Skilled Worker Visa UK - Apply Online

Work in the UK for approved employers in skilled occupations. Minimum salary £41,700 (or going rate), B2 English required, with a pathway to settlement after 5 years.

Validity & settlement

Up to 5 years per grant; extendable
Eligible for ILR after 5 years
Dependants can join or accompany

Essentials

Certificate of Sponsorship required
Eligible skilled occupation
English language at CEFR B2

Fees & costs

From £769 (up to 3 years, outside UK)
IHS: £1,035 per year
Maintenance: £1,270 required

About the visa

The Skilled Worker visa enables qualified workers to take up eligible roles with Home Office-licensed sponsors in the UK. Applicants must meet salary and skill thresholds (per SW 4.1–SW 4.4) with a clear route to settlement after 5 years of continuous permission.

Eligibility & key rules

You need a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer, a job in an eligible skilled occupation, a salary of at least £41,700 or the going rate for your occupation, and English language skills at CEFR B2 level. Reduced salary thresholds from £33,400 (or £37,500 for non-STEM PhD) may apply for new entrants, PhD holders, or Immigration Salary List roles.

What you can / cannot do

Permitted: work in the sponsored role, take a second job in an eligible occupation for up to 20 hours per week, study, and bring eligible dependants. Not permitted: accessing public funds or changing employer/role without updating your permission.

Fees, documents & process

Application fees range from £769 to £1,751 depending on duration and location, plus £1,035 per year Immigration Health Surcharge. Apply online with your CoS reference number, provide biometrics and evidence of salary, English ability and maintenance funds (£1,270). Decisions typically in 3–8 weeks depending on location and service level.

Skilled Worker Visa