Complete Guide to the UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2026
Everything you need to know about the UK Skilled Worker visa, including eligibility requirements, salary thresholds, application process, and finding a sponsor.
Complete Guide to the UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2026
The Skilled Worker visa is the primary route for non-UK residents to work in the United Kingdom. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Skilled Worker visa, from eligibility requirements to the application process.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 as part of the UK’s new points-based immigration system. It allows employers to recruit workers from outside the UK to fill skilled job vacancies that cannot be filled by the domestic labour market.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor
You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid Sponsor Licence. The employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) which is essential for your visa application.
How to find a sponsor:
- Search our UK Sponsor Directory to find licensed employers
- Filter by location, industry, or visa route
- Check the government’s official Register of Licensed Sponsors
2. Skill Level Requirements
Your job must be at skill level RQF 6 or above (equivalent to graduate level qualifications). The specific skill level is determined by the job’s SOC code (Standard Occupational Classification).
Common eligible occupations include:
- Software developers and IT professionals
- Engineers (all disciplines)
- Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, care workers)
- Teachers and educational professionals
- Finance and accounting professionals
- Scientists and researchers
3. Salary Thresholds
As of April 2024, the salary requirements are:
| Requirement Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| General threshold | £41,700 per year |
| Going rate for the job | Varies by occupation |
| New entrant rate | 70% of going rate (minimum £33,400) |
Important: You must meet whichever is higher - the general threshold or the going rate for your specific occupation.
New Entrant Concessions
You may qualify for the reduced “new entrant” salary rate if you:
- Are under 26 years old
- Are switching from a Student visa
- Are in a postdoctoral position
- Have been on a Graduate visa
4. English Language Requirement
You must prove your English language ability at level B2 or higher on the CEFR scale (updated from January 2026). You can do this by:
- Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT)
- Having a GCSE, A Level, or Scottish Higher in English
- Having a degree taught in English
- Being a national of a majority English-speaking country
The Application Process
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Start by finding a job with a licensed sponsor. Use our search tool to find employers in your field who can sponsor visas.
Step 2: Receive Your Certificate of Sponsorship
Once you accept a job offer, your employer will assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship. This is a unique reference number, not a physical document. The CoS contains:
- Your personal details
- Job title and SOC code
- Salary information
- Start date
- Sponsor’s licence number
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to prepare:
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Proof of English language ability
- Bank statements showing adequate funds
- Tuberculosis test results (if from certain countries)
- Criminal record certificate (for certain jobs)
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Apply online through the UK government website. The application fee depends on your circumstances:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard (under 3 years) | £719 |
| Standard (3 years or more) | £1,420 |
| Health and Care Worker | £284 (under 3 years) or £551 (3+ years) |
Step 5: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives you access to the NHS. The current rate is £1,035 per year for most applicants, or £776 per year for students and those under 18.
Note: Health and Care workers are exempt from the IHS.
Step 6: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
You’ll need to visit a visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and photograph. Book this appointment after submitting your online application.
Processing Times
Standard processing times are:
- Applications outside the UK: 3 weeks
- Applications inside the UK: 8 weeks
Priority and super-priority services are available for faster decisions:
- Priority service: 5 working days
- Super-priority service: Next working day (where available)
Duration and Extension
The Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to 5 years at a time. There is no limit on extensions, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
Path to Settlement
After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement), provided you:
- Have been in continuous employment
- Meet the salary threshold at the time of ILR application
- Meet the English language requirement
- Pass the Life in the UK test
- Have not spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking sponsor licence validity - Always verify your employer is on the Register of Licensed Sponsors
- Insufficient salary evidence - Ensure your salary meets the higher of the two thresholds
- Missing the English language requirement - Book your test early as popular dates fill up
- Inadequate maintenance funds - Have at least £1,270 in your account for 28 days
- Incomplete documentation - Double-check all documents before submission
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family?
Yes, you can bring your partner and children under 18 as dependants. They can work and study in the UK.
Can I change employers?
Yes, but you’ll need a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer and must apply to update your visa.
Can I work a second job?
Yes, you can work a second job in the same occupation as your main job, or work up to 20 hours per week in any occupation at skill level RQF 6 or above.
What happens if I lose my job?
Your visa remains valid, but you must find a new sponsored job within 60 days to continue your stay in the UK.
Conclusion
The Skilled Worker visa offers a clear pathway to working and eventually settling in the UK. While the requirements are stringent, careful preparation and finding the right sponsor can make the process smooth.
Ready to start your journey? Search our database to find UK employers with sponsor licences in your industry and location.