This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. Confirm your visa requirements via Our UK Visa Guidance.
To work in the UK, most applicants use the Skilled Worker visa route (commonly referred to as a “work permit”). This article explains the key eligibility rules, documents, application steps, fees and processing options as applied under current Home Office policy (October 2025). For route-specific steps, see our guide: How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.
Who Can Apply
Core Requirements
- Job offer & sponsor licence: You must have an offer from a UK employer holding a valid sponsor licence and an assigned Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Eligible occupation: The role must be on the Skilled Worker eligible occupation list and meet the required skill level.
- Salary threshold: Your pay must meet the applicable general threshold and the job’s going rate, subject to limited exceptions set out in the Immigration Rules.
- English language: You must meet the minimum English requirement (usually CEFR B1) unless exempt.
- Financial maintenance: Either show funds or have your sponsor certify maintenance (if eligible). See UK Visa Supporting Documents – Digital Upload Guide.
Documents You Will Commonly Need
- Passport or travel document
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Evidence of English language (where required)
- Financial documents if not certified by sponsor
- TB test certificate and police certificate (if applicable)
For assembling and submitting evidence, read: Supporting Documents: Digital Upload.
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility with your employer and job code.
- Receive a valid CoS from your licensed sponsor.
- Complete the online application and pay fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). See UK Visa Fees 2025.
- Book biometrics and submit supporting documents via the UKVCAS/visa centre portal.
- Await a decision. You may be able to use priority services if available in your location.
Step
What It Involves
Where to Learn More
1. Sponsor issues CoS
Employer assigns a valid Certificate of Sponsorship with role, salary and SOC code.
What Is a UK Work Permit?
2. Apply & pay fees
Complete online form and pay visa fee + IHS.
UK Visa Fees 2025
3. Biometrics & docs
Attend your appointment or use app (where eligible) and upload evidence.
Supporting Docs Upload Guide
4. Processing
Standard, priority or super priority (if offered).
Priority Service Availability 2025
Processing Times & Priority Options
Processing depends on where you apply and the service you choose. For current turnarounds and upgrade routes, see UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025. Application centres and availability vary by country—check UK Visa Application Processing Centres 2025.
Conditions of Stay
What You Can Do
- Work for the sponsoring employer in the role stated on your CoS
- Take limited supplementary work (subject to rules)
- Bring eligible dependants
- Extend your visa and, after qualifying residence, apply for settlement
What You Cannot Do
- Access most public funds
- Change employer or role without a new CoS and updated permission
Extensions, Switching & Settlement
You can extend your Skilled Worker visa or switch into the route if you meet the criteria. If your long-term plan is settlement, ensure continuity of lawful residence and compliance with your sponsor duties. For broader guidance, see How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa.
If Your Application Is Refused
Refusals typically relate to eligibility, salary thresholds, incorrect SOC codes or missing documents. Review the refusal notice carefully and consider your options (administrative review or a fresh application). See: UK Visa Refusals.
Related Guidance
- How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
- What Is a UK Work Permit?
- Can I Get a Direct Work Permit for the UK?
FAQs
Question
Answer
Do I need a sponsor to get a UK work permit?
Yes. For the Skilled Worker route you must have a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence who issues a Certificate of Sponsorship.
How much does it cost?
Visa fees vary by circumstances, and the Immigration Health Surcharge also applies. See UK Visa Fees 2025.
How long does it take?
Timelines depend on location and service level. Priority services may be available. See Priority Service Availability 2025.
Can I switch employers once in the UK?
You must apply for new permission with a new CoS before changing your sponsor or role.
What documents should I prepare?
Passport, CoS details, English evidence (if required), maintenance funds (if not certified), and any additional documents listed in your online application. See the digital upload guide.
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025