Skilled Worker Visa UK
Streamline Your Skilled Worker Visa Process with Our Support!
What is UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is a vital work visa for international nationals seeking employment in the UK, having replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020.
This visa allows UK employers to sponsor non-UK citizens for eligible skilled roles, enabling them to fill vital positions within their organisations.
To qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must achieve a total of 70 points based on specific eligibility criteria. These include having a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence, securing a role that meets the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above, which is equivalent to A-level), and meeting the minimum salary threshold.
At Westend Consultants, our qualified immigration lawyers help you with the Skilled Worker visa application process, ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements and simplifying the procedure for you.
Skilled Worker Visa UK: Requirements for Workers and Sponsors
Workers Requirements for UK Skilled Worker Visa
To qualify for a skilled worker visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Job Offer
You need a job from a UK employer who is on the Home Office’s list of licenced sponsors.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must provide you with a valid Certificate of Sponsorship.
Eligible Occupation
The job must be on the list of eligible occupations and meet the required skill level (at least RQF Level 3, roughly equivalent to A-levels).
Salary Requirements
You must be paid at least £38,700 per year or the 'going rate' for your specific occupation, whichever is higher.
English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate proficiency in English, meeting at least CEFR Level B1.
Financial Support
You should have £1,270 in your bank account to prove that you can support yourself without relying on public funds.
Criminal Record and TB Certificate
You may need to provide a criminal record certificate and a TB certificate, depending on your circumstances.
Genuine Vacancy
Your job must be a genuine vacancy. The Home Office will investigate to ensure that the role is not merely created for visa purposes.
Immigrations Skills Charge
Your employer must have paid the required Immigration Skills Charge for your sponsorship.
Age Requirement
You must be at least 18 years old.
Sponsors Requirements for UK Skilled Worker Visa
To sponsor a foreign worker under the Skilled Worker Visa, employers must:
Hold a Licence
Obtain a valid sponsorship licence from the Home Office.- Provide a CoS
Issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the job role. - Genuine Vacancy
Ensure the job offered is a genuine vacancy, not created solely for the visa. - Pay Immigration Skills Charge
Cover the required Immigration Skills Charge based on the business size and sponsorship duration. - Salary Requirements
Offer a salary that meets or exceeds £38,700 per year or the ‘going rate’ for the occupation.
Conduct Right to Work Checks
Verify the employee’s eligibility to work in the UK.
Compliance
Adhere to all immigration laws and regulations.
Record Keeping
Maintain accurate records of the sponsored employee's details.
Reporting Duties
Inform the Home Office of significant changes, such as job absences or changes in role.
Support Employee
While not mandatory, assist the employee with settling in and navigating local services.
How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa?
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, follow these steps:
Secure a Job Offer
Obtain a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship licence.
Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship
Your employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship, which is essential for your application.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents to support your visa application, including your passport and evidence of English language proficiency.
Complete the Online Application
Fill out the online visa application form on the Home Office website. You can apply up to three months before your intended employment start date, as stated on your CoS.
Pay the Fees
Pay the application fee, biometric fee, and the healthcare surcharge.
Biometric Appointment
Attend an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph.
Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed the online form and attended your biometric appointment, submit your application. You can save your progress if you need to return to it later.
Await the Decision
The Home Office will process your application. You can expect a decision within three weeks if applying from outside the UK. If further information is needed, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will contact you.
Receive Your Visa
If your application is approved, you will receive your visa, allowing you to prepare for your move to the UK.
Get Complete Assistance with Your Skilled Woker Visa Process!
Skilled Worker Visa: Cost and Processing Durations
When applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must consider both the application fees and processing times, which vary based on several factors.
Visa Costs
The application fee depends on the applicant’s circumstances, such as whether the job is on the Immigration Salary List. The same fees apply to any dependants applying alongside the main applicant. The current fees are as follows:
| Applying from Outside the UK: | Up to 3 years: £719 | More than 3 years: £1,420 |
|---|---|---|
| Applying from Inside the UK (switching, updating, or extending) | Up to 3 years: £827 | More than 3 years: £1,636 |
| For roles on the Immigration Salary List or Shortage Occupation roles (for applications made until 3 July 2024), the fees are reduced: | Up to 3 years: £551 | More than 3 years: £1,084 |
Additionally, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS). This charge is typically £1,035 per year, although reduced rates may apply for certain categories.
Processing Times
Processing times for Skilled Worker Visa applications vary based on location:
- From Outside the UK: Generally takes up to 3 weeks.
- From Within the UK: Typically takes up to 8 weeks.
Applicants may have the option to pay for faster processing, depending on the application circumstances.
Chances of Getting Your UK Skilled Worker Visa Refused
Applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa is a detailed process, and understanding the potential reasons for refusal is crucial to enhancing your chances of success.
Here are some common factors that may lead to a visa refusal:
- Insufficient Documentation: Failing to provide all necessary documents or submitting incorrect information can result in refusal. Ensure that your application is complete and includes all required paperwork.
- Inadequate Job Offer: The job must meet specific criteria, including being on the approved list of occupations and meeting the salary threshold. If your job offer does not comply, your application may be rejected.
- Low Salary: The salary offered must meet the minimum requirement, typically £38,700 per year or the 'going rate' for the specific role. Offers below this threshold can lead to refusal.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate an adequate level of English language skills. Failing to provide proof or not meeting the required level can result in refusal.
- Employer Sponsorship Issues: The employer must hold a valid sponsorship licence. If the employer’s status changes or there are issues with their sponsorship, this can negatively affect your application.
- Previous Immigration Violations: Any past breaches of UK immigration rules or overstaying a visa can adversely impact your application. Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character criteria. Serious criminal history or significant health issues can lead to refusal.
Family Inclusion in Your UK Skilled Worker Visa Application
If you're applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you have the option to bring your family with you, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Including your dependants in your application can make the transition to life in the UK much smoother. Here’s what you need to know.
Who Can Be Included as Dependants?
You can include the following family members in your application:
- Your husband or wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
- Your children under 18.
- Your children over 18 if they are already staying in the UK as your dependants and are not married.
Get Throughout Support to Switch to Skilled Worker Visa!
How to Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from Within the UK?
If you are currently in the UK on a different visa and wish to switch to the Skilled Worker Visa, the process can be straightforward, provided you meet the necessary criteria.
Switching from Different Visa Types
The ability to switch into the Skilled Worker route depends on your current visa status:
Suppose you hold a student visa, then you must have completed your studies before switching, unless your job starts after your course ends, or you have been studying for a PhD for at least 24 months.
Ineligible Visa Types: It is not possible to switch to the Skilled Worker category if you are currently in the UK on any of the following visas:
- Visit visa
- Short-term student visa
- Parent of a Child Student visa
- Seasonal worker visa
- Domestic worker in a private household visa
- Permission to stay outside the immigration rules
Bring Your Dependants to the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa
If you hold a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to bring your family members to the UK. Dependants typically include your spouse or partner and your children. The UK government has established specific requirements and processes to facilitate the joining of dependants while you work and live in the country.
Financial Requirements
To successfully bring your dependants to the UK, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support them during their stay. This is in addition to the maintenance funds required for your own visa application. The specific financial requirements are as follows:
- For a Spouse or Partner: You need to show 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.
Transitioning from Skilled Worker Visa to ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
Securing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a key step towards permanent residency in the UK, allowing you to live, work, and study without time restrictions. Here are the essential requirements for Skilled Worker Visa holders:
Eligibility Criteria
- Continuous Residence: You must have lived in the UK for at least five years, with no more than 180 days spent outside the UK in any 12-month period.
- Valid Visa: You need to hold a valid Skilled Worker Visa at the time of your application.
- Employment: You must still be employed by a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence, earning at least £25,600 per year or the ‘going rate’ for your occupation.
- English Proficiency: You must pass an approved English language test at B1 level or higher, unless exempt.
- Life in the UK Test: You must pass this test to demonstrate your knowledge of British customs and history.
Benefits of ILR
After five years, applying for ILR allows you to settle in the UK permanently. Once granted, you won't need to apply for visas or pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, and you may apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
How West End Consultants Can Help?
West End Consultants is a UK-based OISC-regulated immigration consultancy firm with over 15 years of experience in supporting businesses and individuals through visa processes. We specialise in UK expansion worker visas, offering comprehensive assistance to ensure you meet all the requirements.
Our professional team assists businesses in navigating the complexities of obtaining and maintaining sponsor licences, ensuring that you comply with all regulatory standards. We handle all aspects of the application process, from gathering and verifying documentation to managing communications with immigration authorities.
For individual applicants, we provide you with support throughout the visa application process. This includes help with preparing necessary documents, proving English language proficiency, and securing valid job offers.
How We Work?
STEP 1
Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers by phone,
email, web form, or in-person at our office.
STEP 2
Confidentially discuss your
legal problem with our lawyers and learn about the approach they will take to your case.
STEP 3
We get to work and
we will keep you updated on every stage.
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