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Table of Contents
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a UK Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet several key requirements.
1. Job Offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must provide you with a CoS detailing the role you have been offered.
3. Eligible Occupation: The job must be on the list of eligible occupations.
4. Minimum Salary: You must be offered a salary that meets the minimum threshold, which varies depending on the job.
5. English Language Proficiency: You must prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English.
Salary Requirements
The salary requirement for the Skilled Worker visa is crucial. The minimum salary you must be paid is either £38,700 per year or the ‘going rate’ for your job.
Points Calculator
The UK operates a points-based immigration system. To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, you must score at least 70 points. Points are awarded based on numerous factors:
- Job Offer from an Approved Sponsor: 20 points
- Job at an Appropriate Skill Level: 20 points
- English Language Proficiency: 10 points
- Salary: Points vary depending on the salary offered, with higher points for salaries above the minimum threshold.
Additional points can be earned for jobs in shortage occupations or for holding a PhD relevant to the job.
Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After five years of continuous residence in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to apply for ILR, which allows you to live and work in the UK indefinitely. To qualify for ILR, you must:
- Have lived and worked in the UK for five years
- Meet the salary requirements
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Continue to be needed for your job and meet the salary requirements after obtaining ILR.
Occupation Codes (SOC)
The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes are used to classify jobs. Each job eligible for the Skilled Worker visa has a specific SOC code, which helps determine the ‘going rate’ for the job.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate their English proficiency by passing an approved English language test at B1, B2, C1, or C2 level or by having a degree taught in English. This requirement ensures that applicants can effectively communicate and integrate into the UK workforce.
Healthcare Surcharge
Most applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for their visa application. This surcharge allows visa holders to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Biometric Residence Permit
Once your visa is approved, you will receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). The BRP includes your biographic details, biometric information, and immigration status. It proves your right to live and work in the UK and is required for various administrative processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
You need your employer’s Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), proof of English language proficiency, and evidence of meeting the salary and job requirements.
The processing time is usually around three weeks if you apply outside the UK and eight weeks from within the UK.
Yes, most applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access the UK National Health Service (NHS).
The UK Skilled Worker visa is a popular route for non-UK residents to live and work in the UK. This visa category is designed to attract skilled professionals to fill gaps in the UK labor market.
Below is a detailed guide covering various aspects of the UK Skilled Worker visa, including eligibility, salary requirements, points calculator, and the path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Conclusion
The UK Skilled Worker visa is an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to live and work in the UK. Applicants can better prepare their applications by understanding the eligibility criteria, salary requirements, and the points-based system. Additionally, meeting the English language requirements, paying the healthcare surcharge, and obtaining a BRP are essential steps.
