The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows qualified professionals to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years. To apply, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship licence and meet the points-based immigration criteria set by the Home Office. This guide outlines each step of the Skilled Worker Visa application process, eligibility requirements, and current 2025 processing times.
Eligibility and Core Requirements
Before you apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, ensure that you meet the minimum eligibility requirements under the UK’s points-based immigration system. Applicants must achieve at least 70 points across mandatory and tradeable criteria.
- Job offer from a licensed sponsor: Your employer must be approved by the Home Office and issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Eligible occupation code: Your job must appear on the list of approved occupations for the Skilled Worker route.
- Minimum salary requirement: You must earn at least the general salary threshold of £38,700 or the “going rate” for your specific job role, whichever is higher.
- English language ability: You must demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR level B1 or above.
- Financial maintenance: You must show sufficient funds (typically £1,270) to support yourself unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance.
For full details on eligibility, see UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Criteria.
Documents You Will Need
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Valid passport or travel document
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate)
- Proof of financial support, if required
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable
Supporting documents should be uploaded digitally using the Home Office’s secure portal. For detailed steps, read Supporting Documents – Digital Upload Guide.
How to Apply
- Confirm sponsorship: Verify that your employer has a valid sponsor licence and has issued your CoS.
- Complete the online application: Fill out the Skilled Worker Visa form on the Home Office website and pay the relevant fees.
- Pay the healthcare surcharge: The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) must be paid when you apply.
- Book biometrics: Attend an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photographs.
- Submit supporting evidence: Upload all required documents digitally or in person, depending on your location.
Applicants can check their nearest visa centre in the UK Visa Application Processing Centres 2025 list.
Visa Fees and Processing Times
As of October 2025, the Home Office application fees are as follows:
- Up to 3 years (outside the UK): £719 per applicant
- More than 3 years (outside the UK): £1,420 per applicant
- Up to 3 years (inside the UK): £827 per applicant
- More than 3 years (inside the UK): £1,500 per applicant
Processing times depend on where and how you apply:
- Standard processing: 3 weeks (outside the UK), 8 weeks (inside the UK)
- Priority service: 5 working days
- Super priority service: 24 hours
For information on expedited applications, visit UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025.
After Your Visa is Granted
If your application is successful, you’ll receive a digital immigration status confirming your right to live and work in the UK. Your Skilled Worker Visa will typically be valid for up to 5 years. You can extend it or apply for indefinite leave to remain after meeting residency and employment requirements.
For information on extensions, see How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa.
If Your Application is Refused
If your visa is refused, the refusal notice will explain why and outline whether you can request an administrative review. Common reasons include insufficient evidence, incorrect salary levels, or incomplete documentation. For further help, see UK Visa Refusals.
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025