UK Work Visa

Embarking on an overseas career can get tough sometimes. However, with the right guidance and proper documentation, the journey can be less daunting. The Skilled Worker Visa can be your golden ticket to that coveted job in the UK.

Keen to work in the UK on Skilled Worker Visa

The Tier 2 General Work Permit had been replaced by the Skilled Worker Visa, which was introduced after the UK left the European Union. The UK’s Points-Based Immigration System (PBIS) was revamped to cater to a wider pool of skilled workers, both from within and outside the European Economic Area (EEA).

What is the eligibility criteria to apply for Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?

Suitable Points: You must have an academic qualification taught in English that is recognised by the UK National Autonomous University of Research, Technology, and Culture (UK NARIC) or higher, and must have a minimum of 70 points:

20 points for a job offer from a licenced sponsor

You must have a job offer from an employer in the UK who holds a valid sponsor licence. The job offer must be in an eligible occupation as determined by the UK’s Standard Occupational Classification codes.

20 points for job in a shortage occupation list

The SOL (shortage occupation list) is a key part of the UK’s immigration system. It identifies jobs that are in short supply across the country, making it easier for employers to find non-residents to fill these positions.

10 points for English language skills.

The applicant must prove the language proficiency by either passing an approved English language test or by being a national of a majority English speaking country. You must also be able to demonstrate that you can read, write, speak, and listen in English by passing an approved language test at B1 or higher.

20 points for drawing minimum salary

Generally, you must have a salary of £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, or the ‘going rate’ for the job type you are applying for. There are some exceptions for occupations that are in a shortage or are at a PhD level. If you do not work in healthcare or education and do not meet the usual salary requirements, you may still be eligible if your salary is at least £20,960 per year and at least £10.75 per hour.

20 points for an appropriate skill level

The job offer must be an appropriate skill level, which is usually RQF level 3 or above.

10 points for a PhD level occupation.

If the job is in a PhD level occupation, applicant can score an additional 10 points.

What are the other eligibility criteria for the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

No access to Public Funds: In general, you should be able to provide for yourself without having to rely on public funding. The amount of money you need to do this can vary. If your sponsor can provide maintenance for you with the help of the Home Office, this requirement may be waived.

No Criminal History: If you have a criminal record, you may need to provide a criminal record certificate.

Dependants – Family Members: You can either bring dependants or have them live with you in the United Kingdom. A dependant is usually your spouse, partner, fiancée or unmarried partner and children under 18 years of age.

Application: Each dependent will need to complete a different application, and you’ll need to prove that you can afford to provide for them without public aid. In some cases, you’ll be able to meet this financial requirement if your sponsoring employer provides a fully qualified (‘A’ rated) maintenance guarantee.

Rights of Dependants: Rights of dependents: Your dependents are entitled to work and study once in the UK. However, there may be restrictions depending on your visa and situation.

UK Passport holders are allowed visa-free access to 154 countries.

What is the duration of Skilled Worker Visa?

Skilled Worker Visas can allow you to work in the United Kingdom for a maximum of 5 years. After that, you can apply for an extension or indefinite leave to stay, subject to satisfying the requisite qualifying criteria. It is important to make sure you meet all of the requirements for your Skilled Worker visa application and to apply before the expiry date of your current visa.

What is an ILR Visa? An ILR visa is a permanent residence permit in the UK that grants indefinite leave to remain in the UK. After 5 years of skilled worker visa, you are eligible to apply for Indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

Switching from Another Visa: If you are applying for a Skilled Worker visa, you will be able to switch from one of the following visa categories without having to leave the UK:

Tier 4 (Student)
Innovator Visa

Ready to dive into this experience? Start the journey with Immigrans Global to streamline your paperwork, elevate your expertise, and secure your place in the UK job market.

So, are you ready to explore jobs in the UK with Immigrans Global?