How to apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows qualified professionals to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years. To apply, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship licence and meet the points-based immigration criteria set by the Home Office. This guide outlines each step of the Skilled Worker Visa application process, eligibility requirements, and current 2025 processing times.

Eligibility and Core Requirements

Before you apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, ensure that you meet the minimum eligibility requirements under the UK’s points-based immigration system. Applicants must achieve at least 70 points across mandatory and tradeable criteria.

For full details on eligibility, see UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Criteria.

• Job offer from a licensed sponsor: Your employer must be approved by the Home Office and issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
• Eligible occupation code: Your job must appear on the list of approved occupations for the Skilled Worker route.
• Minimum salary requirement: You must earn at least the general salary threshold of £41,700 or the “going rate” for your specific job role, whichever is higher.
• English language ability: You must demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR level B1 or above.
• Financial maintenance: You must show sufficient funds (typically £1,270) to support yourself unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance.

Documents You Will Need

Supporting documents should be uploaded digitally using the Home Office’s secure portal. For detailed steps, read Supporting Documents – Digital Upload Guide.

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
• Valid passport or travel document
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate)
• Proof of financial support, if required
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable

How to Apply

Applicants can check their nearest visa centre in the UK Visa Application Processing Centres 2025 list.

• Confirm sponsorship: Verify that your employer has a valid sponsor licence and has issued your CoS.
• Complete the online application: Fill out the Skilled Worker Visa form on the Home Office website and pay the relevant fees.
• Pay the healthcare surcharge: The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) must be paid when you apply.
• Book biometrics: Attend an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photographs.
• Submit supporting evidence: Upload all required documents digitally or in person, depending on your location.

Visa Fees and Processing Times

As of October 2025, the Home Office application fees are as follows:

Processing times depend on where and how you apply:

For information on expedited applications, visit UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025.

• Up to 3 years (outside the UK): £819 per applicant
• More than 3 years (outside the UK): £1,618 per applicant
• Up to 3 years (inside the UK): £943 per applicant
• More than 3 years (inside the UK): £1,865 per applicant
• Standard processing: 3 weeks (outside the UK), 8 weeks (inside the UK)
• Priority service: 5 working days
• Super priority service: 24 hours

After Your Visa is Granted

If your application is successful, you’ll receive a digital immigration status confirming your right to live and work in the UK. Your Skilled Worker Visa will typically be valid for up to 5 years. You can extend it or apply for indefinite leave to remain after meeting residency and employment requirements.

For information on extensions, see How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa.

If Your Application is Refused

If your visa is refused, the refusal notice will explain why and outline whether you can request an administrative review. Common reasons include insufficient evidence, incorrect salary levels, or incomplete documentation. For further help, see UK Visa Refusals.

About This Page

Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor