United Kingdom Work Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Pathways for skilled workers, health professionals, and specialists
- Option to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years
- Includes the ability to bring eligible family members (dependants)
- Standard processing within 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK
- Covers a wide range of eligible occupations across various sectors
- Priority and Super Priority services available for faster decisions
Processing time
3 - 8 weeks
Processing times begin once you have attended your biometric appointment or scanned your documents.
Estimated cost
£1,750+ (Variable)
- Application Fee (standard)£719 - £1,500+
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)£1,035 per year
- Maintenance Requirement (unless exempt)£1,270
Requirements
- A confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office
- A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
- The job must be at an eligible skill level (RQF 3 or above)
- A salary that meets the minimum threshold for your specific role
- Proof of English language proficiency (B1 level or higher)
- Sufficient personal savings to support yourself upon arrival (£1,270)
- A valid TB test certificate if applying from certain countries
- A clean criminal record for roles in health, education, or social care
Documents you'll need
- Valid international passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Evidence of personal savings (bank statements)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if from a listed country)
- Criminal record certificate (for specific roles)
- Valid ATAS certificate (if job requires it)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Secure a Job Offer
Find a role with a UK company that holds a valid Worker Sponsor Licence.
- 2
Obtain Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer will assign you a digital certificate containing a reference number needed for your application.
- 3
Pay Immigration Health Surcharge
Calculate and pay the IHS online to cover your healthcare costs during your stay.
- 4
Complete Online Application
Fill out the online application via the official GOV.UK portal.
- 5
Attend Biometric Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a visa application centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
- 6
Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload your passport, CoS, and financial evidence as part of your digital file.
- 7
Receive Visa Decision
Wait for the Home Office decision, which is usually delivered via email.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your CoS matches your passport details exactly to avoid administrative rejection.
- Do not quit your current job until your UK visa is officially approved.
- Keep at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying.
- Check if your job falls under the 'Shortage Occupation' list for lower application fees.
- Double-check that your English language test provider is Home Office approved.
- Provide certified translations for any documents not written in English or Welsh.
Frequently asked questions
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.