How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

A Clear Path to Work and Residency in the United Kingdom

The Skilled Worker Visa offers qualified professionals the opportunity to live and work in the UK with the potential to gain permanent residency and, ultimately, British citizenship. With careful preparation, the process is straightforward and accessible.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Licensed Job Offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visas.
• Minimum Salary: The role must pay at least £26,200 per year or meet the official going rate for the occupation.
• Skill Level: The role must be at RQF Level 3 or higher (equivalent to A-levels).
• English Proficiency: You must demonstrate B1-level English, either via a UKVI-approved test or a degree taught in English.

Step 2: Get Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) once the job offer is confirmed. This is a digital reference number required for your visa application. It contains key details about your role and salary and must be used within 3 months of issuance.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready:

• CoS reference number
• Valid passport or travel document
• Proof of English proficiency
• Employment contract (confirming job title and salary)
• Evidence of financial maintenance (at least £1,270), unless exempt
• Criminal record certificate (for certain roles)
• Tuberculosis test results (if required by your country of residence)

Note: Documents not in English must be accompanied by certified translations.

Step 4: Apply Online

Submit your application via the official UK government portal:
gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Visa Fees:

• Up to 3 years: £625
• More than 3 years: £1,235
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year

Processing Time: Around 3 weeks for applications submitted from outside the UK.

Step 5: Attend Biometric Appointment

After submitting your application, you’ll need to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph:

• Outside the UK: Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
• Inside the UK: Use UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services)

This step is required to issue your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Once your biometrics are submitted, the Home Office will process your application. If successful, you’ll receive:

• A visa vignette in your passport (if applying outside the UK)
• Instructions to collect your BRP once in the UK

After Your Visa Is Approved

Collect Your BRP

Pick up your Biometric Residence Permit within 10 days of arrival at the designated UK Post Office.

Start Working

You may begin working for your sponsoring employer as soon as you have your BRP.

Bring Your Dependants

Spouses, partners, and children can join you if you meet financial requirements. Each must apply individually and show proof of support funds.

Duration and Settlement

The Skilled Worker Visa is usually granted for up to 5 years. After five years of continuous residence, you may apply for Indefinite Leave