A Skilled Worker visa allows you to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer.

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This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa.

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To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must:

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• work for a UK employer that’s been approved by the Home Office

• have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer with information about the role you’ve been offered in the UK

• do a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations

• be paid a minimum salary - how much depends on the type of work you do

• You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply.

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Your visa can last for up to 5 years before you need to extend it. You’ll need to apply to extend or update your visa when it expires or if you change jobs or employer.

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You can apply to extend your visa as many times as you like as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements.

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After 5 years, you may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain. This gives you the right to live, work and study here for as long as you like, and apply for benefits if you’re eligible.

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If You Work In the Public Sector Healthcare

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If you’re a doctor or nurse, or you work in health or adult social care, you might be eligible to apply for the Health and Care Worker visa instead. It’s cheaper to apply for and you do not need to pay the annual immigration health surcharge.

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Contact us for further advice.

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