The Skilled worker visa is one of the most important immigration routes for professionals who wish to work and build a long-term future in the United Kingdom. This visa allows UK employers to recruit overseas talent for eligible roles where local skills are limited. It also offers visa holders the opportunity to live, work, and eventually settle in the UK. At Visa and Migration, we support both employers and applicants by providing structured guidance to ensure applications meet Home Office requirements. This article explains eligibility criteria, sponsorship rules, application steps, and how professional support can improve success rates.
Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled worker visa replaced the former Tier 2 (General) route and is designed to attract qualified professionals to the UK labour market. It allows overseas nationals to work in an approved role for a licensed sponsor and can lead to indefinite leave to remain after a qualifying period.
Who the Visa Is For
This route is suitable for individuals who have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship licence. The role must meet skill and salary requirements set by immigration rules. At Visa and Migration, we assess whether a role and applicant meet the necessary criteria before proceeding.
Sponsorship and Employer Requirements
A key element of the Skilled worker visa is employer sponsorship.
UK Sponsorship Licence
The UK employer must hold an active sponsorship licence to hire overseas workers. They are responsible for issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship that confirms job details, salary, and start date. Visa and Migration assists employers with sponsorship licence applications and ongoing compliance obligations to ensure lawful recruitment.
Genuine Vacancy Requirement
The job offered must be genuine and meet the required skill level. The Home Office may assess whether the role aligns with business needs and market standards. We guide employers and applicants on presenting accurate job descriptions and supporting evidence.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Applicants must meet several conditions to qualify for a Skilled worker visa.
Job Offer and Skill Level
The applicant must have a confirmed job offer for an eligible occupation. The role must meet the minimum skill threshold defined by UK immigration rules. At Visa and Migration, we review job codes carefully to ensure they are suitable.
Salary Requirement
Applicants must be paid at or above the minimum salary level for the role. In some cases, lower salary thresholds may apply, such as for shortage occupations or new entrants. We advise clients on salary rules and acceptable exceptions.
English Language Requirement
Most applicants must demonstrate English language ability through an approved test or recognised qualification. Some nationalities are exempt. Visa and Migration confirms whether applicants meet this requirement and advises on accepted evidence.
Application Process Explained
Applying for a Skilled worker visa involves several structured steps that must be completed accurately.
Preparing the Application
The process begins with confirming sponsorship details and gathering supporting documents, including identity records, qualifications, and employment details. Our team prepares clear document checklists and reviews all evidence before submission.
Online Application and Biometrics
Applicants must complete an online application form, pay the relevant fees, and attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs. Visa and Migration guides clients through each stage to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on where the application is made. Priority services may be available in some cases. We keep clients informed about expected timelines and assist with any follow-up requests.
Rights and Conditions of the Skilled Worker Visa
Once granted, the Skilled worker visa provides several important rights and responsibilities.
Work and Residence Rights
Visa holders can work for their sponsoring employer in the approved role. They may also undertake supplementary work under certain conditions. Family members can apply as dependants, allowing them to live and work in the UK.
Changing Employers or Roles
If a visa holder wishes to change jobs or employers, a new application may be required. At Visa and Migration, we advise on role changes, promotions, and employer switches to ensure continued compliance.
Pathway to Settlement
One of the key benefits of the Skilled worker visa is its route to permanent settlement.
Indefinite Leave to Remain
After completing the required period of lawful residence, usually five years, visa holders may apply for indefinite leave to remain. This requires meeting salary, residence, and language requirements. We assist clients with long-term planning and settlement applications.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Refusals often occur due to incorrect job codes, salary shortfalls, incomplete documentation, or sponsor compliance issues. At Visa and Migration, we reduce these risks through detailed pre-application checks and careful preparation.
How We Support Applicants and Employers
At Visa and Migration, we provide end-to-end support for Skilled worker visa applications. Our services include employer sponsorship guidance, applicant eligibility assessments, document preparation, application review, and advice on extensions and settlement routes. We focus on accuracy, compliance, and clear communication throughout the process.
Ongoing Compliance and Extensions
Visa holders must continue to meet visa conditions, including working in the approved role and maintaining valid immigration status.
Extensions and Renewals
Before the visa expires, an extension must be submitted if the individual wishes to continue working in the UK. Visa and Migration supports clients with extension applications and compliance reviews to avoid gaps in status.
Conclusion
The Skilled worker visa offers a valuable opportunity for overseas professionals to work, live, and settle in the United Kingdom while supporting UK businesses with essential skills. Success depends on correct sponsorship, meeting eligibility requirements, and submitting accurate documentation. At Visa and Migration, we guide both employers and applicants through every stage of the process, helping them approach the skilled worker route with confidence and achieve long-term immigration goals in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Â
1. Who is eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa?
To qualify, an applicant must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship licence. The role must meet the required skill and salary levels, and the applicant must satisfy the English language requirement, unless exempt.
2. Is a job offer mandatory for a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, a valid job offer is essential. The employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship confirming the role, salary, and employment details before the visa application can be submitted.
3. Can family members join a Skilled Worker Visa holder in the UK?
Yes, eligible dependants such as a spouse or partner and children can apply to join the main applicant. Dependants are generally allowed to live, work, and study in the UK.
4. How long does a Skilled Worker Visa last?
The visa is usually granted for up to five years, depending on the length stated on the Certificate of Sponsorship. It can be extended if the applicant continues to meet the requirements.
5. Can a Skilled Worker Visa lead to settlement in the UK?
Yes, after completing the required qualifying period, usually five years, visa holders may apply for indefinite leave to remain, subject to meeting residence, salary, and language requirements.
6. What happens if a Skilled Worker Visa holder changes jobs?
In most cases, changing employers or roles requires a new visa application. It is important to apply before starting the new role to ensure continued lawful status in the UK.
