Main Requirements
To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, the applicant normally needs a job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence. The job must be eligible and the applicant must meet the salary, English language, maintenance and suitability requirements.
- The employer must be licensed to sponsor Skilled Workers.
- The role must have an eligible occupation code.
- The Certificate of Sponsorship must match the job being offered.
- The salary must meet the relevant threshold for the job and applicant.
Certificate of Sponsorship
A Certificate of Sponsorship, often called a CoS, is an electronic sponsorship record. It is not a paper certificate. The worker uses the CoS reference number in the visa application.
If the worker is applying from outside the UK, a defined CoS may be needed. If applying from inside the UK, the sponsor may use an undefined CoS from its allocation.
Salary Rules
The Skilled Worker salary rules can be technical because the correct salary may depend on the route, occupation code, going rate, hours, age, qualification level and whether the applicant is a new entrant. Employers should not rely on the job title alone.
Documents to Prepare
- Passport and travel documents
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Evidence of English language ability unless exempt
- Tuberculosis test certificate if required
- Evidence of funds if the sponsor does not certify maintenance
- Criminal record certificate for certain roles
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Switch to Skilled Worker Inside the UK?
Many applicants can switch inside the UK, but not from every route. Visitors and some short-term visa holders usually cannot switch.
Can My Family Join Me?
Dependants may be able to apply if the route and circumstances allow it. Some care worker roles have additional dependant restrictions.
What if My Employer Does Not Have a Sponsor Licence?
The employer usually needs to obtain a sponsor licence before it can sponsor a Skilled Worker.
Need Skilled Worker Visa Advice in Derby?
Tell us the job title, salary, employer name, sponsor licence position and where the applicant is applying from.