The Skilled Worker visa is the primary immigration route for international professionals to come to the UK to take up an eligible job with a Home Office-approved employer. This visa is your gateway to a UK career, offering a direct path to permanent settlement for you and your family. However, the application process is rule-heavy, with strict requirements for your job, salary, and English language ability.

Navigating this complex process requires precision and expert knowledge. Our team of specialist immigration advisors provides comprehensive, end-to-end support for Skilled Worker visa applications. We work with both employees and employers to ensure every aspect of the application is handled meticulously, from the initial Certificate of Sponsorship to the final visa decision, guaranteeing the best possible chance of a successful outcome.

Core Eligibility Requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must meet four fundamental requirements. A failure in any one of these areas will lead to a refusal.

1. You Must Have a Job Offer from an Approved Employer
Your UK employer must hold a valid Sponsor Licence issued by the Home Office. They must have offered you a genuine role and be willing to ‘sponsor’ your visa application.

2. You Must Have a Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once you have a confirmed job offer, your employer will assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is not a physical document but a unique digital reference number containing key information about you, your employer, and the job role you have been offered. You must have a valid CoS before you can apply.

3. Your Job Must be on the List of Eligible Occupations
The role you have been offered must be considered skilled enough to qualify. The Home Office maintains a list of eligible occupation codes, and your job must correspond to one of these codes.

4. You Must be Paid a Minimum Salary
Your salary must meet or exceed a specific minimum threshold. This threshold depends on the specific job you are doing (the ‘going rate’ for that occupation code) and the date your CoS was assigned. The salary requirements have increased significantly, making this a critical part of the application.

The Application Journey: How, When, and What to Expect

Understanding the process is key to a stress-free application.

How to Apply: You must apply online. The process differs slightly depending on whether you are applying from outside the UK or are already inside the UK and extending or switching from another visa category.
When to Apply: You can submit your visa application up to 3 months before the start date listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
Decision Timelines: After you have applied online and provided your biometric information, you can typically expect a decision within:
- 3 weeks if you are applying from outside the UK.
- 8 weeks if you are applying from inside the UK.
  Faster priority services are often available for an additional fee.

Your Life in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker visa offers a stable and long-term route to building a life in the UK.

Visa Duration: Your initial visa can be granted for up to 5 years, depending on the length of your employment contract.
Extensions: You can extend your visa as many times as you like, provided you continue to meet the eligibility rules. You must apply to update your visa if you change jobs or move to a different employer.
Bringing Your Family: Your partner and any children under 18 can apply to join you in the UK as your ‘dependants’.
The Path to Settlement: After completing 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on this route, you will likely be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as permanent settlement. ILR allows you to live, work, and study in the UK without visa restrictions.

What You Can and Cannot Do

Your Skilled Worker visa comes with a clear set of rights and restrictions.

You CAN:

Work in your sponsored job.
Study in the UK.
Take on limited additional work (under specific conditions).
Travel abroad and return to the UK.
Do unpaid voluntary work for a registered charity or statutory body.
Bring your eligible family members with you.

You CANNOT:

Claim most benefits (public funds) or the State Pension.
Change your job or employer without first applying to update your visa and getting it approved.

The Health and Care Worker Visa: A Specialist Route

If you are a qualified doctor, nurse, or health and social care professional with a job offer from the NHS, an NHS supplier, or in adult social care, you may be eligible for the specialist Health and Care Worker visa. This route offers significant benefits, including lower application fees and an exemption from the annual Immigration Health Surcharge.

Why Expert Guidance is Crucial for Your Skilled Worker Application

The Skilled Worker route is a points-based system with no room for error. A small mistake on the CoS, a miscalculation of the salary threshold, or incorrect supporting documents will lead to refusal. Our expert immigration advisors provide:

Comprehensive Eligibility Assessments: We confirm that you, your employer, and your job offer meet all the strict criteria.
Support for Sponsors: We work directly with your employer’s HR team to ensure the Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned correctly.
Meticulous Application Management: We handle the entire online application and document submission process, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Guidance for Your Family: We manage the dependant applications for your partner and children, ensuring your family can join you smoothly.

A Detailed Guide to Job & Salary Requirements

Securing a job offer is the first step towards your UK career, but to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, your job must meet a strict and complex set of eligibility criteria set by the Home Office. The rules cover your employer’s status, the skill level of your role, and a demanding minimum salary threshold. Understanding these rules is essential for a successful application.

Our team of specialist immigration advisors provides expert guidance on every aspect of the job and salary requirements. We work closely with both you and your UK employer to ensure that your role, your Certificate of Sponsorship, and your salary all perfectly align with the complex immigration rules, laying the groundwork for a successful visa application.

The Four Pillars of Job Eligibility

Your job offer must satisfy all of the following requirements. A failure in any one area will result in a refusal.

Your employer must be a Home Office-approved sponsor.
You must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations.
Your salary must meet the minimum threshold.

Requirement 1 & 2: Your Approved Employer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Before you can even consider applying, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid Sponsor Licence.

Finding a Sponsor: You can view the official list of registered UK sponsors to see which companies are approved to hire skilled workers.
What if my employer is not a sponsor? If your potential employer is not on the list, they can apply for a sponsor licence. This process can take around 8 weeks and involves a fee. We can provide guidance to your employer on this process.
The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Once your employer has confirmed you meet the requirements, they will assign you a CoS. This is a crucial electronic record with a unique reference number that you must have for your visa application. You must apply for your visa within 3 months of your CoS being issued.

Special Requirement for Care Workers: If you are being sponsored as a Care Worker (occupation code 6135) or Senior Care Worker (code 6136) in England, your employer must also be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Requirement 3: Is Your Job Eligible? Understanding Occupation Codes

Not every job in the UK qualifies for a Skilled Worker visa. Your role must be considered skilled enough by the Home Office.

Finding Your Occupation Code: Every eligible job has a unique 4-digit occupation code. Your employer should provide this to you. If not, you can use the government’s CASCOT occupation coding tool to search for your job title and find the corresponding code.
Matching the Job Description: It is vital that the duties of your role match the official job description for that occupation code. For example, a skilled ‘Bricklayer’ is eligible, but a ‘Construction Labourer’ is not.
Checking the Eligible Occupations Table: Once you have your code, you must check it against the official table of eligible jobs. The job must be listed as a ‘higher skilled’ or ‘medium skilled’ occupation to qualify.

Requirement 4: The Minimum Salary Threshold (The Most Complex Rule)

Your salary must be equal to or higher than the highest of the following two figures:

The general salary threshold, which is £41,700 per year.
The specific ‘going rate’ for your particular occupation code.

Example:
You are offered a job as an IT consultant with a salary of £42,000 per year. This is above the £41,700 general threshold. However, if the official ‘going rate’ for your specific IT consultant occupation code is £45,000, your £42,000 salary would not be high enough, and your application would be refused.

You must check the going rates table for your occupation code to determine the specific rate you must be paid.

When Can You Be Paid Less? Understanding ‘Tradeable Points’

In some specific circumstances, you may still be eligible even if your salary does not meet the high general threshold. If your salary will be at least £33,400 per year, you might qualify if you can claim ‘tradeable points’. This is a complex area but can apply if:

You have a PhD relevant to your job.
Your job is on the Immigration Salary List (a list of roles with skills shortages).
You are a ‘new entrant’ to the labour market (e.g., under 26 or a recent graduate).

Different Rules for Healthcare and Education

If you have a job in certain public sector healthcare or education roles, the ‘going rate’ is based on nationally agreed pay scales, and the salary requirements are different.

How Our Experts Ensure Your Job Meets the Requirements

The job and salary rules are the most complex part of the Skilled Worker route and are subject to frequent change. A small error by you or your employer can lead to a refusal. Our specialist service ensures this doesn’t happen.

We liaise directly with your employer to ensure the occupation code and job duties are correctly matched.
We perform a detailed salary assessment to confirm your pay meets the highest of the general threshold or the specific going rate.
We assess your eligibility for ‘tradeable points’ to see if you can qualify on a lower salary.
We review your Certificate of Sponsorship before it is assigned to ensure every detail is accurate and compliant.

A Guide to Qualifying with a Lower Salary

The salary requirements for the UK Skilled Worker visa are a significant hurdle for many applicants. The standard threshold is high, requiring a salary of at least £41,700 per year or the specific ‘going rate’ for your job, whichever is higher. However, the UK’s immigration system includes several important concessions that allow you to qualify with a lower salary if you meet specific criteria. This is known as the ‘tradeable points’ system.

Understanding if you can benefit from these concessions is a complex but crucial part of your application strategy. Our team of specialist immigration advisors are experts in the tradeable points system. We will conduct a detailed assessment of your qualifications, age, and job offer to determine if you can qualify for a Skilled Worker visa on a lower salary, opening up a pathway to a UK career that might otherwise seem out of reach.

The Foundation: The Lower Salary Threshold

To even be considered under the tradeable points system, your salary must meet a baseline minimum. Even if you qualify for a discount, your sponsored salary must be at least £33,400 per year. If your salary is below this, you will not be eligible for the Skilled Worker route.

Four Main Pathways to Qualifying with a Lower Salary

If your salary is £33,400 or higher but does not meet the high standard rate for your job, you may still be eligible if you fall into one of the following four categories.

Pathway 1: Your Job is on the Immigration Salary List (ISL)

The Immigration Salary List (formerly the Shortage Occupation List) identifies jobs where there is a recognised skills shortage in the UK.

What is the benefit? If your job’s occupation code is on the ISL, the general salary threshold you must meet is lower. You must be paid at least £33,400 per year or the standard going rate for the job, whichever is higher.
Lower Visa Fees: Sponsoring a job on the ISL also comes with a lower visa application fee, providing a cost saving for you or your employer.
How to check: You must view the official Immigration Salary List to see if your specific occupation code is included. It is essential to check that the role is listed for the part of the UK where you will be working (e.g., England, Scotland, etc.).

Pathway 2: You are a ‘New Entrant’ to the Labour Market

This concession is designed to help younger applicants and recent graduates begin their careers in the UK. You are considered a ‘new entrant’ if you meet certain criteria, such as:

You are under 26 years old on the date you apply.
You are switching from a Student visa, having recently completed a degree-level course in the UK.
You are switching from a Graduate visa.
You are working towards a recognised professional qualification or registration in a regulated profession.
What is the benefit? As a new entrant, you can be paid 70% of the standard going rate for your job, as long as your salary is at least £33,400 per year.
Important Limitation: If you are sponsored under the new entrant provisions, your total stay in the UK on a Skilled Worker and/or Graduate visa cannot exceed 4 years.

Pathway 3: You Have a Relevant PhD Qualification

Your high-level academic qualifications can allow for a lower salary.

If you have a relevant STEM PhD: You can be paid 80% of the standard going rate for your job, provided your salary is at least £33,400 per year.
If you have a relevant non-STEM PhD: You can be paid 90% of the standard going rate for your job, provided your salary is at least £37,500 per year.
How to qualify: You must be able to prove your PhD is genuine (if from overseas, this requires an Ecctis assessment) and that it is relevant to the job you are being sponsored for. Your employer must confirm its relevance on your Certificate of Sponsorship. You must also check that your job’s occupation code is on the list of jobs eligible for a PhD salary discount.

Pathway 4: You Have a Postdoctoral Position

This is a specific concession for researchers in certain scientific and higher education roles.

What is the benefit? If you are sponsored for a postdoctoral position in an eligible occupation code (such as chemical scientist, biological scientist, or higher education teaching professional), you can be paid 70% of the job’s standard going rate.
Eligible Occupation Codes: You must check that your job falls into one of the specific occupation codes listed in the immigration rules to qualify.
Important Limitation: As with the new entrant route, your total stay in the UK on this basis is limited to 4 years.

Let Our Experts Navigate the Complexity for You

The tradeable points system is one of the most complex areas of UK immigration law. A misinterpretation of the rules can lead to a visa refusal, wasting time and money. Our specialist immigration advisors live and breathe these rules. We will:

Conduct a full assessment of your profile against all tradeable points criteria.
Calculate the precise salary you need to be paid based on your specific circumstances.
Advise you and your sponsor on the best and most appropriate route for your application.
Ensure your Certificate of Sponsorship correctly reflects the tradeable points you are claiming.

UK Skilled Worker Visa for Healthcare & Education Professionals: A Guide to Salary Rules

The UK highly values international professionals in its vital public sectors. In recognition of this, the immigration rules for healthcare and education professionals on a Skilled Worker visa have a distinct and more favourable salary structure compared to other industries. If you have a job offer in one of these eligible roles, you are not subject to the high general salary threshold of £41,700.

Understanding these specific salary rules is crucial for both you and your sponsoring employer. Our team of specialist immigration advisors has in-depth experience with applications for the healthcare and education sectors. We provide clear, accurate guidance to ensure your salary meets the national pay scale requirements, leading to a successful visa application.

The Salary Advantage for Healthcare and Education Roles

If your job is on the official list of eligible healthcare or education occupations, you benefit from a different set of salary rules. Instead of the high general threshold, your salary must be at least £25,000 per year AND equal to or higher than the specific ‘going rate’ for your role as defined by national pay scales.

National Pay Scales: The ‘going rate’ for these jobs is not an arbitrary figure set by the Home Office. It is based on the established, nationally recognised pay bands and scales used across the UK, for example, the NHS pay bands for healthcare staff or the teacher pay scales for educators.
Applies to Public and Private Sectors: A crucial point is that these national pay scale rates apply as the minimum ‘going rate’ even if you are being sponsored to work in the private sector (e.g., a private hospital or an independent school). The private employer must still pay you at least the equivalent national pay scale rate for that role.

Step 1: Is Your Job on the Eligible List?

The first and most important step is to confirm that your specific job and its 4-digit occupation code are included on the official list of eligible healthcare and education jobs. This list is published by the Home Office and is the definitive source. If your job is not on this specific list, you will be subject to the standard salary rules for all other skilled workers.

Step 2: Checking the National Pay Scale Tables

Once you have confirmed your job is on the list, you must then check the corresponding national pay scale table to find the correct ‘going rate’ for your specific role and location.

For Healthcare Professionals

You will need to consult the table of national pay scales for eligible healthcare jobs.

How it works: This table is organised by NHS pay bands (e.g., Band 5, Band 6) and the specific area of the UK you will be working in (England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland), as pay scales can differ slightly.
What you need to know: Your employer must confirm the exact pay band your job corresponds to. For example, a newly qualified nurse would typically be on Band 5, and their salary must meet or exceed the going rate for a Band 5 nurse in England.

This route is closely related to the Health and Care Worker visa, which is the primary route for most clinical roles. The Health and Care visa offers further benefits, including lower visa fees and an exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge. We can advise you on which visa is the most appropriate for your role.

For Teachers and Education Leaders

You will need to consult the table of national pay scales for eligible teaching and education leadership jobs.

How it works: This table is organised by specific roles (e.g., qualified teacher, headteacher) and the relevant pay range for the area of the UK you will be working in. For teachers in England, this often relates to the main and upper pay ranges, which can also have different rates for London and the rest of the country.
What you need to know: Your sponsoring school or educational body must confirm your role and where your salary sits on the relevant national pay scale.

How Our Experts Ensure Your Application is Compliant

The salary rules for healthcare and education are more favourable, but they are still precise. A mistake in identifying the correct pay band or going rate will lead to a visa refusal. Our specialist advisors eliminate this risk.

We verify your job’s eligibility against the official Home Office list.
We work with your employer to confirm the correct national pay band and scale point for your specific role and location.
We calculate the precise going rate you must be paid to ensure full compliance with the immigration rules.
We review your Certificate of Sponsorship to guarantee that the salary details are entered correctly, preventing any discrepancies that could jeopardise your application.

Your Expert Guide to the English Language Requirement

Proving your ability to communicate in English is a mandatory and non-negotiable part of your UK Skilled Worker visa application. The Home Office has strict and specific rules on how you must demonstrate your proficiency. A failure to provide the correct evidence, taking the wrong type of test, or misunderstanding an exemption can lead to an immediate and costly visa refusal.

Our team of specialist immigration advisors provides clear, detailed, and accurate guidance on every aspect of the English language requirement. We will assess your individual circumstances to determine the simplest and most effective way for you to meet the criteria, ensuring this critical component of your application is handled perfectly for a successful outcome.

What is the Required Level of English?

To be granted a Skilled Worker visa, you must prove that you can read, write, speak, and understand English to at least Level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. This is an intermediate level, demonstrating you can communicate effectively in most everyday and workplace situations.

Important Future Change: Please be aware that the Home Office has announced that from 8 January 2026, the requirement for new Skilled Worker visa applicants will increase to Level B2. Our advisors can help you plan your application with these future changes in mind.

Three Main Pathways to Prove Your English Proficiency

You can satisfy the English language requirement through one of three distinct routes. We can help you determine which pathway is the most appropriate and straightforward for you.

Pathway 1: Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT)

This is the most common method for most applicants. It involves taking a specific English language test from a provider that is officially approved by the UK Home Office.

What is a SELT? It stands for Secure English Language Test. You must ensure the test you book is specifically the ‘UKVI’ version (e.g., IELTS for UKVI, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI). A standard academic or general test will not be accepted.
Where to take the test: You must take your test at a Home Office-approved test centre, a list of which is available on the GOV.UK website.

Pathway 2: Use an Eligible Academic Qualification

You can use a past academic qualification as evidence, which can save you the time and expense of taking a new test.

UK School Qualifications: If you studied at a UK school when you were under 18 and gained a GCSE, A Level, Scottish National Qualification Level 4 or 5, or a Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher in English, this will be accepted.
A Degree-Level Qualification Taught in English: If you have a degree that is equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD and it was taught in English, you can use this.
- If your degree is from a UK university: You simply need to provide your degree certificate.
- If your degree is from outside the UK: This is a crucial two-step process. You must first apply to the UK’s designated body, Ecctis, for a formal assessment. Ecctis will provide an official certificate confirming that your degree is academically equivalent to a UK degree and that it was taught in English. You must have this certificate before you submit your visa application.

Pathway 3: You Have Already Proven it in a Past Visa Application

If you have a previous successful UK visa application where you had to prove your English language ability at CEFR level B1 or above, you can often rely on that for your new Skilled Worker application.

Who is Exempt? A Guide to Who Does Not Need to Take a Test

You are completely exempt from the English language requirement and do not need to provide any evidence if you are a national of one of the following majority English-speaking countries:

Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
The Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Canada
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Jamaica
Malta
New Zealand
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
USA

A Special Exemption for Doctors, Nurses, Midwives, Dentists, and Vets

A crucial exemption exists for specific healthcare professionals. You do not need to take a separate SELT for your visa application if you have already passed an English language assessment that is accepted by your designated UK professional regulatory body.

For example, if you are a doctor who has already passed the required English test to gain registration with the General Medical Council (GMC), or a nurse who has done the same for the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), this is sufficient proof for your visa application.

Why Expert Guidance on the English Requirement is Essential

The English language requirement is a simple rule to get right, but a devastating rule to get wrong. Our expert immigration advisors eliminate any risk of refusal on these grounds. We will:

Confirm your eligibility for an exemption based on your nationality or profession, potentially saving you hundreds of pounds and weeks of preparation.
Advise on the most efficient pathway for you, whether it’s using your degree and navigating the Ecctis process or booking the correct SELT.
Ensure your documentary evidence is flawless, whether it’s an Ecctis certificate, a degree certificate, or a SELT results sheet.

A Detailed Breakdown of Fees & Financial Requirements

Applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa represents a significant financial investment. Understanding the full range of costs involved is a crucial step in planning your move to the UK. The total amount you need to pay is made up of three distinct components: the visa application fee, the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge, and the funds required to support yourself upon arrival.

This guide provides a clear and comprehensive breakdown of all the costs you need to budget for. Our team of specialist immigration advisors offers transparent advice on fees from the very start, ensuring you have a full picture of the financial commitment required for you and your family, with no hidden surprises.

The Three Core Costs of a Skilled Worker Visa

You must be prepared to cover the following three main expenses.

1. The Visa Application Fee

This is the standard government fee for processing your application. The amount you pay depends on the duration of your visa (as stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship) and whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK.

Standard Application Fees:

	Visa for up to 3 years	Visa for more than 3 years
Applying from outside the UK	£769 per person	£1,519 per person
Applying from inside the UK	£885 per person	£1,751 per person

Reduced Fee for Jobs on the Immigration Salary List (ISL):
If your job is on the official Immigration Salary List (ISL), you and your family benefit from a lower application fee.

Visa for up to 3 years: £590 per person
Visa for more than 3 years: £1,160 per person
(This fee is the same whether you apply from inside or outside the UK).

2. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

This is a mandatory upfront payment that gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of your visa.

Cost: The IHS is £1,035 per person, per year of your visa. You must pay for the full duration of your visa at the time of application.
Example Calculation: If you are applying for a 3-year Skilled Worker visa, the IHS payment for you alone will be 3 x £1,035 = £3,105. If you are applying with a partner and a child, the total IHS for your family would be £3,105 x 3 = £9,315.
Health and Care Worker Visa Exemption: A major benefit of the specialist Health and Care Worker visa is a full exemption from the IHS payment, representing a significant saving.

3. The Maintenance Funds Requirement

You must prove that you have enough money to support yourself when you first arrive in the UK. This is to ensure you do not need to rely on public funds.

Required Amount: You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account.
The Critical 28-Day Rule: This money must have been in your account for at least 28 consecutive days, and the end date of this 28-day period must be within 31 days of you submitting your visa application. The balance cannot drop below £1,270 for even one day.
Dependants: Your partner and children must also meet a separate maintenance requirement.

When You Do NOT Need to Show Maintenance Funds:
You are exempt from this requirement, and do not need to provide bank statements, if either:

You have already been living in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months.
Your A-rated sponsor agrees to ‘certify your maintenance’ on your Certificate of Sponsorship. This is an official declaration from your employer that they will cover your costs up to £1,270 during your first month if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Skilled Worker Visa Costs

Q: Do I pay all the fees at once?
A: Yes. You must pay the full visa application fee and the entire Immigration Health Surcharge for the full duration of your visa when you submit your online application.

Q: Can my employer pay for my visa?
A: Yes, many employers offer sponsorship packages that include covering the visa application fees and sometimes the IHS. This is a commercial arrangement between you and your employer.

Q: Are there any other hidden costs?
A: You should also budget for potential additional costs, such as English language tests, TB screening certificates, Ecctis assessments for overseas degrees, and any fees for priority processing services if you need a faster decision.

Plan Your Finances with Confidence and Expert Advice

The financial aspect of a Skilled Worker visa is a significant undertaking. A miscalculation of the IHS or a mistake in your maintenance fund evidence can lead to refusal and the loss of your application fees. Our specialist advisors provide:

A Clear and Accurate Cost Breakdown: We calculate the exact total cost for you and your family from the outset.
Meticulous Maintenance Fund Checks: We review your bank statements to ensure they perfectly meet the strict 28-day rule.
Advice on Sponsor Certification: We can liaise with your employer to see if they can certify your maintenance, simplifying your application.

Your Complete Document Checklist for a Successful Application

A successful Skilled Worker visa application is built on a foundation of accurate and complete documentation. The Home Office has a strict list of required evidence, and a single missing document, an incorrect format, or a poorly presented piece of information can lead to significant delays or an outright refusal.

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed checklist of the documents you will need to prepare for your application. To ensure a flawless submission, our team of specialist immigration advisors offers a meticulous Document Checking Service. We review every piece of evidence against the complex immigration rules, giving you complete confidence and the best possible chance of a successful outcome.

Essential Documents for Every Skilled Worker Application

These are the core documents and information that every single applicant must provide. Getting these right is non-negotiable.

Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Reference Number:
1. This is the most critical piece of information. It is a unique reference number provided to you by your UK sponsoring employer. It is the electronic link between your application and your approved job offer.
Proof of Your Knowledge of English:
1. This could be your Secure English Language Test (SELT) certificate, your UK degree certificate, or your Ecctis confirmation for an overseas degree taught in English.
A Valid Passport or Travel Document:
1. This must be your current, valid passport or other travel ID that clearly shows your identity and nationality. It must have at least one blank page for your visa.
Key Job Details from your CoS:
1. Your exact job title and gross annual salary.
1. Your job’s 4-digit occupation code.
1. The full name of your employer and their unique Sponsor Licence number (this will be on your CoS).

Additional Documents Required Based on Your Circumstances

Most applicants will need to provide one or more of the following, depending on their specific situation. Our experts will create a personalised checklist just for you.

Evidence of Maintenance (Personal Savings):
- If your employer is not ‘certifying your maintenance’ on your CoS, you must provide bank statements showing you have held at least £1,270 for 28 consecutive days.
Proof of Relationship for Dependants:
- If your partner or children are applying with you, you must provide documents like marriage certificates and birth certificates to prove your relationship to them.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results:
- You must provide a certificate from a Home Office-approved clinic if you are applying from a country where TB screening is mandatory.
Criminal Record Certificate:
- This is a mandatory requirement if you are applying from outside the UK and your job is in certain sensitive sectors like healthcare, education, therapy, or social services. You may need to provide a certificate from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
ATAS Certificate (Academic Technology Approval Scheme):
- If your job involves research at a PhD level or higher in a sensitive subject, your employer will tell you if you need to obtain an ATAS certificate before you can apply for your visa.
Evidence for PhD ‘Tradeable Points’:
- If you are claiming ‘tradeable points’ to qualify on a lower salary based on a PhD, you must provide your UK PhD certificate or, for an overseas PhD, your unique Ecctis reference number confirming its equivalency.

A Note on Document Formatting

Translations: It is a strict requirement that any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a full, certified translation from a professional translator. The translation must include confirmation of the translator’s credentials and accuracy.

Why a Professional Document Check is Your Best Investment

The Home Office is incredibly prescriptive about the evidence it requires. A bank statement that doesn’t cover the full 28-day period, a criminal record certificate from the wrong authority, or a missing detail in an employer’s letter can all be grounds for refusal. Our expert Document Checking Service eliminates this risk.

We create a bespoke checklist tailored to your job, nationality, and family circumstances.
We meticulously review every single document you provide to ensure it meets the strict format, content, and date requirements.
We prevent common errors that lead to refusal, saving you time, money, and stress.
We give you complete peace of mind that your application is as strong as it can possibly be.

Applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa from Outside the UK: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on your UK career journey starts with a successful visa application from your home country. The entire process is managed online, from completing the detailed application form to submitting your documents and proving your identity. While convenient, this digital process involves several crucial stages where accuracy and attention to detail are paramount.

Our team of expert immigration advisors specialises in managing Skilled Worker applications from all over the world. We provide comprehensive, step-by-step support to navigate the entire online journey, ensuring your application is submitted correctly, efficiently, and with the best possible chance of a swift and successful outcome.

The Application Process: From Starting Your Form to a Final Decision

The journey to securing your UK Skilled Worker visa from overseas can be broken down into clear, manageable steps.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before you even begin the online form, you must gather all the essential documents required for your application. This includes your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), proof of English language ability, your passport, and any other supporting evidence specific to your circumstances, such as financial documents or a criminal record certificate. Our comprehensive document checking service ensures you have everything you need, perfectly prepared, from the start.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

You must complete the official application form on the GOV.UK website. This is a detailed form that will ask for information about your personal details, your sponsor, your job, your finances, and your immigration history.

Convenience and Control: A key feature of the online system is that you do not have to complete the form in a single session. You can save your application and complete it later, allowing you the flexibility to gather information and review your answers carefully.
Expert Review: Our service includes a full, meticulous review of your completed form before it is submitted, catching any potential errors or omissions that could jeopardise your application.

Step 3: Prove Your Identity

This is a critical part of the process where you officially verify your identity with the UK Home Office. The method you use will be determined by your nationality and the type of passport you hold. The online system will tell you exactly which route you must follow.

Route 1: The ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ App (The Digital Route): If you have a biometric passport, you will likely be able to use this secure smartphone app. It allows you to scan your passport’s chip and your face, submitting your identity details digitally. The main advantage is that you will not need to attend an in-person appointment, which can save you significant time and travel.
Route 2: The Visa Application Centre (VAC) Appointment (The In-Person Route): If you are not eligible to use the app, you will need to book an appointment at your nearest VAC. Here, you will have your fingerprints and a digital photograph taken (your biometric information). You will need to bring your passport to this appointment. Be prepared that your nearest VAC may be in a different city or even a neighbouring country.

Step 4: Wait for Your Decision

Once you have submitted your online form, paid the fees, and provided your biometric information, your application is under consideration.

Standard Decision Time: You can typically expect to receive a decision on your application within 3 weeks.
Potential Delays: You will be contacted if your application is complex and is likely to take longer. This could be because your documents need to be verified, you are required to attend an interview, or due to your personal circumstances (e.g., a criminal conviction).
Faster Decisions: In many countries, you can pay for a ‘Priority’ or ‘Super Priority’ service to get a much faster decision, often within a few working days. You will be told if this is available when you apply.

After You Apply: Your Decision and Next Steps

You will be notified of the outcome of your application via email. This decision email is a crucial document that will explain what you need to do next to collect your visa and prepare for your travel to the UK. If your application is successful, you will typically receive a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport, which is valid for 90 days to allow you to enter the UK.

How Our Experts Streamline Your Overseas Application

Applying from another country can feel daunting. Our specialist team removes the stress and uncertainty from the process.

Global Expertise: We have experience with applications from all over the world and understand the nuances of different visa application centres.
Seamless Process Management: We guide you through every step, from document preparation to booking your VAC appointment or using the ID check app.
Troubleshooting and Support: We are on hand to answer your questions and provide support throughout the waiting period.
Maximising Success: Our meticulous approach ensures your application is as strong as it can possibly be, from start to finish.

A Complete Guide to Bringing Your Family to the UK

Moving to the UK for your career is a significant step, and being able to bring your partner and children with you is a vital part of building your new life. The Skilled Worker Dependant visa is the dedicated route for your eligible family members to join you. However, the application process is separate and detailed, with its own financial, relationship, and procedural requirements that must be met perfectly.

Our team of specialist immigration advisors provides comprehensive support for the whole family. We manage the main Skilled Worker application and all dependant applications in parallel, ensuring they are correctly linked and meticulously prepared to prevent any issues that could delay or separate your family.

Who Can Apply as a Skilled Worker Dependant?

A dependant is defined as:

Your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
Your child under the age of 18.
Your child who is over 18, but only if they are already in the UK as your dependant and are applying to extend their visa with you.

You must provide strong evidence of your relationship, such as marriage or civil partnership certificates for a partner, and birth certificates for your children.

Critical New Restrictions for Dependant Applications

It is essential to be aware of significant recent changes to the rules that restrict dependants for certain jobs.

For Care Workers and Senior Care Workers

As of 11 March 2024, if you are newly sponsored as a Care Worker or Senior Care Worker, you cannot bring your partner or children as dependants. The only exception is for those who were already in the UK and sponsored in these roles before this date, who may retain the right to have dependants under specific transitional arrangements.

For ‘Medium Skilled’ Jobs

A future rule change is planned for 22 July 2025. After this date, workers in jobs classified as ‘medium skilled’ will also lose the right to bring dependants. Again, transitional arrangements may apply for those already in the UK before this date.

Our experts can provide definitive advice on whether your specific job role is affected by these crucial rule changes.

The Financial Requirement for Your Dependants (Maintenance)

Your family must prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves upon arrival in the UK. This is in addition to the £1,270 you need for your own application.

Required Funds:

For your partner: £285
For your first child: £315
For each additional child: £200

Example: To bring your partner and two children, they would need a total of £285 + £315 + £200 = £800.

The Critical 28-Day Rule:
This total amount must have been held in a bank account (yours or your partner’s) for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of their application.

When You Do NOT Need to Show Dependant Maintenance Funds:
You are exempt from this requirement if either:

Your family has already been living in the UK with you on a valid visa for at least 12 months.
Your A-rated sponsor agrees to certify maintenance for your family on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

The Application Process for Your Family

Your partner and children must each complete a separate online application.

Linking Applications: It is crucial to link their applications to yours. They will need your unique application number (GWF or UAN). The system may also provide a ‘family linking code’ to ensure the applications are considered together.
Identity Verification: Just like the main applicant, each dependant must prove their identity, either digitally via the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or by attending an in-person appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Fees: Each family member must pay the full visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year).
Decision Times: The processing times are usually the same as for the main applicant: around 3 weeks from outside the UK and 8 weeks from inside the UK.

Life in the UK for Your Dependant Family Members

If their applications are successful, their visas will be granted with the same expiry date as yours, and they will have significant rights in the UK.

Your Dependant Partner and Children CAN:

Work in the UK (with very few restrictions, except as a professional sportsperson).
Study in the UK.
Travel abroad and return to the UK.
Apply to settle permanently (ILR) at the same time as you, after completing 5 years of continuous residence.

They CANNOT:

Claim most benefits (public funds) or the State Pension.

Uniting Your Family with Expert Legal Support

Coordinating multiple visa applications is a complex task where a mistake on one can impact the entire family. Our dedicated team manages this process seamlessly.

We confirm eligibility for all family members, including under the new restrictive rules.
We manage the linking of all applications to ensure they are processed as a family unit.
We provide a comprehensive financial check for the entire family’s maintenance funds.
We offer end-to-end support, providing peace of mind that your family’s journey to the UK is in safe hands.

Extend Your UK Skilled Worker Visa: A Complete Guide to a Successful Application

As your current Skilled Worker visa approaches its expiry, it is crucial to apply for an extension to maintain your legal right to live and work in the UK. This is not an automatic renewal; it is a full visa application that requires you to demonstrate that you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. The rules can be particularly complex, with different salary thresholds and concessions depending on when you were first sponsored.

Our team of specialist immigration advisors provides an expert, end-to-end service for Skilled Worker visa extensions. We navigate the complex transitional rules for you, ensuring your application is accurate, timely, and successful, allowing you to seamlessly continue your career and your journey towards permanent settlement in the UK.

Core Requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa Extension

You can usually apply to extend your visa if you are in what is known as ‘continuity of employment’. This means:

You still have the same job you were sponsored for on your previous visa.
Your job remains in the same occupation code.
You are still employed by the same sponsoring employer who issued your last Certificate of Sponsorship.

Important: If you have changed your job role (even with the same employer) or have moved to a new employer, you must apply to update your visa, not extend it. This is a different application.

Navigating the Complex Salary Rules for Extensions

This is the most critical and often confusing part of an extension application. The salary you need to be paid depends on when you were first sponsored.

If Your First CoS was Assigned Before 4 April 2024

You benefit from significant transitional arrangements. You do not need to meet the new, high salary thresholds that apply to new applicants. Instead, you will be assessed against the salary rules that were in place before the recent changes. This often means you can qualify with a much lower salary, providing crucial protection for existing visa holders.

For Holders of the Old Tier 2 (General) Visa

If you still hold a Tier 2 (General) visa or first entered the UK on one, the rules are even more nuanced. Specific, lower ‘going rates’ may apply to your occupation code, and certain allowances (like London weighting) might be included in your salary calculation. Our experts specialise in these legacy rules to ensure you benefit from every available concession.

Our specialist advisors will conduct a detailed assessment of your sponsorship history to determine the exact salary requirements that apply to your specific case, ensuring your application is 100% compliant.

The Application Process: How and When to Apply

When to Apply: You must apply before your current visa expires. It is advisable to start the process at least 1-2 months in advance to allow your employer time to assign a new Certificate of Sponsorship and for you to prepare your application.
How to Apply: You must apply online from within the UK. You will either verify your identity digitally using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or in person at a UKVCAS service point for a biometric appointment.
Decision Timeline: A standard decision on an extension application usually takes 8 weeks. In most cases, you can pay for a faster Priority or Super Priority service to get a decision more quickly.

Crucial Warning: You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man while your extension application is being processed. If you do, your application will be automatically withdrawn.

Don’t Forget Your Family: Extending Dependant Visas

A common and critical mistake is forgetting that your family’s visas are not automatically extended when you extend yours.

Separate Applications: Your partner and children must submit their own separate dependant visa extension applications.
Timing: They can apply at the same time as you, or at any point before their own visas expire. It is usually most efficient to apply as a family unit.
Eligibility: You must ensure your family members still meet the dependant eligibility rules, especially in light of recent restrictions for certain job sectors.

Why Specialist Guidance for Your Extension is Essential

While an extension may seem more straightforward than a first-time application, the complex, layered nature of the salary rules means there is still significant room for error. A refusal can jeopardise your job and your life in the UK. Our expert service ensures this doesn’t happen.

We conduct a precise salary calculation based on your specific visa history, ensuring you are assessed against the correct, often more favourable, rules.
We liaise with your employer to ensure the new Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned correctly for an extension application.
We manage the entire family’s applications in parallel, ensuring no one’s status is overlooked.
We provide a seamless, stress-free process, allowing you to continue your work with complete peace of mind.

Skilled Worker Visa: A Guide to the Transitional Salary Rules (For Pre-April 2024 Applicants)

On 4 April 2024, the salary requirements for the UK Skilled Worker visa increased significantly. However, to protect those already on this immigration path, the Home Office has introduced crucial transitional arrangements. If you were first sponsored for your Skilled Worker or Tier 2 (General) visa before this date, you benefit from a much lower and more favourable set of salary rules when you come to extend your visa or update it for a new job.

Understanding and correctly applying these transitional rules is essential for a successful application. Misinterpreting which salary threshold applies to you is a major risk. Our team of specialist immigration advisors are experts in these nuanced transitional arrangements. We provide a meticulous assessment of your visa history to ensure you benefit from these lower salary requirements, safeguarding your continued stay in the UK.

Are You Eligible for the Transitional Salary Rules?

You are eligible for these more favourable salary requirements if you meet both of the following conditions:

Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for your first Skilled Worker or Tier 2 (General) visa was assigned to you before 4 April 2024.
You have continuously held a Skilled Worker visa since that date (without switching to a different visa category in between).

If you meet these conditions, you can benefit from these transitional rules for any extension or ‘update’ application you make before 4 April 2030.

The Lower Salary Requirement Explained

If you are eligible for the transitional arrangements, you do not need to meet the new, high general threshold of £41,700. Instead, your salary must be equal to or higher than the highest of the following two figures:

A general salary threshold of £31,300 per year.
The specific ‘lower going rate’ for your particular occupation code.

How it Works:
Every occupation code has its own ‘lower going rate’ which is published in the official Home Office tables. You must check this specific rate. For example, if the lower going rate for your job is £32,500, then your salary must be at least £32,500 (as this is higher than the £31,300 general threshold).

It’s important to note that these going rates are updated periodically, and your salary will need to meet the updated rate each time you apply for a new visa.

Qualifying with an Even Lower Salary: Tradeable Points under Transitional Rules

Even under these transitional rules, there are further concessions available through the ‘tradeable points’ system. If your salary is at least £25,000 per year, you may still be able to qualify if you meet specific criteria.

If Your Job is on the Immigration Salary List (ISL)

If your occupation code is listed on the ISL, you must be paid at least £25,000 per year or your job’s full (not lower) going rate, whichever is higher.

If You are a ‘New Entrant’ (e.g., Under 26 or a Recent Graduate)

You can be paid 70% of the ‘lower going rate’ for your job, as long as your salary is at least £25,000 per year.

Important Limitation: Your total stay in the UK on a Skilled Worker, Tier 2, and/or Graduate visa cannot exceed 4 years if you use this concession.

If You Have a Relevant PhD Qualification

STEM PhD: You can be paid 80% of the ‘lower going rate’ if your salary is at least £25,000 per year.
Non-STEM PhD: You can be paid 90% of the ‘lower going rate’ if your salary is at least £28,200 per year.

If You Have a Postdoctoral Position

In certain scientific and higher education roles, you can be paid 70% of the ‘lower going rate’ if your salary is at least £25,000 per year.

Important Limitation: Your total stay is limited to 4 years if you use this concession.

Why Expert Guidance on Transitional Rules is Crucial

The UK’s immigration system is now a complex, multi-layered framework with different rules for different cohorts of applicants. Applying the wrong salary threshold to your application is a simple but fatal error. Our specialist immigration advisors remove all guesswork and risk.

We conduct a full visa history check to confirm your eligibility for the transitional arrangements.
We perform a precise salary calculation using the correct ‘lower going rate’ tables that apply to your specific case.
We assess your eligibility for all available ‘tradeable points’ concessions to ensure you can qualify with the lowest possible salary.
We liaise with your employer to ensure your new Certificate of Sponsorship correctly reflects your eligibility under these more favourable rules.

Update Your UK Skilled Worker Visa: A Guide to Changing Your Job or Employer

Changing your job or moving to a new employer is a positive step in your UK career, but as a Skilled Worker visa holder, this change requires a formal ‘update’ to your immigration status. This is not a simple administrative change; it is a full new visa application that must be approved before you can legally start your new role.

Navigating this ‘change of employment’ application is crucial to remaining compliant with UK immigration law. Our team of specialist immigration advisors provides an expert, end-to-end service for visa update applications. We ensure your new job meets all the necessary requirements and manage the application process seamlessly, allowing you to transition into your new role with confidence and complete legal standing.

When Do You Need to Apply to Update Your Visa?

You are legally required to submit a new application to update your visa if you are making a significant change to your sponsored employment. This includes if:

You are moving to a new employer.
Your job role is changing so significantly that it now falls under a different 4-digit occupation code, even if you are staying with your current employer.
You are moving from a job that was on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) to a new role that is not on the list.

You do not need to apply if you are promoted or change your job title within the same occupation code with your current employer.

The Application Process: A Full New Visa Application

It is essential to understand that an ‘update’ is not a minor amendment. It is a completely new Skilled Worker visa application.

New Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your new employer (or your current employer for a new role) must assign you a brand new CoS.
Meet All Eligibility Requirements: Your new job must meet all the Skilled Worker eligibility rules at the time of your new application. This includes the skill level, the occupation code, and, crucially, the minimum salary requirements.
Favourable Salary Rules May Apply: If you were first sponsored before 4 April 2024, you will likely benefit from the lower, transitional salary rules, which can make it easier to qualify. Our experts will assess your history to confirm this.
Supporting Documents: If you have been in the UK for more than one year, you are usually exempt from providing financial maintenance and English language evidence again. However, all other aspects of the application must be proven.

Taking on a Second Job: The ‘Supplementary Employment’ Rules

The Skilled Worker visa allows for some flexibility in taking on additional work, but the rules are strict.

When you do NOT need to apply: You can take on a second job without updating your visa if it is either in the same occupation code and at the same level as your main sponsored job, or if it is on the Immigration Salary List, AND you will be working no more than 20 hours per week in this second job.
When you MUST apply: If you plan to work more than 20 hours per week in a second job, you must apply to update your visa. Your second employer will need to become your sponsor and assign you a CoS, and the second job must also meet all the Skilled Worker eligibility requirements. Your new visa will then grant you permission to work in both roles.

Application Timing and Key Rules to Remember

When to Apply: You can submit your update application up to 3 months before the start date of your new job.
Do Not Start Your New Job Early: You must wait until you have received a decision and your new visa has been granted before you can legally start working in your new role.
Continuing Your Current Job: You can continue working in your current sponsored role while your new application is being considered.
Decision Timeline: A standard decision on an update application usually takes 8 weeks. Priority services are often available for a faster outcome.

Crucial Warning: You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man while your application is being processed. Doing so will automatically withdraw your application.

Why Specialist Guidance is Essential for a Change of Employment

A change of employment application carries the same risks as a first-time application. A refusal can leave you without a job and without a valid visa. Our expert immigration service ensures a smooth and successful transition.

We conduct a full eligibility check on your new job offer against the current, complex salary and occupation code rules.
We liaise with your new employer to ensure the new Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned correctly.
We manage the entire online application process, ensuring accuracy and preventing common errors.
We provide strategic advice on timing, helping you manage your notice period and new start date effectively.

Switch to a UK Skilled Worker Visa: Your In-Country Application Guide

If you are already in the UK on a different long-term visa, you may be eligible to ‘switch’ your immigration status to the Skilled Worker route without having to leave the country. This is a popular pathway for students, graduates, and those on other work visas who have secured a sponsored job offer. However, switching is a full new visa application with strict eligibility rules and a list of visa categories from which you are not permitted to switch.

Our team of expert immigration advisors specialises in in-country switching applications. We provide comprehensive guidance to ensure you are eligible to switch, that your new sponsored job meets all the requirements, and that your application is submitted correctly and on time, allowing for a seamless transition into your new UK career.

Who is Eligible to Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?

To successfully switch to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK, you must:

Be in the UK on a visa that permits you to switch.
Have a confirmed job offer and a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office-approved employer.
Meet all the standard eligibility requirements for the Skilled Worker route, including the job skill level, salary, and English language proficiency.

Specific Rules for Students Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa

If you are currently in the UK on a Student visa, you can switch, but you must meet an additional condition. You must have either:

Completed the course for which you were sponsored.
Been studying a PhD for at least 24 months.
Alternatively, your sponsored job’s start date must be after your course has officially finished. This rule prevents students from leaving their studies to take up full-time work prematurely.

Critical Restrictions: Who CANNOT Switch?

It is vital to understand that you cannot switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you are in the UK on a temporary or short-term basis. You are prohibited from switching if you currently hold:

A Visit Visa (Standard Visitor Visa)
A Short-term Student Visa
A Parent of a Child Student Visa
A Seasonal Worker Visa
A Domestic Worker in a Private Household Visa
Immigration Bail
Any form of ‘leave outside the immigration rules’ (e.g., on compassionate grounds)

If you are in one of these categories, you must leave the UK and apply for your Skilled Worker visa from your home country.

The Application Process: How to Switch Your Visa In-Country

When to Apply: You must submit your online application before your current visa expires.
How to Apply: The entire application is completed online. You will need to verify your identity either digitally using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or by attending an in-person appointment at a UKVCAS service point to provide your biometric information.
Fees and Costs: You will need to pay the full visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for each year of your new visa.
Decision Timeline: A standard decision on a switching application usually takes 8 weeks. You can often pay an additional fee for a faster Priority or Super Priority service.

Crucial Warning: Once you have submitted your application, you must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until you receive a decision. If you do, your application will be automatically withdrawn.

Switching with Your Family

Your family’s visas are not automatically switched when yours is. Your partner and children must submit their own separate dependant applications. This can be done at the same time as your application or at any point before their current visas expire.

Important Dependant Restrictions: Be aware of the new rules that prevent dependants from joining or switching with Care Workers and, in the future, those in ‘medium skilled’ jobs.

Why Expert Guidance is Essential for a Switching Application

Switching visa categories is a major legal step. A refusal can not only cost you your job offer but can also leave you with no valid visa to remain in the UK. Our specialist immigration service ensures a smooth and successful transition.

We conduct a full eligibility check to confirm that your current visa category is permitted to switch.
We provide a comprehensive review of your new job offer to ensure it meets all the complex salary and occupation code requirements.
We manage the entire online application process, preventing common errors and ensuring a timely submission before your current visa expires.
We coordinate your family’s applications, ensuring your loved ones can remain with you in the UK.

Supplementary Work on a UK Skilled Worker Visa: A Guide to Taking on a Second Job

As a Skilled Worker visa holder, your primary focus is the sponsored job that forms the basis of your immigration status. However, the UK immigration rules provide a degree of flexibility, allowing you to take on additional work under specific conditions. This is known as ‘supplementary employment’. Understanding these rules is crucial to ensure you remain compliant with your visa conditions and do not inadvertently break the law.

This guide provides a clear and detailed explanation of the supplementary work rules. Our team of specialist immigration advisors offers expert advice on this topic, helping you understand what additional work you are permitted to do and what steps you must take if you plan to take on a more substantial second role.

Understanding the Basics: Overtime and Your Sponsored Job

First, it is important to distinguish between overtime and a second job.

Overtime: You can work as many hours of paid overtime as you and your sponsoring employer agree upon in the job for which you are sponsored. There is no limit on overtime, and you do not need to inform the Home Office or update your visa.

The Rules for a Second Job: The 20-Hour Supplementary Work Rule

You can take on a second job, or even do work for your own business, for up to 20 hours per week in addition to your main sponsored job, provided you meet a strict set of criteria.

To be eligible for supplementary employment, you must:

Continue working in your sponsored job. The supplementary work must be in addition to, and not a replacement for, your primary employment.
Work no more than 20 hours per week in the second job.
Ensure the second job meets a specific skill-level requirement.

Skill Level Requirement for the Second Job

Your additional work must be in an occupation that is either:

On the Immigration Salary List (ISL) (previously the Shortage Occupation List).
In the same occupation code and at the same professional level as your main sponsored job.
An eligible occupation code that is classified as a ‘higher skilled’ job.

Important Restriction: You generally cannot take on supplementary work in a role that is classified as ‘medium skilled’. An exception exists for those who were first sponsored before 22 July 2025, under transitional arrangements.

What Happens if You Want to Work More Than 20 Hours in a Second Job?

If you have an offer for a second job that requires you to work more than 20 hours per week, you cannot treat this as simple supplementary employment. This situation requires a formal application to the Home Office.

You Must Update Your Visa: You are required to submit an application to update your Skilled Worker visa.
A Second Sponsor is Required: Your second employer must hold a sponsor licence and assign you their own Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the second job.
The Second Job Must Qualify: The second job itself must meet all the standard Skilled Worker eligibility requirements, including the skill level and salary threshold.
The Application Process: You will need to submit a full new visa application, including a letter explaining that you are seeking permission to add a second job to your existing visa.
Successful Outcome: If your application is approved, you will be issued a new visa that explicitly gives you permission to work for both of your sponsoring employers.

Unpaid Voluntary Work

The Skilled Worker visa also permits you to undertake unpaid voluntary work. This is distinct from employment and has its own rules. The voluntary work must be for a registered charity, a voluntary organisation, or a statutory body (like a government-appointed heritage organisation), and you can only be reimbursed for reasonable expenses, such as travel costs.

Why Expert Advice on Supplementary Work is Crucial

Working outside the terms of your visa is a serious breach of UK immigration law and can have severe consequences, including the cancellation of your visa and a ban on returning to the UK. Before you take on any additional work, it is vital to be certain that you are compliant.

Our expert immigration advisors will:

Assess your proposed second job against the supplementary employment rules.
Confirm if the role’s skill level and occupation code are compliant for up to 20 hours of work per week.
Advise you on the correct procedure if your second job requires a full visa update application.
Provide complete peace of mind that you are working in full compliance with your visa conditions.

Your UK career is a major step. Secure it with the best possible support. Contact our specialist Skilled Worker visa team today for a comprehensive consultation.

About the Author:
Farzad Ghods is an international lawyer specialising in UK immigration law. He is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Immigration Advisors Authority (IAA) in the United Kingdom, and is also a member of the Iran Bar Association. He brings over fourteen years of professional legal experience to his practice.

UK Skilled Worker Visa: Your Complete Expert Guide to Working in the United Kingdom