Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must:

• Job Offer: Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Obtain a valid CoS issued by the sponsoring employer.
• Salary Requirements: Meet the minimum salary threshold, which varies based on the occupation and applicant's qualifications.
• Skill Level: The job must be at RQF Level 3 or above.
• English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate the ability to speak, read, write, and understand English.
• Maintenance Funds: Show evidence of sufficient funds to support oneself and any dependents during the stay.

Points-Based System

Applicants must accumulate 70 points to be eligible.

Mandatory Criteria (50 points):

• Job offer from a licensed sponsor – 20 points
• Job at the required skill level – 20 points
• English language proficiency – 10 points

Tradeable Criteria (20 points):

• Meeting the salary requirement (varies by occupation and qualifications)

Salary Requirements

Salary thresholds depend on occupation and qualifications:

• General Threshold: £38,700 per year or the “going rate” for the occupation, whichever is higher
• PhD in a Relevant Subject: £34,830 per year or 90% of the going rate
• PhD in a STEM Subject: £30,960 per year or 80% of the going rate
• New Entrants: £30,960 per year or 70% of the going rate
• Immigration Salary List Roles: £30,960 per year or the going rate

Required Documentation

Applicants must provide:

• Valid passport or travel document
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Evidence of maintenance funds
• Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
• TB test certificate (if applicable)

Application Process

1. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documentation
2. Online Application: Complete the application on the official UK government website
3. Biometrics Appointment: Attend an appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph
4. Decision: Wait for the Home Office to process the application

Visa Duration and Extensions

• Initial Visa: Valid for up to 5 years, depending on the job offer
• Extensions: Allowed if eligibility criteria continue to be met
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Available after 5 years of continuous residence, subject to meeting specific requirements

Dependents

Eligible dependents include:

• Spouse or partner
• Children under 18

Dependents can apply to join or remain with the main visa holder in the UK.

Costs

Applying from outside the UK:

• Up to 3 years: £769 per person
• More than 3 years: £1,519 per person

Applying from inside the UK (extend, switch, or update):

• Up to 3 years: £885 per person
• More than 3 years: £1,751 per person

For personalized advice and assistance with the Skilled Worker Visa application process, please contact our team of experts.