How Do I Accumulate 70 Points As A Skilled Worker Under The Points-based System In The UK?

In order to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa under the UK’s points-based system, the applicant must score 70 points in specific categories.

A Skilled Worker visa allows successful applicants to undertake an eligible job in the UK with an approved employer who holds a sponsor licence. Applicants must score 50 points in mandatory categories, and 20 points in so-called tradeable categories.

The mandatory categories comprise:

• Having a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by a licensed sponsor (20 points)
• Having been offered a job at the appropriate skill level, which is A-level equivalent (20 points)
• Being able to prove English language ability which meets level B1 (10 points)

The tradeable categories comprise:

• Having the minimum salary required for the job as stated by the UK authorities (20 points).
• Having slightly less than the minimum salary required for the job but having a relevant PhD qualification (20 points).
• Having slightly less than the minimum salary required for the job but having a relevant STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) PhD qualification (20 points).
• Having slightly less than the minimum salary required for the job but having a job which falls into a category on the UK’s shortage occupation list (20 points).
• Having slightly less than the minimum salary required for the job but being considered a so-called new entrant to the UK labour market (20 points).
• Having slightly less than the minimum salary required for the job but working in a relevant health or education occupation (20 points)

For each of the above categories the salary will have to be assessed according to specific parameters.

The Skilled Worker visa can be issued for up to 5 years and can be extended indefinitely as long as the applicant meets the eligibility requirements at the time of extending. It is also possible for the visa holder to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK after 5 years, provided he qualifies. Family members (partners and children under the age of 18) can accompany the main visa holder.

How Gherson Can Help

At Gherson we have extensive experience in guiding employers through the application process for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence and the subsequent visas. We would be delighted to discuss with you how we can assist your organisation in attracting high calibre employees from all over the world.

If you would like to discuss this subject further, or have questions regarding any other UK visa category please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, 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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