Date published: 28.07.2025
This article reveals all the key aspects of obtaining the Skilled Worker Visa in the United Kingdom. You will learn who is eligible to apply, what the employer and employee requirements are, how to prepare the documents, how much it costs, what difficulties applicants face, and how to avoid refusal. At the end, you will receive practical tips from the Consultant platform’s lawyers.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is the main work visa in the UK for foreigners who have received a job offer from a British employer holding a Sponsor Licence. This visa allows you to legally live and work in the UK, and over time — obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and even citizenship.
Who can apply?
Main requirements for the applicant:
- Job offer from a sponsor (an employer with a licence);
- Job from the list of eligible occupations;
- Minimum annual salary from £26,200 (or £10.75/hour), though it can be lower for certain roles or junior specialists;
- English language knowledge at least B1 level (CEFR standard);
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer.
What should the employer do?
- Obtain or already have a Sponsor Licence;
- Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with specific job details;
- Ensure that work conditions meet immigration requirements.
What documents are needed?
- A valid passport;
- CoS from the employer;
- Proof of English (e.g., IELTS UKVI or a diploma from an English-speaking university);
- Proof of financial independence (minimum £1,270 in the bank or sponsorship confirmation from the employer);
- Medical certificate confirming absence of tuberculosis (for nationals of certain countries);
- Criminal record certificate (for some professions like education or healthcare).
Cost of the Skilled Worker Visa
- Visa fee: from £719 to £1,500 depending on the duration (3 or 5 years);
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year;
- Legal assistance (optional): the price depends on the case complexity.
How long does it take?
- Standard: 3 weeks from the date of biometrics submission (outside the UK);
- Priority processing is available for an additional fee.
Main difficulties:
- Incorrectly issued CoS — one of the main reasons for refusal;
- Insufficient English level;
- Job or salary not meeting Home Office requirements;
- Lack of documents or financial proof;
- Employer-related issues (e.g., no licence).
How to avoid refusal?
- Check if your profession is on the eligible occupations list;
- Make sure the employer has a Sponsor Licence;
- Ensure the salary is sufficient for your profession;
- Prepare documents with professional legal support;
- Apply only after verifying all aspects, including CoS.
Advantages of the Skilled Worker Visa
- You can live and work in the UK for up to 5 years;
- Opportunity to bring family members (partner, children);
- A path to ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years;
- Access to the NHS;
- Changing employers is possible, but requires a new CoS.
Contact the lawyers on the Consultant platform to:
- Check your eligibility;
- Find a reliable sponsor employer;
- Prepare your application without mistakes;
- Support you at every step of the process.
- Get a initial consultation and take the first step towards life in the UK with trusted experts!
The Skilled Worker Visa is an effective path to employment and life in the UK, but it requires accuracy, attention, and compliance with the rules. Due to numerous bureaucratic nuances and the risk of refusal, legal support significantly increases your chances of successful application.
