled Worker visa minimum annual salary threshold for most applicants is £38,700, where no salary discount is available; this is referred to as Option A. In addition to meeting or exceeding the relevant annual salary level, the worker’s pay must also meet or exceed the relevant going rate for the occupation.
a. Salary Threshold for New Skilled Worker Visa Applicants
The standard salary threshold for most applicants is £38,700. A lower, discounted threshold of £30,960 applies for roles listed on the Immigration Salary List or if the applicant is a new entrant to the labour market. Eligible applicants relying on a relevant PhD will now have to earn £34,830, and for those relying on a relevant STEM PhD, the new minimum threshold is £30,960.
b. Salary Threshold for Existing Skilled Worker Visa Applicants pre-4 April 2024
The salary threshold of £29,000 applies from 4 April 2024 for existing Skilled Worker visa holders who are making new applications, such as extensions or changing their employer.
c. Salary Threshold for Health and Care Workers
The salary for a Health and Care Worker visa depends on the occupation code for the job. For most Health and Care Worker visa applicants, the general salary requirement is £29,000 per year, or the lower going rate for the job, whichever is higher. Each eligible occupation has its own going rate. For example, if the lower going rate for the role is £33,000 and the salary offer is £30,000, this applicant would not meet the salary requirement.
Certain applicants may qualify for a Health and Care Worker visa with a reduced salary of 70% to 90% of the going rate, provided they earn at least £25,000 per year. This applies to individuals under 26, recent graduates, those in professional training or those working towards registration or chartered status. In these cases, the total stay in the UK is limited to four years, including any time spent on a Tier 2 (General) visa.
Applicants with a relevant UK or recognised PhD may also benefit from salary discounts. Those with a STEM PhD can be paid 80% of the going rate (minimum £25,000), while non-STEM PhD holders can be paid 90% (minimum £26,100), subject to employer confirmation and Ecctis validation if the qualification is from overseas.
Postdoctoral scientists in occupation codes 2113 and 2114 may qualify at 70% of the going rate if paid at least £25,000, with a four-year stay limit.
For roles on the Immigration Salary List, the minimum salary is £23,200 or the full going rate, whichever is higher. No additional salary reductions apply to these jobs.
d. Skilled Worker Going Rates
Going rates for eligible roles are set out in two tables. Table 1 covers the going rates applicable to new Skilled Worker applicants, while Table 2 specifies the lower going rates for existing Skilled Worker visa holders when making a new application.
In addition, the new going rates also incorporate the minimum hourly rate requirement.
2. Sponsored Role Requirement
20 mandatory points must be attained about employment sponsorship. Requirements are placed on both the worker and their employer (i.e. the sponsor). The sponsor must hold a valid sponsorship licence with an A rating. The sponsor must also have paid the Immigration Skills Charge. The Home Office will also look to determine if the vacancy and employment are genuine, ie that the sponsoring organisation has a genuine need for the job.
The worker must have been assigned a valid Certificate of Sponsorship by the employer specific to the role they are being recruited for.
3. Certificate of Sponsorship Requirement
Before the worker can submit their visa application, their UK sponsor must first issue them a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to confirm that the individual and role meet the sponsorship eligibility requirements.
The CoS is a reference number that the Skilled Worker visa applicant will need to provide with their Home Office application. Only licenced sponsors can issue a CoS.
There are now two types of Certificate of Sponsorship: the defined Certificate of Sponsorship and the undefined Certificate of Sponsorship. These replace the old restricted and unrestricted CoS, which were applicable prior to 1 December 2020.
Undefined CoS are for either workers already in the UK with valid leave who are applying to switch into the skilled worker category from another immigration route, or those applying under one of the other visa routes from within the UK or overseas.
Defined CoS are for out-of-country skilled worker visa applications.
Sponsors will need to pay and apply for a defined CoS. This is a specific application to the Home Office, and details of the specific job and salary will need to be provided. It costs £525 to assign a CoS under a Worker sponsor licence.
UKVI allocate undefined CoS to sponsors on an annual basis. The number of CoS will depend on factors such as the size of the sponsor’s workforce and the nature of the business. Any unused CoS will be removed from the SMS at the end of each 12 months. It is also possible to apply for additional undefined CoS during the year.
4. Skill Requirement
Skilled worker visa holders can only work in certain eligible roles. To be eligible, the role must be deemed to be at RQF level 3 or above. This is the equivalent of a UK A-level. Any roles considered to be lower than this will not qualify under the skilled worker visa requirements.
When assessing roles for skilled worker visa eligibility, the Home Office uses ‘Standard Occupation Codes’ (SOC).
To determine if the job is eligible for the Skilled Worker route, the sponsor should identify the relevant SOC code for the role. This can be done using the ONS occupation coding tool. The job description on the list should match the position being filled.
Once the code has been identified, this will need to be cross-referenced with the list of eligible jobs to check that it is included and is eligible under the Skilled Worker route.
Employers must not use an unsuitable job code or exaggerate the requirements of a role to fit into a SOC code, for example, to make the role seem more highly skilled and, therefore, eligible.
The Home Office may request further information about the role to address any concerns that an incorrect SOC code has been used. This would involve submitting additional evidence that the applicant has the required skills and experience for a role in the relevant SOC code.
If there has been a genuine error in selecting the wrong code, this can usually be corrected.
The Home Office can refuse a Skilled Worker visa application if the caseworker determines the job being recruited for, or the applicant’s skills and experience, do not match the relevant SOC code and skill level requirement.
5. English Language Requirement
The required level of English is a minimum level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages scale for reading, writing, speaking and understanding English.
Most Skilled Worker visa applicants will need to prove they meet the English language requirement, unless they have already done so as part of a previous UK immigration application or if they are a national of one of a number of exempt countries.
Unless exempt, language ability must be evidenced by either having a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English; having a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English; or passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Applicants are exempt from the English language requirement if they are from any of the following countries:
6. Financial Maintenance Requirement
The applicant must show they meet the financial requirement, and have sufficient funds to support themselves as they will not have access to public funds such as benefits.
The rules state applicants must have at least £1,270 in their bank account when applying. This amount must have been available for at least 28 consecutive days, with day 28 being within 31 days of making the visa application. The applicant will need to provide evidence of their savings, unless they have been in the UK for 12 months with lawful status, or if their sponsor agrees to meet their costs of up to £1,270 during their first month in the UK.
The sponsor should confirm on the Certificate of Sponsorship that they will meet the financial requirement under the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section on your certificate. This is under ‘Additional data’.
Additional funds will be needed if dependants are applying. The partner of the principal applicant will need to show funds of £285, and a further £315 will need to be shown for the first dependent child applicant. For any additional child, the financial requirement must be met by showing funds of £200 per additional child. For example, a Skilled Worker visa with a spouse and three children would need to show maintenance funds of at least £2,270 (=£1,270 + £285 + £315 + £200 + £200).
7. Background Check Requirement
Some applicants may also need to show a criminal records certificate if their occupation requires this.
8. Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals looking to work in roles in the UK health or adult social care sector should instead look at the Health and Care Worker visa. This route is specifically designed for health sector occupations such as qualified nurses, doctors, adult social care professionals and many other healthcare professionals.
It offers a number of benefits to visa holders over the Skilled Worker visa, such as a lower application fee and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Specific eligibility criteria apply for the Health & care worker visa, with only certain roles eligible under this route, as specified on the Home Office Immigration Salary List. The List is, however, subject to change, and sponsors and workers are advised to double-check that a role continues to be eligible when making an application.
Section D: How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa
To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, the applicant will need to submit an online application, together with their supporting documentation, and pay the relevant fee. Applications can be made up to 3 months before the day the worker’s intended employment start date in the UK, as stated on the Certificate of Sponsorship.
The applicant will need to submit an online application within three months of being assigned their Certificate of Sponsorship. Each certificate has a unique reference number that they will need to apply.
They will also be required to attend an appointment at a visa application centre to enrol their biometric information and submit various supporting documents.
1. Skilled Worker Visa Supporting Documents
Along with the application form, the applicant will also have to compile and submit documents to evidence their identity and eligibility.
Depending on where the application is being made – in the UK or overseas – the applicant will either have to use the UK Government’s ‘UK Immigration: ID Check to submit the ID document, or submit biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a UKVCAS centre.
Applicants from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, and those from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein who do not have a chipped biometric passport, must also have a blank page on their passport.
The Home Office will assess their application on the basis of how many points they have accumulated under the points-based system.
It is important to note that the offer of a genuine job with a valid certificate of sponsorship does not guarantee the successful grant of a Skilled Worker visa. The prospective employee must still meet all the other relevant criteria.
The Home Office will also consider any general grounds for refusal, including any relevant criminal history or previous immigration violations.
2. Skilled Worker Visa Timeline
This table outlines the key stages and expected timeframes involved in the Skilled Worker Visa application process, to support effective planning:
3. Application Tips
Improve your chances of a successful Skilled Worker Visa application by following these tips:
Section E: Skilled Worker Visa Fees & Processing Times
1. Visa Costs
The applicant will have to pay the visa application fee, with the amount payable depending on factors such as whether the job is on the Immigration Salary List.
The same costs apply to any dependents applying with the main visa applicant.
Get in touch with KD Immigration Experts for general queries, feedback, and requests for information
Section F: Duration & Conditions
Skilled worker visa holders must comply with certain conditions, including ensuring their status does not expire, and taking specific steps if they change employers, lose their job, or wish to undertake additional work.
1. How long does a Skilled Worker visa last?
The skilled worker visa is usually granted for up to 5 years. At this point, the visa holder would need to apply to extend their visa. Alternatively, upon completing the 5-year residency requirement, they may become eligible to apply for UK indefinite leave to remain.
There is no limit on the number of times the Skilled Worker visa can be extended, provided the worker continues to meet the visa requirements.
Changing Jobs or Employer as a Skilled Worker
If the visa holder changes sponsor or jobs, they will need to apply for a new period of leave by making an application for a new Skilled Worker visa on the basis of their new Certificate of Sponsorship.
3. Taking on Additional Work with a Skilled Worker Visa
There are specific rules governing whether someone with a Skilled Worker visa can take on a second job or earn supplementary income in addition to their sponsored role.
Skilled worker visa holders are permitted to take on additional work (including voluntary work) provided they are still employed by their original sponsor and continue to undertake their main sponsored role, and that certain conditions are met. If the Skilled Worker is a GP trainee and has been granted permission up to 4 months after the end date listed on their CoS, they are allowed to undertake supplementary work during this period, even if they are no longer employed by their original sponsor. In all other situations, however, the worker must continue working for their sponsor to be eligible for supplementary work.
The additional role can only be for up to 20 hours a week, and only for working hours outside those covered by the CoS. The additional job can also only be in an occupation listed in Tables 1, 2 or 3 of Appendix Skilled Occupations.
If these conditions are met, the worker does not need to inform the Home Office of this additional employment. However, where these conditions are not met, the worker must notify the Home Office to request for their visa be updated to include sponsorship for both of the jobs. To do this, the worker will need a Certificate of Sponsorship from their second employer and an accompanying letter requesting to vary the terms of the current visa.
4. Losing Your Sponsored Job
If you’ve lost your job as a Skilled Worker visa, you have a 60-day grace period during which you can remain in the UK and seek new employment. If during this time you find a new job with a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship licence, you should obtain a new CoS and apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa application using the new CoS.
If finding a new sponsor proves difficult, you may consider switching to another visa type, such as a Family Visa, if eligible. It is important to comply with all visa conditions during this period and seek professional advice if needed.
Failure to secure new employment or switch visas within the grace period means you must leave the UK to avoid overstaying.
Section G: Skilled Worker Visa Requirements for Employers
If you are planning to hire a non-UK resident under the UK’s points-based system, you may need to apply to the Home Office for a sponsorship licence. This is the permission needed for UK employers to sponsor overseas nationals for a visa to work in the UK in a specific role in an eligible skilled occupation.
Employers do not need to have a licence to hire someone with an existing right to work in the UK that allows them to do the job in question, such as those with valid settled status under the EU settlement scheme, those holding indefinite leave to remain or anyone with British citizenship.
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, the organisation must provide evidence that it is a genuine organisation operating lawfully in the UK and that it is suitable to sponsor skilled migrant workers. In assessing suitability, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will consider if:
a. The organisation can offer genuine employment in the UK that meets the required skills threshold of RQF3 or above, and pays the relevant minimum salary threshold.
b. The organisation is capable of meeting the sponsorship duties, where they have in place adequate HR systems and practices, and suitable key personnel to do so. The key personnel are the people who will operate the sponsor management system (SMS) and be responsible for discharging the duties of a licensed sponsor.
c. The organisation, its key personnel and management are honest, dependable and reliable, where any history of immigration violations or relevant unspent criminal convictions relating to those involved in the day-to-day running of the business or the key personnel named on the sponsor licence application, could affect its ability to sponsor overseas workers.
Section H: Switching to the Skilled Worker visa
It is possible in many circumstances to apply to apply from within the UK’ switch into’ the Skilled Worker route, provided certain conditions are met. The rules will largely depend on the type of visa the individual is looking to switch from.
Student visa holders, for example, must generally have completed their studies before they can switch to a Skilled Worker visa unless the job starts after the course has been completed or they have been studying on a PhD course for at least 24 months.
Switchers must still meet all of the Skilled Worker eligibility requirements.
It is not possible to switch into the Skilled Worker category if an individual is currently in the UK with status under any of the following:
a. visit visa
b. short-term student visa
c. parent of a Child Student visa
d. seasonal worker visa
e. domestic worker in a private household visa
f. permission to stay outside the immigration rules
g. immigration bail
Section I: Skilled Worker Dependants
If you hold a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be able to bring your family members to the UK. Family members, or dependents, include your spouse or partner and your children. The UK government has set out specific requirements and processes to ensure that dependents can join you while you work and live in the UK.
Your dependents can include your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner. Unmarried partners must have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years prior to the application. Your children can apply as dependents if they are under 18 years old at the time of application. Children over 18 may be eligible if they are currently in the UK as your dependent and are not married, in a civil partnership, or living an independent life.
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support your dependents while they are in the UK. This is in addition to the maintenance funds required for your own visa application. For a spouse or partner, you need to show that you have an additional £285. For your first child, an additional £315 is required. For each subsequent child, you need to show an additional £200 per child.
Section J: Skilled Worker Visa to ILR
Securing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a significant step towards obtaining permanent residency in the UK. It grants you the right to live, work, and study in the UK without any time restrictions and is a key milestone on the path to British citizenship.
To apply for ILR, Skilled Worker Visa holders must meet several requirements. You must have lived in the UK continuously for at least five years. During this period, you cannot have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months. You must hold a valid Skilled Worker Visa at the time of your ILR application.
You must have ongoing employment with a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship licence. Your job must still meet the skill level and salary requirements, typically earning at least £25,600 per year or the ‘going rate’ for your occupation, whichever is higher. You need to demonstrate proficiency in English by passing an approved English language test at B1 level or higher, unless you are exempt (for example, if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country or hold a degree taught in English).
You must pass the ‘Life in the UK Test,’ which assesses your knowledge of British customs, traditions, and history. Additionally, you must provide evidence of financial stability, although this requirement is generally less stringent than during the initial visa application.
Section K: Need Assistance?
For skilled workers and their sponsors, with so much at stake, it is important to seek legal advice to understand the immigration options available and that the Skilled Worker visa is the most appropriate route. The UK immigration system has been subject to significant reforms in recent years, with many varied work visa options now available to different types of workers in different roles and industries. This makes it critical to ensure the Skilled Worker is the best route in the circumstances.
As specialist UK immigration lawyers, we bring substantial experience and recognised expertise in advising employers and workers on UK employment sponsorship and Skilled Worker visa applications. For expert guidance with any aspect of the Skilled Worker visa, from how to sponsor a skilled worker and apply for a sponsor licence, to how to apply to the Home Office for a Skilled Worker visa once you have secured qualifying UK employment, contact us.
Section L: Skilled Worker Visa FAQs
What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals with a job offer from an approved UK employer to live and work in the UK. The visa is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
Who is eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa?
To be eligible, you must have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship license. You must also meet the minimum skill level, salary, and English language requirements.
How do I apply for the Skilled Worker Visa?
You can apply online by filling out the application form, providing the required documents, and paying the necessary fees. You will also need to attend a biometric appointment.
What documents are required for the application?
Key documents include your passport, certificate of sponsorship from your employer, proof of English proficiency, proof of financial means, and any relevant qualifications.
How long does it take to process the visa?
The processing time typically ranges from three to eight weeks, depending on your location and the complexity of your application.
How much does the Skilled Worker Visa cost?
The cost varies depending on your situation. For example, a visa where the CoS has been assigned for 3 years or less and is applied for from outside the UK costs £769. As well as the visa application fee, there is also the healthcare surcharge and possibly additional costs for dependents and expedited processing.
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A CoS is an electronic document issued by your UK employer that confirms your job offer and is required for your visa application. It includes details about the job and salary.
What are the English language requirements?
You must demonstrate proficiency in English by passing an approved English language test at the required level or by holding a degree taught in English.
Can I bring my family members with me?
You can bring your spouse/partner and children under 18 as dependents, provided they apply for dependent visas and meet the financial requirements.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from another visa?
You may be able to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from certain visa categories if you meet the eligibility criteria.
How long can I stay in the UK with this visa?
The visa is typically granted for up to five years. You can apply to extend it or switch to another visa before it expires.
Can I apply for permanent residency?
After five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you meet the residency and other requirements.
What happens if I lose my job?
If you lose your job, you must find another employer who can sponsor you or switch to another visa category. You have a grace period of 60 days to do so.
What are the common reasons for visa refusal?
Common reasons include not meeting the eligibility criteria, insufficient documentation, failing the English language requirement, and not having a valid Certificate of Sponsorship.
Who is classed as a skilled worker?
A skilled worker is someone who will be working in a job role in the UK that is deemed to have a skill level of RQF3 or above, (equivalent to A level), as set out under Appendix Skilled Occupations to the Immigration Rules.
Is Tier 2 the same as the skilled worker visa?
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa, which is broadly similar to the old visa, although there are some changes aimed at making the process more straightforward for both sponsors and applicants.
Do EU nationals need a visa to work in the UK?
Except for Irish citizens, all EU nationals coming to work in the UK after 1 January 2021 need permission to work, which could be either valid status under the EU Settlement Scheme or a valid visa.
Section M: Glossary
Section N: Additional Resources
UK Government Official Skilled Worker Visa Page
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigratio
Points-Based Immigration System: Further Details Statement
Visa Processing Times
https://www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times
Approved English Language Tests and Providers
Financial Requirements for UK Visas
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/financial-evidence
Register of Licensed Sponsors: Workers
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/register-of-licensed-sponsors-workers
Guidance for Sponsors
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sponsor-a-skilled-worke
Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/apply
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Information
