UK Skilled Worker Visa

UK Skilled Worker Visa: Navigate the Path to Work in the UK

Secure your future in the UK through the UK Skilled Worker Visa, a pathway designed for qualified individuals with a job offer from an approved employer in the UK. Discover the requirements and application process, and learn how Immtell can support you every step of the way.

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An Overview of the UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity for talented individuals around the globe seeking to work in the UK. Applicants need to have a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor, be able to speak, read, write, and understand English, and have enough money to support themselves without relying on public funds.

You must receive a minimum annual salary of £38,700, or the amount as stated on the Occupational Code (OC code), whichever is higher. In some circumstances you can earn less if:

you work in some healthcare or education jobs;

your job is on the Immigration Skills List;

you’re under 26, studying or a recent graduate, or in professional training;

you have a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) PhD level qualification that’s relevant to your job;

you have a postdoctoral position in science or higher education.

You have a visa in the same category issued before 4 April 2024 and looking to extend or change sponsor.

The role you intend to undertake must be considered as at or above UK A Level (RQF 3)

You must meet the English language requirement of CEFR level B1 in reading, writing, speaking and listening, or be from an ‘English speaking country’

You must obtain work sponsorship from an employer registered as a Home Office sponsor. Upon sponsorship, you will be issued with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), this is like an online UK work permit

You must have held £1,270 in savings for 28 days prior to the date of application, or an A-Rated Home Office sponsor may certify that they will provide this on the CoS. Further funds must be held for each dependant family member applying

FAQs

How long will the Skilled Worker visa be valid for?

Skilled Worker visas are usually granted for an initial period of either up to 3 years or up to 5 years. This is usually in line with the work duration indicated on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) assigned to you, in effect your UK work permit.

Can you extend a Skilled Worker work visa?

If your Skilled Worker sponsorship continues, it is possible to apply for UK work visa extensions from within the UK indefinitely.

Can you switch into this visa from within the UK?

It is possible to apply to switch visa category from within the UK into this visa type, if you are not currently in the UK holding one of the following visa types:

Visitor visa
Short-Term Student visa
Parent of a Child visa
Seasonal Worker visa
Domestic Worker visa
Any Discretionary visa

Please however note that you may still need to meet the requirement to have worked for your employer outside of the UK for the required period, unless exempt.

Do UK Skilled Worker UK work visas lead to ILR?

Following 5 years continuous residence, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, effectively permanent residence providing all the requirements are met at that time.

Can you bring your family as dependents?

Spouses or partners and children under the age of 18 may apply for visas to accompany you to the UK as your ‘dependants’. Your spouse or partner should be permitted to work.

Where should you apply for a UK Skilled Worker visa?

It is permitted to switch into the Skilled Worker visa type from within the UK if you were last granted a visa under certain visa categories. In all other circumstances, initial Skilled Worker visa applications must be from abroad, either from your country of nationality or legal residence.

How long does it take for the visa to be processed?

UKVI aim to process visas as follows:

Visa applications submitted outside of the UK:

Standard processing: 15 working days
Priority Service processing: 5 working days

Visa applications submitted inside the UK:

Standard processing: 8 weeks
Priority Service processing: 5 working days

Important: UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) do not guarantee processing times and delays do occur. We advise that you do not book any non refundable travel until your visa has been approved and your work visa is in your possession. Priority services can be suspended without notice and may not be available at the time of application.

How much does the visa cost?

The UKVI application fee is as follows:

Applying outside of the UK:

Visa up to 3 years duration: £719; or
Visa more than 3 years (max 5) duration: £1,420

If job is on the shortage occupation list:

Visa up to 3 years duration: £551; or
Visa more than 3 years (max 5) duration: £1,084

Applying inside of the UK:

Visa up to 3 years duration: £827; or
Visa more than 3 years (max 5) duration: £1,500

If job is on the shortage occupation list:

Visa up to 3 years duration: £551; or
Visa more than 3 years (max 5) duration: £1,084

In addition, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) which is £1,035 per year of the visa duration.

Our professional fee will depend on the level of service you require.

Pricing

At Immtell, we recognise the importance of skilled workers in driving business success and innovation. We offer three distinct service packages to support your Skilled Worker Visa application, each designed to meet various needs and preferences.

Comprehensive End-to-End Support: Our all-inclusive package provides thorough assistance throughout your visa application process. From initial assessment to final submission, our team of experts ensures every detail is meticulously handled, aligning your application with the specific requirements of the Skilled Worker Visa.
Application Review and Feedback: Tailored for those who prefer to manage their application but seek expert validation, this service includes a detailed review of your completed application. We offer constructive feedback and advice, focusing on enhancing its strength and compliance.
Fast Track Service: Our Fast Track option makes sure your questions are addressed within one working day for ultimate care and swift responses. We expedite the submission process using the Home Office Priority Service, contingent upon payment of the additional fee. This service is ideal for those needing prompt attention and a quicker resolution.

💡 Transparent and Customised Pricing: We provide clear and upfront pricing for each service package. This approach allows you to make an informed decision, selecting the service that best fits your budget and timeline.

📘 Looking for More Details? Visit our FAQ section for additional insights into the Skilled Worker Visa application process and other related questions.

📞 Start Your Skilled Worker Visa Application with Confidence: Whether you need comprehensive support, a professional review, or expedited service, our offerings are tailored to your specific requirements. Contact us to discuss how we can facilitate a smooth and successful visa application.

Immtell's Typical Professional Fees

£ 1,500 + VAT

Eligibility assessment
CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship) drafting and assigning
Advice on English language and TB test requirements (if applicable)
Application preparation and online submission
Appointment booking
Responding to queries from the Home Office
Review of issued documents
Post-arrival Biometric Residence Permit accuracy check

£ 1,700 + VAT

All the features of the Full Service
Guaranteed response to your queries within 1 working day
Expedited review of your documents and information
Speed through Home Office processing with Priority Service, subject to an additional fee. Quick, efficient, effective.
Review of issued documents and feedback provided within 1 working day

Best Value

£ 500 + VAT

Specialist review of your prepared application
Assess application against the relevant rules and legislations
Provide feedback and recommendations for improvement (if applicable)

How Can Immtell Help with Your UK Skilled Worker Visa Application?

Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa can seem daunting with its various requirements and processes. However, with Immtell by your side, the task becomes more manageable and less stressful. Our team of immigration experts is adept at guiding applicants through the maze of paperwork, offering personalized assistance throughout the entire application process.