Skilled Worker Visa
Work in the UK for approved employers in skilled occupations with minimum salary requirements and pathway to permanent settlement.
Validity & settlement
- Up to 5 years per grant; extendable
- Eligible for settlement after 5 years
Essentials
- Job offer + Certificate of Sponsorship from licensed employer
- Eligible occupation and salary; English requirement
About the visa
The Skilled Worker visa enables qualified workers to take up eligible roles with Home Office-licensed sponsors in the UK, subject to salary and skill thresholds, with a clear route to settlement after 5 years.
Eligibility & key rules
You need a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer, an eligible occupation code at the required skill level, an appropriate salary, and to meet the English language requirement and general suitability rules.
What you can / cannot do
Permitted: work in the sponsored role, study, and bring eligible dependants. Not permitted: accessing public funds or changing employers/roles without updating your permission.
Fees, documents & process
Apply online with your CoS, provide biometrics and evidence of salary and English ability. Decisions typically in 3–8 weeks depending on location and service level.
