Skilled Worker Visa 💼
Work in the UK with a skilled job offer from a licensed UK employer.
Overview
The Skilled Worker visa allows you to work in the UK if you have a skilled job offer from a licensed UK employer. This visa is points-tested and requires you to earn at least £28,800 per year (or the going rate for your job, whichever is higher).
Perfect for graduates: Many international students transition from the Graduate Route visa to the Skilled Worker visa with a job offer.
Salary Requirements
💰 Minimum Salary Thresholds
Standard Rate
£28,800 per year (£2,400 per month)
New Entrant Rate
£23,040 per year (£1,920 per month)
For recent graduates under 26Going Rate
Industry-specific minimum salary
Higher of the two rates applies📊 Key Points
- ✓Salary must be paid before tax
- ✓Includes basic salary plus most allowances
- ✓Must be for the job you're being sponsored for
- ✓Can include overtime and commission
- ✗Cannot include employer's pension contributions
Skills and Qualifications
🎯 Job Skill Levels
Skill Level 1
Graduate jobs and senior roles
Degree level or equivalentSkill Level 2
Technical and professional jobs
A-level or equivalentSkill Level 3
Skilled trades and supervisory roles
GCSE or equivalent📋 Required Documents
- ✓Job offer from licensed sponsor
- ✓Certificate of Sponsorship
- ✓English language qualification
- ✓Educational certificates
- ✓Proof of maintenance funds
Application Process
Find a Job
Secure a skilled job offer from a licensed UK employer
Certificate of Sponsorship
Your employer applies for and obtains a Certificate of Sponsorship for you
Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet all requirements including salary and skills thresholds
Apply Online
Submit your visa application with all required documents
Attend Appointment
Provide biometric information at a visa application centre
Benefits of Skilled Worker Visa
Bring Family
Bring your partner and children to live with you in the UK
Study
Study part-time courses without affecting your visa
Progress
Pathway to settlement and potentially indefinite leave to remain
Work
Work for your sponsor and potentially switch employers
Travel
Travel freely in and out of the UK during your visa period
Settle
Apply for settlement after 5 years of continuous residence
🔄 Transitioning from Graduate Route
Many international students use the Graduate Route visa to find work and then transition to the Skilled Worker visa. Here's how it works:
During Graduate Route:
- • Work in any job without restrictions
- • Use this time to find a skilled job
- • Build your CV and work experience
- • Network with potential employers
Switching to Skilled Worker:
- • Get a job offer that meets salary requirements
- • Employer must be a licensed sponsor
- • Apply from inside the UK
- • No need to leave the country