Skilled Worker visa

A Skilled Worker visa allows foreign nationals to legally live and work in the UK under employment by a licensed sponsor. To apply for this visa, a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with a unique CoS number must be issued by your UK employer.A Skilled Worker visa allows you to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer.

This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. It also allows you to work in UK waters.

Check your CoS number

CoS check to confirm the validity of your Certificate of Sponsorship status:
Click here to check CoS status

Requirements for Skilled Worker Visa

Employer: Must be licensed to sponsor overseas workers and offer a job that meets immigration rules.
You (the applicant): Must possess the required qualifications and experience and must be ready to fulfil the responsibilities listed in the CoS.

Steps to Apply for a Skilled Worker Vis

Find a Job
Look for a position with a UK-based company that holds a valid sponsor licence.
Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your prospective employer applies to the UK Home Office for a CoS. It contains your personal CoS number, job title, salary, and employment duration.
Prepare Required Documents
You will need your passport, Certificate of Sponsorship, qualifications, and proof of financial support.

UK Skilled Worker Visa Costs

Main Costs

Application Fee: Varies depending on visa length and whether you apply from inside or outside the UK. From £769
Healthcare Surcharge: Usually £1,035
Maintenance Funds: Must show at least £1,270 in your bank account, held for 28 consecutive days before applying.

Additional Costs

Migration Salary List Reduction: Reduced fees for certain listed jobs.
Extensions: Visa extension fees may differ from the initial application.
Optional Services: You may incur fees for services like fast-track processing or document translation.

Financial Requirements

Minimum Funds: £1,270 required for living expenses.
Exemptions: If you’ve lived in the UK for 12+ months or your employer certifies maintenance, you may be exempt.
Dependents: Each family member must also show £1,270 in financial support.

Validity and Visa Duration

Apply up to 3 months before your job’s start date (as listed in your CoS).

Processing Time:

Outside UK: Usually 3 weeks
Inside UK: Usually 8 weeks
Fast Track: Available at an extra cost

What You Can and Cannot Do on a Skilled Worker Visa

Permitted:

Work in your sponsored role
Study part-time
Bring family (spouse and children)
Volunteer
Travel internationally

Not Permitted:

Claim most UK public funds (benefits or pension)
Change employer/job without UKVI approval

Work Eligibility and Job Requirements

To qualify:

Your job must be on the UK Shortage Occupation List or otherwise eligible.
You must be paid at least the minimum salary:
- £38,700/year, or
- The “going rate” for the specific occupation

Your employer must verify and report this via your CoS number, ensuring that it aligns with UK employment laws.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Why It Matters

A Certificate of Sponsorship is an essential document for applying for a Skilled Worker visa. It confirms your job offer and the employer’s legal responsibility to sponsor your visa.

The CoS includes:

Your unique CoS number
Job title and responsibilities
Salary offered
Employment duration
Sponsor licence number of the employer

After Receiving the CoS:

Check CoS Status:
Confirm the validity of your Certificate of Sponsorship status and CoS number.
Check CoS
Apply Within 3 Months:
The CoS is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Apply for your visa within this timeframe.
Gather Documents:
Required documents usually include:
- Passport
- Photos
- CoS certificate
- Proof of qualifications
- Proof of funds
- ATAS certificate (if applicable)
Submit Application
Include your CoS number in the visa application.
Pay the Fees
Pay visa and health surcharge fees promptly.
Biometric Registration
Attend your appointment for fingerprinting and photo capture.

Important: Double-check all documentation and apply early to avoid delays.

Application Delays: What to Expect

Delays may occur if:

Additional verification is needed
Documents are incomplete
A criminal record or security check is triggered
An interview is required

Expedited Service

A priority processing option is available for an additional fee. Timeframes and costs are available during your application process.

Summarizing

Always verify your CoS number and Certificate of sponsorship status. This ensures that your CoS check is valid and that your visa application proceeds without issues. Click here