🌍 Introduction
If you’re a non-UK citizen hoping to work legally in the United Kingdom, the Skilled Worker visa is your primary gateway. Replacing the old Tier 2 visa, it allows foreign professionals to work for UK employers in approved job roles. Whether you’re in healthcare, engineering, IT, or education — the Skilled Worker route could open doors to a promising career in the UK.
In this article, we provide a step-by-step guide to applying for the Skilled Worker visa, from finding a sponsor to submitting your application.
✅ Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before you start, make sure you meet the basic requirements:
- You have a confirmed job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor
- The job is on the Skilled Occupation List
- You’ll be paid the minimum salary for your job (usually £26,200/year or £10.75/hour)
- You meet the English language requirement
🔍 Step 2: Search for Sponsored Jobs
Only companies with a valid sponsorship license can legally employ international workers. Use the following strategies to find such jobs:
- Use the UK Government’s official sponsor list
- Apply on job boards like Indeed UK, TotalJobs, NHS Jobs, or LinkedIn
- Look for job posts that clearly mention: “Visa sponsorship available”
Tip: Healthcare, social care, IT, and engineering roles are among the easiest paths for visa sponsorship.
📄 Step 3: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once you’re offered a job, your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is a unique reference number confirming your job details and visa eligibility.
There are two types of CoS:
- Defined CoS: For applicants applying from outside the UK
- Undefined CoS: For applicants already in the UK (e.g., switching visas)
Your employer will guide you on which one applies to you.
🧾 Step 4: Prepare Your Application Documents
To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you will need:
- A valid passport
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS for UKVI or equivalent)
- Job details, including salary and occupation code
- Proof of personal savings (£1,270 minimum unless your employer is covering costs)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if you’re from a listed country)
Optional documents may include educational certificates or criminal record checks, depending on the job role.
💻 Step 5: Apply Online
Go to the UK Government website and start your Skilled Worker visa application. You’ll need to:
- Complete the form with accurate job and employer details
- Upload your documents
- Pay the visa fee (typically £610 to £1,408 based on job duration and type)
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) — £1,035/year for access to NHS
🛂 Step 6: Attend a Biometrics Appointment
After applying, you’ll book an appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
You’ll provide:
- Fingerprints
- Photograph
- Supporting documents (originals if required)
In some countries, you can use the UK Immigration ID Check app to scan your documents and avoid visiting the VAC.
⏳ Step 7: Wait for the Decision
- Standard processing time: 3–8 weeks
- You’ll receive an email or letter confirming the visa decision
- If approved, you’ll be issued a vignette sticker in your passport valid for 30 days to enter the UK
After arrival, you’ll collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a designated Post Office within 10 days.
🏠 What to Do After You Arrive in the UK
- Collect your BRP
- Register with a GP (doctor) and get access to NHS services
- Apply for a National Insurance (NI) number (if not already assigned)
- Open a bank account
- Find housing based on your budget and proximity to work
🕒 How Long Can You Stay?
The Skilled Worker visa is usually granted for up to 5 years, after which you can apply for:
- Visa extension
- Permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR) after 5 years
- British citizenship after further eligibility
🔐 Tips for Success
- Apply early — competition is high
- Ensure your documents are clean and translated (if needed)
- Avoid scams — only deal with licensed recruiters and employers
- Use professional CV formatting and tailor your applications
- Save enough funds for your visa and travel expenses
📌 Conclusion
The UK Skilled Worker visa is a clear and reliable path to building a future in the UK. With proper planning and the right job offer, you can launch your career in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. Start now — find a sponsor, prepare your documents, and open the door to the UK.
