Our team of experienced immigration solicitors can help you determine the right visa for your situation and guide you through the application process. We liaise with the relevant legal bodies, provide clarity on government regulations, and ensure you meet eligibility criteria. Our dedicated team helps speed up your application by ensuring all required documents and supporting evidence are properly organised.
📞 Speak to a solicitor today!
The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows international workers with the necessary skills to work for licensed UK employers. This visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in 2020 and is now available to individuals with skills at RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or higher in an eligible occupation.
This long-term work visa is typically granted for up to five years, depending on the duration stated in your Certificate of Sponsorship. Your visa remains valid as long as you stay in the same role with your sponsoring employer. If you change jobs or employers, you must apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa.
✔ Extend your visa before it expires.
✔ After five years, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
✔ After one more year, you can apply for British citizenship.
If the Skilled Worker Visa is not suitable for your situation, other UK Work Visa options may be available. Visit our UK Work Visas page for more details.
The Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals to enter the UK for skilled job roles, including IT, accountancy, teaching, and healthcare. The job must be listed on the Shortage Occupation List or meet the required skill and salary thresholds.
Key Requirements:
✔ Job Offer from a Licensed UK Sponsor – You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence.
✔ Skill Level & English Proficiency – Your job must meet the RQF Level 3 skill requirement, and you must prove English proficiency (e.g., IELTS test).
✔ Minimum Salary Threshold – The salary must meet the minimum requirement, which varies based on the occupation and whether you are a new entrant or an experienced worker.
✔ Points-Based System – Points are awarded for job offers, qualifications, salary levels, and English proficiency.
1️⃣ Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Secure a job offer from a licensed employer and obtain a CoS.
2️⃣ Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather documents proving your identity, qualifications, English proficiency, and financial stability.
3️⃣ Submit Online Application: Complete the application on the UK government website, pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
4️⃣ Biometric Appointment: If required, provide fingerprints and a photo at a visa application centre.
5️⃣ Decision & Travel: Processing time varies. Once approved, you can travel to the UK before your visa starts.
✔ Valid Passport or Travel Document
✔ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Licensed UK Employer
✔ Proof of English Language Proficiency (e.g., IELTS, degree taught in English)
✔ Proof of Funds (£1,270 bank balance or employer confirmation)
✔ Job Offer & Occupation Code (Must meet RQF Level 3 and be on the eligible list)
✔ Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (if applicable)
✔ Criminal Record Certificate (if working with vulnerable individuals)
✔ Health and Care Worker Documents (if applying under this route)
✔ Additional Documents (for Shortage Occupation roles or dependents)
If you plan to switch employers, you must:
✔ Secure a job offer from a new licensed sponsor.
✔ Obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
✔ Apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa before starting your new role.
⚠️ You cannot start your new job until your visa is approved.
If you want to continue working in the UK beyond your visa’s expiry date:
✔ Apply before your visa expires to avoid immigration issues.
✔ Your job and employer must still meet the required skill and salary levels.
✔ Submit a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and updated supporting documents.
After five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible for ILR, allowing you to live and work in the UK permanently.
ILR Requirements:
✔ Valid job with a licensed sponsor
✔ Salary threshold met (typically £25,600 or more)
✔ English language and Life in the UK test passed
✔ No serious immigration violations
Once you obtain ILR, you can apply for British citizenship after one year.
At Hawflein Solutions, we provide expert immigration advice and legal representation for individuals and businesses navigating the UK visa system.
✔ Assess your eligibility and visa options
✔ Ensure all documents are prepared correctly
✔ Support businesses with sponsorship applications
✔ Assist with Skilled Worker Visas, extensions, and ILR applications
📞 Book a free consultation today! Let our expert solicitors guide you through the UK work visa process.
Have questions or need expert immigration assistance? Our team is ready to help! Contact us today
Before proceeding with your booking, please review and agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. These outline our refund policy, data privacy practices, and service guidelines.
