Skilled Worker visas in the UK allow those working in high-demand occupations to apply for residency and work permits within the country. Recently, however, rules surrounding this route have been revised, with several changes including the removal of Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) requirements and the implementation of higher salary thresholds.

Skilled Worker Visa Key Eligibility Criteria

Key eligibility criteria for migration employment visa applications include offering jobs in in-demand occupations and possessing at least an RQF level 3 skill set (roughly equivalent to A-levels). Employers must be licensed by the Home Office and receive an A rating, while workers need a Certificate of Sponsorship from their employers containing essential details about the job offer and essential for visa processing.

Financial Requirements

Employees must demonstrate they possess sufficient funds to live comfortably without relying on social assistance, which typically can be demonstrated with bank statements showing they had at least £1,270 in their bank account at the time of applying for their visa. Furthermore, individuals must pass the Life in the UK Test and present evidence of English language proficiency.

Switching Visa Types

At times it may be possible to switch over from another visa such as Tier 2, to the Skilled Worker route. This will depend on factors like how long ago you left the UK, what the purpose of your former visa was, and whether your job fulfils all its requirements. Student visa holders generally cannot switch over, although exceptions could include jobs starting after the completion of studies if working towards their visa for some time before starting employment.

Points-Based System

Finally, applicants must attain at least 20 points on the UK Points Based System (UK PBSS). These points are awarded if their occupational level appears on the Skills Shortage Occupation List or has an accompanying UK four-digit code. Furthermore, there is also an obligation that the job pays at or above the UK “going rate”, currently set at £25,600 per year or the minimum salary requirement, whichever comes first.

Cost Considerations

Cost should also be an important consideration, with visa application fees, healthcare surcharges, and potential additional expenses associated with dependents all having to be factored into any decision process. Consult professional immigration advice to select the UK Skilled Worker route as the ideal route for you and be aware of all of your available options. Imperial & Legal can assist in navigating the complicated yet ever-evolving UK immigration system efficiently. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals as quickly and efficiently as possible—get in touch today and let’s discuss how we can assist!

How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK

Acquiring a skilled worker visa in the UK takes time, effort, and the right documents. The UK government has stringent requirements that must be fulfilled for the approval of an application; otherwise, it will be rejected. There are ways to navigate these hurdles and increase chances of success, such as having an excellent job offer that satisfies all requirements and meeting minimum salary requirements. You could also apply for dependent visas so your family members can join you in the UK.

Checking Occupation Eligibility

First, check that your occupation qualifies for a visa from the Home Office. They maintain a table that lists jobs by occupation code; enter this on their website to see if yours appears there. Furthermore, minimum salary requirements vary by role – typically this will be £25,600 per annum depending on the going rate – plus you must pass an approved English language test of at least B1 level; exceptions could include being nationals of majority English-speaking countries or having been taught your degree entirely in English.

Skilled Worker Visa Application Process

Once you meet all of the requirements for your skilled work visa, the next step is applying online via your UK or foreign sponsor’s portal. Your online application form will ask for various documents from you such as a Certificate of Sponsorship; this document shows proof that you meet sponsorship criteria; it’s essential for visa applications and can only be acquired from licensed sponsors.

Submitting Your Application

Submitting your application to the Home Office is the next step, which you can do either by registering with their online system or attending one of their visa application centers (VACs). An application fee, biometrics fee, and healthcare surcharge must all be paid before providing supporting documents such as medical reports, transcripts, or proof of funds for approval.

Decision and Waiting Time

Once your application has been submitted, if submitted from within the UK you should receive a decision within six weeks, while for applications submitted outside of the UK this can take up to eight weeks for processing.

Handling Rejections

If your visa application is denied, there could be various reasons. One such cause of rejection could be that all required documentation was missing; other causes can include failing to meet salary or education qualification criteria or having a criminal background record.

Administrative Review

If you disagree with a decision by the Home Office, an administrative review can help. A senior official will then examine your case and make a final determination. While this can be a time-consuming and challenging process, it could ultimately yield positive results