Skilled Worker visa

Who this pathway suits

The Skilled Worker visa is the cornerstone of the UK's points-based immigration system. To qualify, you must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office licensed sponsor.Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations at RQF Level 3 or higher, and the role must meet the relevant general salary threshold (or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher).Visa holders enjoy the stability of multi-year leave (up to 5 years at a time), can bring eligible dependants, access the National Health Service (NHS), and qualify for permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 continuous years.

Eligibility at a glance

• A confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office to sponsor skilled workers
• A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number issued by your sponsor
• The job is on the list of eligible skilled occupations at RQF Level 3 or above
• Paid at or above the relevant general salary threshold or the occupation's going rate
• English language proficiency at minimum CEFR Level B1 (IELTS for UKVI, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI, or degree evaluated by Ecctis)
• Sufficient personal savings (minimum £1,270 held for 28 days, unless sponsor certifies maintenance on CoS)
• Criminal record certificate (for roles in education, healthcare, and social care)

How the process works

1. Job Offer & Sponsor Licence — Secure a qualified job offer from an approved Home Office sponsor.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) — Employer assigns a Defined or Undefined Certificate of Sponsorship.
3. English & Medical Testing — Pass approved SELT English exam and complete TB screening if required.
4. Online Visa Application — Submit application on GOV.UK and pay visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
5. Biometrics Appointment — Attend VFS Global / TLScontact appointment or use the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
6. Decision & Relocation — Receive vignette / eVisa share code and begin employment in the UK.

Documents you will typically need

• Valid passport identity page and current visa status
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
• English language test certificate (SELT) or Ecctis verification letter
• Proof of personal savings (bank statements) unless sponsor certified maintenance
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if applying from a designated country)
• Criminal record certificate (for regulated professions)

Frequently asked questions