If you are rejected for a Skilled Worker Visa, you will receive a letter from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) explaining the reasons for the refusal. You will also have the right to appeal the decision.
Consequences of a Standard Visitor Visa Refusal
The consequences of a UK visa refusal can vary depending on the reason for the refusal and the type of visa that was applied for. However, some common consequences include:
- Inability to travel to the UK: The most obvious consequence of a UK visa refusal is that you will not be able to travel to the UK. This can be a major disappointment if you have already made travel arrangements or purchased tickets.
- Financial losses: Applying for a UK visa can be expensive, and you may lose the application fee and other costs associated with travel, such as flights and accommodation.
- Damage to your reputation: A UK visa refusal can make it more difficult to get a visa to other countries in the future, as it may be seen as a negative reflection on your character or reliability.
- Impact on career: A UK visa refusal can delay or even prevent you from career opportunities in the UK.
Common reasons for rejection
There are a number of reasons why your Skilled Worker Visa application may be denied, including:
- You do not meet the eligibility requirements, such as the salary requirement or the English language requirement.
- Your job offer is not from a licensed sponsor.
- You have a criminal record.
- You have provided false or misleading information on your application.
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) does not meet the Home Office requirements (e.g. the type of CoS is wrong, the Cos is expired, the minimum salary is not met, the minimum skill level is not met, etc.).
- You failed to provide any other mandatory evidence or the evidence you submitted was already expired (e.g. TB test, criminal record certificate(s), English language evidence).
- Unpaid NHS debt of £500 or more.
- Your UK employer’s sponsor licence is revoked.
If you are unsure why your Skilled Worker Visa application was denied, you should contact an immigration lawyer for advice.
Appealing the decision
If you decide to appeal the decision, you will need to submit an appeal form to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). The appeal will be heard by a judge, who will decide whether or not to overturn the UKVI’s decision.
If your appeal is successful, you will be granted a Skilled Worker Visa. If your appeal is unsuccessful, you will need to leave the UK/will be denied entry to the UK.
It is important to note that appealing the decision of the UKVI can be a complex and time-consuming process. If you are considering appealing, you should seek legal advice from an immigration lawyer.
People also asked
Can I reapply for Skilled Worker Visa if my application is rejected?
There is no time restriction for reapplying for a UK visa following a refusal. Before reapplying, we advise you to address the reasons for the rejection and submit a more compelling application. This will increase your chances of success and could save you time and money.
How often do Skilled Worker Visas get rejected?
It is not uncommon to have any type of UK visa refused. There is an overall refusal rate of 15%.
Can I get a Skilled Worker Visa without a job offer?
You must have a job offer from an approved UK employer before you apply for a Skilled Worker visa. Approved employers are also known as sponsors, because they are sponsoring you to come to or stay in the UK.
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: 6 January 2026.