Introducing the Skilled Worker visa
The free movement policy which had previously allowed EU nationals to live and work in the UK without restrictions ended on 31 December 2020. As a result, both EU and non-EU nationals now require a visa to work in the UK.
The flagship UK immigration route for both EU and non-EU individuals wishing to be employed in the UK is the Skilled Worker visa. One of the key steps in obtaining a Skilled Worker visa is securing a verified job offer from a UK company.
Skilled Worker visa Requirements
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa,, applicants will need:ts:
- An offer of a job that requires a certain level of skill and professional expertise ,
- A prospective employer that holds a valid UK Sponsor License, a special government permit allowing UK companies to hire workers from outside the UK. If the prospective employer does not hold such a license, they can apply for one.
- A salary offer equal to or exceeding the minimum threshold of £25,600 per annum, although the exact rate of pay may be higher, depending on the job. This is e determined on a case-by-case basis. The salary can also be lower than the prescribed minimum amount if the job is on the shortage occupation list or the worker meets certain eligibility criteria.
- Proven knowledge of the English language. The minimum level required is B1 on the CEFR scale.
- At least £1,270 in cash savings. This is required for applicants to support themselves during their first month of employment in the UK. Alternatively, the hiring company can provide an undertaking for the equivalent amount.
Skilled Worker visa application process
Visa candidates can apply for the Skilled Worker visa online.
Applicants will need to provide documentary evidence to show that they meet the requirements for this visa.. The key document here is the Certificate of Sponsorship issued by a licensed sponsor, which will confirm the details of the applicant’s employment, including the skill level and the salary.
To meet the English language requirement, applicants can rely on:
- a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English,
- a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English,
- an English Language Test – it is critical to ensure the test provider is approved by the Home Office for the test results to be accepted.
Skilled Worker visa fees
The base fee for a Skilled Worker Visa application ranges from £610-£1,048 depending on a variety of factors, including the length of the visa and the nature of the job.
Applicants will also be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£624 per visa year).
Skilled Worker visa application processing time
On average, it takes up to 15 working days for the application to be processed. To expedite the process, applicants can make use of the priority service, reducing the processing times down to 5 working days.
Skilled Worker visa extension
There is currently no cap on how many times a Skilled Worker Visa can be extended. After 5 years of residence in the UK, Skilled Worker Visa holders may be eligible for settlement in the UK.
Quick Consultation Form
Would you like to learn more about this visa or find out which UK immigration route best suits your needs? Speak to us at +44 (0) 020 808 73583 or fill out our Quick Consultation form.
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