Your guide to the UK Skilled Worker visa: key FAQs

The UK Skilled Worker visa allows foreign professionals with specific skills to live and work in the UK. It’s one of the most common routes for work-related immigration, but the process can seem overwhelming. To simplify things, here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Skilled Worker visa.

1. What is the Skilled Worker visa?

The Skilled Worker visa allows individuals to come to or remain in the UK to work in jobs requiring specific skills. To apply, you must have a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor your visa.

2. Who is eligible for a Skilled Worker visa?

To qualify for this visa, you must:

• Have a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
• Be offered a role that appears on the list of eligible occupations and requires skills at A-level or higher.
• Meet a salary threshold, typically at least £38,700 per year or the going rate for your job.
• Prove your English proficiency.
• Demonstrate that you can financially support yourself when you arrive in the UK.

3. How long can I stay in the UK?

You can stay in the UK throughout the duration of your visa. The Skilled Worker visa can be granted for an initial period of 5 years; however, this can be extended indefinitely.  After 5 years under the Skilled Worker visa route, and provided you meet all the relevant criteria, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, which allows you to stay permanently.

4. Can I bring my family?

Yes, you can bring your spouse, partner and children under 18 as dependants. They can also work or study while in the UK. However, you must provide evidence that you can financially support them.

5. Can I change jobs while on a Skilled Worker visa?

You can change jobs but you will need a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your new employer and apply for a new visa application.

6. What is the Immigration Salary List?

The Immigration Salary List (ISL) has replaced the Shortage Occupation List with effect from 04 April 2024. This is an official list of skilled jobs for which there is a shortage of suitable labour. If your job appears on this list, you may pay a lower visa fee and may not need to meet the full salary threshold. Jobs in healthcare, engineering and IT are commonly featured on this list.

7. Do I need a health test?

In most cases, a medical test is not required. However, if you are coming from a country with high rates of tuberculosis (TB), you will need to provide a valid TB test certificate.

 8. What if my application is refused?

If your visa application is refused, you will be informed of the reasons. Common reasons for refusal include failing to meet the required skills and salary thresholds, not providing a TB test certificate when required or not demonstrating that you meet the English language proficiency requirement.

You may have the option to challenge the Home Office’s decision by administrative review or judicial review.

9. Can I study while on a Skilled Worker visa?

Yes, you can study while working, subject to some restrictions, depending on the course you intend to undertake. In addition, although there is no limit on the number of study hours, this must not interfere with the job you have been sponsored to do.

If you wish to focus on studying, you will need to switch to a Student visa.

10. Can I volunteer while on a Skilled Worker visa?

Yes, you can volunteer in any sector while working. You must not be paid or receive remuneration for the voluntary work, except for reasonable expenses as outlined in the National Minimum Wage Act.

The Skilled Worker visa is an excellent option for skilled professionals seeking to live and work in the UK. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, you can increase your chances of success. If you have further questions, consider consulting an immigration solicitor to guide you through the process. Good luck with your application and your journey to the UK!

Updated: 19 December 2024

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on 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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