UK SKILLED WORKER VISA (FORMERLY TIER 2 WORK PERMIT)

 The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows skilled professionals from outside the UK to live and work in the United Kingdom in eligible job roles. Replacing the former Tier 2 (General) Work Permit, this visa is designed to attract qualified talent in sectors facing skill shortages, including healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and education.

It offers a pathway to permanent residency and ultimately British citizenship for those who meet the long-term criteria.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To qualify for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a Sponsor Licence
  • The job must be on the eligible occupations list
  • Must receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer
  • The job must meet the minimum salary threshold:
    • General threshold: £41,700/year or £20.05/hour (UK New Salary Threshold)
    • Lower threshold: £28,200/year for (Row G) shortage occupations, recent graduates, healthcare roles, etc.
  • Must prove English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent, CEFR level B1 or above)
  • Must have sufficient funds to support themselves unless exempt
APPLICATION PROCESS
  1. Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed UK Sponsor
    Find an eligible role and ensure the employer can legally sponsor foreign workers.
  2. Receive Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
    Your employer will assign a unique reference number that you’ll use in your application.
  3. Prepare and Submit Online Application
    Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa online, upload documents, and pay the application fees.
  4. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
    Mandatory fee for access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
  5. Biometrics and Visa Decision
    Attend a visa application center for biometrics. Decisions are usually made in 3–8 weeks, or faster with priority processing.
  6. Travel to the UK and collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
BENEFITS OF THE UK SKILLED WORKER VISA
  • Work in the UK Legally in a wide range of skilled roles
  • Bring Your Family: Spouse and dependent children can accompany you and work/study
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency (ILR) after 5 years
  • No Labour Market Test for most roles
  • Healthcare Access: Full access to NHS services
  • Possibility to Switch Visa Types from within the UK
  • Opportunity to Settle and Apply for Citizenship after 6 years (PR + 1 year)
OCCUPATIONS IN DEMAND
  • Healthcare & Nursing: Doctors, nurses, care workers, radiographers
  • Engineering: Civil, electrical, mechanical engineers
  • IT & Tech: Software developers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts
  • Education: Secondary school teachers (maths, physics, chemistry, computing)
  • Skilled Trades: Electricians, welders, construction workers

Refer to the official UK Shortage Occupation List for full details.

WHY CHOOSE THE UK?

The UK offers a world-class work environment, strong legal protections, and access to a global job market. With its diverse cities, rich culture, and quality public services, the Skilled Worker Visa provides an excellent opportunity to build a professional future while enjoying life in one of the world’s most developed nations.

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