The UK Skilled Worker visa gives people worldwide a chance to take up jobs in the United Kingdom if they have the right offer. As of November 2025, it covers roles that fit government standards. Rules come from the UK Home Office, including recent changes to pay floors and allowed job types to match the economy’s needs.
What the UK Skilled Worker Visa Covers
It took over from the Tier 2 (General) route in 2020. The visa suits jobs that need a set skill level, shown by official codes. You require a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence, plus a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). It runs for up to five years, and you can renew if you still meet the rules. After five straight years in the UK, most people can apply to stay for good.
Key parts:
- Work only for the sponsor on your CoS unless you tell the Home Office about changes.
- Bring a spouse or partner and kids under 18.
- No claim on most state benefits.
See the full outline on the official GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa page.
Who Can Apply: Basic Requirements
The Home Office lists exact conditions so the job helps the UK and the person matches the role. Here’s what counts in November 2025.
Job and Sponsor
- A firm job offer from an approved UK employer.
- A CoS reference number that works for three months from issue.
- The position must fit an allowed occupation code at RQF3 level or above.
Pay Levels
The usual minimum stands at £38,700 yearly or the standard rate for that code—take the higher one. New starters, like those under 26 or coming off a student visa, need £30,960.
Some roles get lower bars:
- Health and care positions often pay less to qualify.
- Jobs on the Temporary Shortage Occupation List (updated 22 July 2025) include medium-skill levels.
English Skills
Show you handle English at B1 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Options include:
- A degree taught in English and checked that way.
- A recognised test such as IELTS or Trinity College.
- Passport from a country where English is the main language.
Money in the Bank
Hold £1,270 for 28 days straight unless the employer promises to cover you. Add £285 for a partner and £315 for each child.
Extra Checks
- TB test if your country is on the list.
- Clean police record for work with kids or vulnerable adults.
All points follow current Immigration Rules. Check job codes and rates in the Appendix Skilled Occupations list.
How to Apply: Clear Steps
The whole thing usually wraps up in three to eight weeks. Stick to these stages.
Step 1: Get the Job and CoS
Search UK job boards or contact licensed recruiters. When you land the role:
- Have the employer send you the CoS.
- Make sure code, salary, and start date line up with the rules.
Step 2: Collect Your Documents
Round up papers early. You will need:
- Current passport or travel document.
- CoS reference number.
- Proof of English level.
- Bank proof or sponsor’s maintenance note.
- TB result if your country requires it.
- Police certificate for certain jobs.
For family, add marriage or birth papers.
Step 3: Fill the Online Form
- Set up an account on the GOV.UK visa site.
- Pick Skilled Worker and answer each question.
- Upload files and pay.
Fees from outside the UK:
- Up to three years: £719.
- Over three years: £1,420.
Inside the UK for renewal: £827.
Include the Immigration Health Surcharge—£1,035 each year (less for care workers). Rates set 1 July 2025.
Step 4: Give Biometrics
Book a time at the nearest Visa Application Centre. Take your passport, give prints and a photo.
Step 5: Wait for the Decision
Follow the case online. If it passes, you receive a short entry sticker. Pick up the full Biometric Residence Permit once in the UK.
You can ask for a review if turned down. Begin everything at the UK visa application portal.
Key Changes in 2025
Statement of Changes HC 997 came out 1 July 2025 with small pay tweaks based on new wage figures. The Temporary Shortage List added roles on 22 July 2025, opening medium-skill jobs for entry or switch.
From November 2025, linked visas such as High Potential Individual get simpler rules, which can ease Skilled Worker paths. New higher pay for settlement starts 8 January 2026, so November cases use today’s numbers.
Costs and Wait Times
| Item | Cost (GBP) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Entry clearance ≤3 years | 719 | Outside UK |
| Entry clearance >3 years | 1,420 | Outside UK |
| Extension ≤3 years | 827 | Inside UK |
| Health surcharge | 1,035/year | Reduced for care roles |
| Priority service | 500 | Where offered |
| Super priority | 1,000 | Next day (UK) |
Normal wait:
- Outside UK: 3 weeks.
- Inside UK: 8 weeks.
Priority drops it to five working days.
Extending or Switching Jobs
Renew up to 28 days before expiry. Stay in the same role or move inside the sponsor and report it.
To switch employers:
- Secure a fresh CoS.
- File a new form.
After five years, pass the Life in the UK test to settle.
Practical Tips for Success
- Line up every CoS detail with your application.
- Get official translations for any non-English files.
- Keep copies of all uploads.
- Talk to the sponsor’s HR for rule checks.
Final Thoughts
The Skilled Worker visa offers a clear route for capable workers to set up in the UK. November 2025 rules stress fair wages and real gaps in the market. Follow the steps and official links to move forward smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lowest pay for a Skilled Worker visa now?
£38,700 per year or the job’s going rate, whichever is higher. New entrants need £30,960
Can I bring my family on the Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, your partner and children under 18 can join if you show enough funds and housing.
How long does the visa application take?
Usually 3 weeks from outside the UK or 8 weeks from inside; priority service speeds it up.