The Skilled Worker visa lets people from other countries come to the UK for work. You need a job offer from an approved UK employer. This employer is called a sponsor. The job requires skills.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
This visa is the main work visa for people from overseas. It replaced the old Tier 2 (General) visa. If you get this visa, you can work in a skilled job in the UK. Your employer needs to be able to sponsor you.
You need to meet certain rules to get the visa. These rules look at your skills and how much you will earn. They also check if you can speak English. You also need a job offer from a sponsor.
This visa can last for up to five years. After five years, you might be able to apply to stay in the UK permanently. This is called Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Your family can also come with you. This includes your partner and children.
Who Can Apply?
To apply, you need a job offer. The employer must be a licenced sponsor. They will give you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a special reference number. Your job must be on a list of eligible jobs. The job needs to be at a certain skill level. This is RQF level 3 or above. You also need to earn a minimum amount of money. And you must show you can speak English. You also need to have some money in your bank account.
Money You Need to Earn
For most people, the minimum salary is £38,700 per year. But sometimes, you can earn less. This might be if your job is on a special list. It could also be if you are new to your career. Having a PhD can also mean you can earn less. If you work in health or education, the rules might be different too. Your pay must also be at least the going rate for your job.
Getting a Sponsor and a CoS
First, you need to find a job with a UK employer. They must have a sponsor licence. If they offer you a job, they will give you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This CoS has a special number you need for your visa application.
Skills and English Language
Your job needs to be skilled. This means it needs to be at a certain level. The government uses special codes called SOC codes to check this. You also need to prove you can speak English. You can do this by passing a test. Or, if you have a degree taught in English, that can also work. If you are from certain countries, you might not need to prove your English.
Showing You Have Enough Money
You need to show you have £1,270 in your bank account. This money should have been there for at least 28 days. Sometimes, your employer can promise to support you instead.
How to Apply
You apply for the visa online. You need to fill out a form and pay a fee. You also need to provide documents. These include your passport and the CoS number. You will also need to give your fingerprints and a photo. This is called a biometric appointment.
How Long Does it Take?
It usually takes up to 8 weeks to get a decision if you apply from inside the UK. If you apply from outside the UK, it can take around 3 weeks. You might be able to pay to get a faster decision.
Staying Longer and Other Things
The visa can last for up to 5 years. You can usually extend it if you still meet the rules. If you want to change jobs, you usually need to apply for a new visa. If you lose your job, you have 60 days to find a new sponsor or a different visa. After 5 years on this visa, you might be able to apply to stay in the UK permanently.
It is important to check the official government website for the latest rules and guidance. Getting legal advice can also be helpful from a UK Skilled Worker Visa consultant.
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