Eligibility Criteria:

1. Job Offer from a UK Employer: Secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
2. Employer Approval: Your employer must be an approved sponsor by the Home Office.
3. Certificate of Sponsorship: A valid “Certificate of Sponsorship” must be issued by your employer.
4. Eligible Occupation: Your role must be listed under eligible occupations.
5. Skill Level Requirement: Meet the skill level requirement, minimum equivalent to RQF level 3.
6. Minimum Salary Requirements: The annual salary must be at least £26,200.
7. English Language Proficiency: Fulfill the English language requirements.
8. Financial Capability: Have £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself in the UK.

Job Offer from a UK Employer:

To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you need a valid job offer from a licensed UK employer. This offer must come from an A-rated business listed as a licensed sponsor, match a role listed under eligible occupations, and meet the minimum salary requirements. A valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK employer is also required.

Employer Approval:

Your job offer must come from a company on the Home Office’s list of licensed sponsors. Ensure your employer has the necessary license to hire international workers under the Skilled Worker Route. Employers must hold an A-rating to issue new Certificates of Sponsorship. Confirm this status before applying to avoid delays or denials.

Certificate of Sponsorship:

To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer. The CoS is a digital document detailing the sponsored role, including job title, type, employment dates, gross salary, sponsor licence number, and expiration date. It provides essential information for the visa application process.

Eligible Occupation:

UK Visas and Immigration will approve a Skilled Worker visa only for positions listed under eligible occupations. Ensure you have the required skills or experience for the role. You may need to request the Standard Occupation Code (SOC) from your employer.

Skill Level Requirement:

Applicants must have skills equivalent to RQF level 3, similar to the UK A-level standard. This requirement emphasizes demonstrating skills rather than holding a specific qualification, allowing for a more inclusive evaluation.

Minimum Salary Requirements:

The Skilled Worker visa initially required a minimum salary of £25,600 per year or £10.10 per hour. As of April 12, 2023, this has been updated to £26,200. Exceptions exist based on occupation-specific “going rates.” If your role has a higher “going rate,” your salary must meet or exceed that amount. Exceptions to the minimum salary requirement allow for eligibility with lower salaries in certain cases.

Financial Capability:

Provide evidence of having at least £1,270 in your bank account for your first month in the UK. Alternatively, your employer can provide a letter confirming their commitment to cover this financial obligation.

English Language Proficiency:

Demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:

1. English Language Test: Pass a CEFR English test at minimum level B1.
2. Academic Qualifications: Hold a degree or other qualification taught in English.
3. Exemption: Be from an exempt country such as the USA, Canada, or Australia.
4. Professional Body Approval: Complete an English Language assessment endorsed by a regulated professional body in your field.