Skilled Worker Visa UK: Complete 2025 Guide

The Skilled Worker visa replaced the old Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020. It allows overseas nationals to work in the UK for an approved employer in an eligible occupation. In 2025 it remains one of the most popular routes for people moving to the UK from outside the European Economic Area.

Key Eligibility Requirements

• A job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence
• Your role must be on the list of eligible occupations (SOC codes)
• A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
• English language proficiency at CEFR B1 level or above
• Salary meeting the general threshold of £38,700/year OR the going rate for your SOC code — whichever is higher
• Financial requirement: enough savings to support yourself (unless your sponsor certifies maintenance)

Lower Salary Thresholds (2025)

Certain occupations on the Immigration Salary List (formerly the Shortage Occupation List) attract a reduced salary threshold. Health and care workers sponsored by the NHS or by CQC-registered providers also have their own salary structures. Always check the latest Home Office guidance for the specific SOC code applicable to your role.

Required Documents

• Valid passport or travel document
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
• Proof of English language ability (qualification certificate, test result, or passport from an exempt country)
• Evidence of funds (bank statements covering the 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before application)
• Tuberculosis test results if applying from an affected country
• Criminal record certificate for certain roles (e.g., health and education)

How to Apply

Applications are made online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal. You will need to pay the visa fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and book a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre if applying from abroad. Standard processing takes up to 3 weeks from outside the UK and up to 8 weeks from within the UK.

Use Visary to track your application status, set reminders for your decision date, and store all your document references in one place.