In the UK’s points-based immigration framework, a Skilled Worker visa is the most common visa type applied for in the UK. It allows migrant workers to be sponsored by a UK organisation to do a specific skilled job in the UK. This route also allows dependents, such as a spouse and/or children, to join the Skilled Worker in the UK.
If you only apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence, you can only sponsor those under the Skilled Worker visa category. For information on the Global Business Mobility Visa, visit our GBMSS page.
If those on a Skilled Worker visa have been in the UK as a Skilled Worker for five years, they’re eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK. This is also known as applying for settlement.
What are the requirements for a Skilled Worker visa?
There are several conditions that must be met before a visa application is approved. The main conditions are:
- The role must come under the Standard Occupation Code (“SOC”) contained in the Immigration Rules.
- The candidate must be paid at least the minimum annual salary associated with that SOC code.
- The Skilled Worker must have a Certificate of Sponsorship from their employer.
- They must be able to read, write, listen, and speak the English language to the required level.
Is my job skilled enough for a Skilled Worker Visa?
Not every job is eligible for this type of visa. You’ll need an occupation code and must be skilled to a minimum of RQF level 3.
Contact us to find out more about whether you qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa.
What if I have issues when applying?
Our expert immigration knowledge can help you with any Skilled Worker visa applications.
We’ve helped with common issues for clients applying under the Skilled Worker. To stop your business from making these common mistakes, our expert team can help you with your visa application from start to finish. This’ll make sure you stay compliant with the relevant immigration rules and regulations.
We’ve acted for many clients who struggled to find the right SOC code for their job title. We can support both corporate and personal clients to decide the best SOC code for the applicant’s job title.
We can also help you to understand the Sponsor Management System (“SMS”). We’ll advise you on generating and assigning Certificate of Sponsorships.
How can we help with Sponsor Licence applications?
There are many aspects to consider when applying for a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK. We offer a tailored range of services to simplify this process for you.
Our team of immigration specialists can carry out a thorough review of your eligibilities for these visas. We’ll then advise on which would be most suitable for you or your workers.
We offer hands-on support when preparing and submitting your Skilled Worker visa application. We can advise on the documents you need to ensure your application has the best chance of success.
Why choose us?
We’ve worked with many businesses and employees with complicated immigration issues. Our lawyers are experienced with UK immigration law and take their time to understand your situation before giving any legal advice.
We’ve been submitting visa applications for years and can advise you whether your planned business activity is suitable for a Business Visitor visa. If it is, we’ll help you with the application process and can challenge the Home Office if you're unfairly rejected. If it isn't, we can suggest alternatives so you can continue with your plans.
We know that applying for a visa can be stressful, so we work to reduce that stress for you. We’ll offer advice and explain things in plain English, so you understand what we’re doing and are always kept in the loop at each stage.
We’re known for being one of the top law firms in the UK by legal guides Chambers & Partners and Legal 500. With offices across the country, we can help you wherever you’re based.
Contact us
Get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can help you – call us on 0808 271 2602 or contact us online.
