UK Skilled Worker Visa: Eligibility, Salary Requirements & Process

Looking to work in the UK? Here’s what you need to know.

If you’re planning to move to the UK for better job opportunities and a stable future, you’re not alone. Thousands of skilled professionals apply every year to work in sectors ranging from healthcare and engineering to IT and education.

The UK Skilled Worker Visa opens doors to a thriving career and legal residence, secured through sponsorship from a recognized employer. But the process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.

In this blog, we’ll break down the essentials of the Skilled Worker route—including eligibility, salary requirements, and application steps—so you’re fully prepared to make your move.

What Is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker Visa opens doors to a thriving career and legal residence, secured through sponsorship from a recognized employer. It replaced the old Tier 2 (General) Work Visa and is designed to bring skilled labor into the country to fill workforce gaps.

This visa can lead to permanent residency in the UK (also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain) after five years of continuous work and living in the country.

Who Qualifies for a UK Skilled Worker Visa?

Applicants for the UK Skilled Worker Visa are required to fulfill these eligibility conditions:

• Secure a verified job offer from a Home Office-approved UK employer.
• Your job must be on the eligible occupations list.
• You must meet the English language requirement.
• The salary must meet the minimum threshold (more below).
• You must have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.

Salary Requirements for the UK Skilled Worker Visa

Salary Requirements for the UK Skilled Worker Visa

One of the most important aspects of this visa is the salary threshold. The general salary requirement is:

• ₹27,24,800 per year or ₹1,118 per hour
  OR
• ₹21,79,840 per year or ₹1,118 per hour for shortage occupations and new entrants.

However, the minimum salary may vary based on your job type, experience, and industry. Some health and education jobs have different thresholds.

Pro tip: Always check the updated salary tables for your specific occupation on the official UK Government website.

Step-by-Step Application Process

A simplified guide to applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa follows:

1. Get a Job Offer
   Obtain a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor to receive your mandatory Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). 
2. Check If Your Job Is Eligible
   Make sure the job you’ve been offered is on the government’s list of eligible occupations. 
3. Meet the English Language Requirement
   Show you know English by taking a test or by having a degree from an English-speaking school. 
4. Gather Required Documents
   You’ll typically need:
   
   • Passport
   • Certificate of Sponsorship
   • Proof of English
   • Proof of funds (unless exempt) 
5. Apply Online
   Apply online via the UK Government’s portal, and ensure payment of the visa fee and healthcare surcharge. 
6. Wait for a Decision
   Applicants outside the UK typically receive a decision within three weeks.

How Long Can You Stay?

A UK Skilled Worker Visa can last up to 5 years, after which you can either renew it or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is a path to permanent residency.

Final Thoughts: Is the UK Skilled Worker Visa Right for You?

If you have the skills, qualifications, and job offer from a licensed UK employer, the UK Skilled Worker Visa is a reliable way to build a professional life in the UK. From high-paying tech jobs to in-demand roles in healthcare, the UK continues to welcome skilled professionals from across the globe.

Make sure your documents are in order, check your job’s eligibility, and always stay updated on the latest UK immigration rules.

Struggling with Your UK Skilled Worker Visa? We Can Help

At Global NextGen Professionals, we assist skilled individuals in navigating the visa application process—from job matching to document verification and application filing. Our team stays updated with UK immigration policies to ensure a smooth journey to your future in the UK.

Get in touch today for a consultation and let’s get your UK career started.