Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa is the main work route for overseas nationals coming to the UK to work in an eligible role for an approved employer (sponsor). Applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor, meet a minimum salary threshold (generally £38,700 from April 2024, with lower thresholds for some shortage occupations), and demonstrate English language proficiency. The visa can lead to settlement after five years.
The Skilled Worker visa requires a job offer from a UK Home Office-licensed sponsor in an eligible occupation (at RQF Level 3 or above). From April 2026, the general salary threshold is £41,700 per year (or the 'going rate' for the occupation if higher); lower thresholds apply to some shortage occupation roles and new entrants. Applicants must score 70 points: mandatory points include the sponsor (20), eligible job (20), and English language (10); tradeable points cover salary above the threshold. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per adult per year (2025/26) must be paid upfront for the visa duration. After 5 years of continuous lawful residence on the route, applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). A common pitfall is failing to check that the sponsor's licence is current — the Home Office register is publicly searchable. Visa applications are made online; processing typically takes 3 weeks within the UK.
Related guides
Skilled Worker Visa Overview
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for people from outside the UK to work in the country. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 as part of the post-Brexit points-based immigration system. To be eligible, you generally need a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence, and your role and salary must meet the required thresholds.
9 min
Sponsor Licence for Employers
UK employers who want to hire workers from outside the UK (and outside the existing settled workforce) generally need a sponsor licence issued by the Home Office. Without a licence, you cannot issue Certificates of Sponsorship to prospective employees, meaning overseas workers cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa to work for you. This guide explains the process and ongoing obligations.
8 min