If you’re planning to work in the UK, you must apply for a UK skilled worker visa. This visa lets you live and work in the UK worry-free and allows individuals to work in the UK in an eligible job with an approved employer. To qualify, applicants need a confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor, meet specific skill and salary thresholds, and demonstrate English language proficiency. The visa is typically valid for up to 5 years and can be extended. Applicants can bring dependents and may apply for permanent residency after 5 years. Key costs include the application fee and healthcare surcharge.
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, you must meet specific criteria and accumulate a minimum of 70 points through the UK’s points-based system. Below are the detailed requirements:
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Points-Based System Â
The UK operates a points-based system to assess UK skilled worker visa eligibility. Applicants must score at least 70 points, which are accrued based on core and additional criteria.
1. Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor (20 points):
You need to have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who has an active sponsor license.
2. Job at an Appropriate Skill Level (20 points):
Your job must be on the government’s list of eligible occupations, typically requiring qualifications at least equivalent to RQF level 3 (A-level).
3. Salary Threshold (20 points):
You must earn a minimum salary as specified by the government. This generally means earning at least approximately £26,200 per year, £10.75 per hour, or the ‘going rate’ for the job, whichever is higher.
4. English Language Proficiency (10 points):
You must demonstrate proficiency in English at a B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be proven by passing an approved English language test or having an academic qualification taught in English.
5. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
Your employer must provide a valid CoS, which includes details about the job role, salary, and confirmation that the role is at the required skill level.
You can earn additional points to meet the 70-point threshold based on the following:
1. Higher Qualifications:
2. Job in a Shortage Occupation (20 points):
3. New Entrants to the Labour Market (20 points):
4. High Salary:
You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself upon arrival in the UK, unless your employer covers these costs. Typically, you need to have at least £1,270 available in your bank account for 28 days before applying.
However, there are exceptions and variations:
1. Secure a Job Offer Â
2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)Â Â
3. Gather Required Documents Â
Documents Needed:
4. Complete the Application Form Â
5. Biometric Enrollment Â
6. Decision-Making Â
7. Collect Your Visa Â
Important Notes Â
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When applying for a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK, be aware of several costs:
1. Visa Application Fee: Ranges from £719 to £1,639, depending on your country of residence, length of stay, and salary level.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year for adults. For a 3-year visa, you’ll pay £3,105 for access to the NHS.
Approximate Additional Costs:
Planning for these costs ensures a smoother application process and effective financial management upon arrival in the UK.
1. Dependents Â
2. Switching Visas Â
3. Path to Permanent Residency Â
Irish Expert streamlines the process for the Skilled worker visa in the UK with comprehensive services. Their expert immigration lawyers offer personalized guidance, ensuring your application meets all legal requirements and addresses potential issues. With a 99% visa success rate, Irish Expert is highly effective in securing approvals. Their in-house visa team manages every detail, from document collection to form submission, ensuring accuracy and compliance. This combination of expert legal support, high success rates, and meticulous processing significantly enhances your chances of a smooth and successful visa application.
The UK Skilled Worker Visa lets you live and work in the UK with a job offer from an approved employer. To qualify, you need to meet skill and salary thresholds, prove English proficiency, and earn 70 points through a points-based system. The visa is valid for a maximum of 5 years and can be renewed. Key costs include the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), plus possible additional costs for biometrics, English tests, and document translation. Dependents can join you, and you may apply for permanent residency after 5 years. Irish Expert ensures efficient and accurate handling of your application with expert immigration lawyers and a high success rate.
Secure a job offer, get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), gather documents, complete the application, pay fees, schedule a biometric appointment, and wait for the decision. Collect your biometric residence permit if approved. This ensures eligibility for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Negotiate a higher salary or find a job that meets the £26,200/year or ‘going rate’ requirement. The job must also meet skill level and other criteria for the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK.
Application fee (£719 to £1,639), Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year), and additional costs (biometric fees, English test fees, translations, travel). Budgeting these is crucial for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Ensure your current visa allows switching, meet all Skilled Worker visa requirements, including a qualifying job offer and salary. Switching is possible within the UK for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Irish Expert provides expert guidance, document handling, and application submission. Their 99% visa success rate and in-house team streamline the process, enhancing your chances of obtaining the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK.
