How long can I stay in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa?

The Skilled Worker visa allows you to stay for up to 5 years before you need to extend it or apply for permanent residency.

Can I bring my family members to the UK?

Yes, you can bring your partner and children as 'dependants,' provided you have enough funds to support them.

Do I need to take an English language test?

Most applicants must prove they can speak, read, write, and understand English to at least level B1 on the CEFR scale.

Can this visa lead to British Permanent Residency?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can usually be applied for after 5 years of continuous residence on a Skilled Worker visa.

What happens if my employment is terminated?

If you lose your job, you typically have 60 days to find a new licensed sponsor or leave the UK.

Can I work a second job on a UK Work Visa?

Yes, you can take on additional work for up to 20 hours a week in the same occupation code or a shortage occupation.

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?

A CoS is a digital record provided by your UK employer that confirms the details of the job you have been offered.

What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

The IHS is a mandatory fee that allows you to use the National Health Service (NHS) while living in the UK.

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work visa

United Kingdom Work Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The United Kingdom offers various work visa routes designed to attract global talent and address labour market shortages. The most common pathway is the Skilled Worker visa, which requires a confirmed job offer from a Home Office-approved employer. This points-based system ensures that applicants meet specific criteria regarding salary, skill level, and English language proficiency. Navigating the UK's immigration system involves securing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and paying the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge. While the process is rigorous, it provides a stable path for professionals to build a career in one of the world's most dynamic economies. Please note that visa policies are subject to frequent change; always verify current rules with an official embassy or the Home Office before applying.

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.

Rush option available

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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Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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