Complex Skilled Worker visa applications: why delays are growing

 Autumn immigration strategy series

Complex Skilled Worker visa applications: why delays are growing

In recent months, Skilled Worker visa applications have been facing increasingly longer processing times. These delays can cause significant disruption to both employers and applicants, particularly when cases are deemed “complex”. But why is this happening, and what steps can be taken to minimise the impact?

The UK Skilled Worker visa allows employers to hire foreign nationals for jobs that meet certain skill and salary thresholds. While the system was designed to attract global talent to address workforce shortages, it has become increasingly clear that navigating the visa process is not an easy task, especially for those whose circumstances are complex or unusual.

Although many applications are processed without difficulty, others are flagged for additional scrutiny. Such cases can face delays due to concerns about salary thresholds, working hours or the genuine vacancy requirement. Understanding the reasons behind these delays is key for both employers and applicants.

Why are delays on the rise?

1. Increased scrutiny of salary and job requirements

One of the most common reasons for delays is confusion or discrepancies around salary thresholds and the nature of the job itself. The Home Office is increasingly diligent in reviewing whether the role in question genuinely meets the requirements for a Skilled Worker visa.

For example, workers with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) assigned before 4 April 2024 must meet a minimum salary requirement of £31,300 per year (£16.05 per hour) or the going rate for their role, whichever is higher, when extending their visas. If the offered salary or the corresponding working hours do not align with the expected market level for the specific role, the Home Office may request further documentation, which can prolong the process.

Additionally, job descriptions must align with the information provided by the employer and be correctly classified using the CASCOT occupation coding tool. Any inconsistencies will require further verification resulting in longer processing times.

2. Rising application volumes

Following the recent rule changes in July 2025, a significant increase in the salary thresholds and the skill level for most sponsored roles has already prompted many applicants to apply sooner than planned. In addition, speculation about extending the ILR qualifying period from five to ten years has created unprecedented uncertainty, driving even more applicants to submit early. This surge in applications is placing significant pressure on the system and is a key factor behind the longer processing times.

3. Complexity of applications

Some applications are inherently more complex than others. For example, if an employer is hiring workers from non-EU countries, there are often additional checks regarding the authenticity of the employer’s sponsorship licence or the applicant’s qualifications. These cases can involve in-depth reviews, which can delay the decision-making process.

Case study: employer facing staffing delays

To illustrate the impact of these delays, let us take the example of a medium-sized care provider that applied for multiple Skilled Worker visas for its new international hires.

Several of these applications were marked as “complex” due to questions about salary thresholds and the working hours stipulated in the contracts. These details required extensive clarification from the employer, and, as a result, the applications took several months to resolve.

During this time, the care provider found itself short-staffed, unable to fulfil existing contracts or take on new clients, which significantly affected its operations. This delay not only caused financial strain but also undermined the quality of care provided to clients, as fewer staff members were available to meet the growing demand.

How can employers minimise the impact of delays?

While delays are sometimes unavoidable, employers can still take steps to mitigate their impact.

1. Ensure accurate and complete documentation

The most effective way to avoid delays is to ensure that applications are complete and accurate from the start. This includes ensuring the offered salary aligns with the job description, verifying working hours and double-checking that all required documents are provided.

2. Early application submission

Given that delays are common, it is advisable to submit Skilled Worker visa applications as early as possible. Employers should factor in potential delays when planning staffing needs, allowing ample time for processing.

3. Seek legal advice early on

Given the complexity and ever-changing nature of our immigration law, consulting an immigration lawyer early in the process can help ensure that all aspects of the application are aligned with the latest regulations. Legal professionals can also help clarify any ambiguities regarding salary or working hours, reducing the likelihood of the case being flagged as complex.

4. Communication with UKVI

Employers who are experiencing lengthy delays may consider reaching out to UKVI for updates on the progress of their applications. Communication can sometimes help move the process along and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly. Our team at Gherson are well-equipped to assist with this.

Conclusion

The rise in delays for Skilled Worker visa applications, particularly in complex cases, is due to a combination of factors, including stricter immigration rules and an increase in application volumes. Employers and applicants need to be prepared for longer processing times and take proactive steps to ensure their applications are complete and accurate.

By planning ahead and seeking legal guidance where necessary, employers can minimise the impact of these delays and avoid operational disruptions that could affect their business.

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How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on all UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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