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Work visas

UK Work Permit Advice

Non-UK citizens are permitted to work in the United Kingdom for a specific employer with a UK Work Visa. Latest advice in 2023.

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Information only

Immigration rules, fees and processing times change. This article is general guidance, not legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official United Kingdom government website before you apply.

Non-UK citizens are permitted to work in the UK for a specific employer with a UK Work Permit, such as a Skilled Worker Visa. To apply for a Work Visa for the UK , you must already have a job offer from a UK employer, unless applying for an Innovator Founder Visa or Visa under the youth mobility or graduate programmes.

Who can submit an application for a UK work permit?

To qualify for a visa, you must:

Many UK Work Visas will require a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a registered employer, and you must meet the requirements for the job listed in your CoS.

  • Meet the eligibility Requirements of the Visa you are applying for.
  • Reach a total of at least 70 points, in the UK's points based system.
  • Have a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality.
  • Be able to speak, read, write and understand English.

How do I submit an application?

You must submit an online application and any required paperwork, such as your CoS, passport, evidence of your English language ability, and financial stability, to be considered for a UK Work Visa. Also, you will be required to provide biometric data, like your fingerprints and a photo, in an interview in person at a visa application center.

If granted a UK Work Visa, you can work in for the designated employer for a a length of time stated by your visa, Skilled Worker Visas for example are a maximum of 5 years. You may be able bring family members who can work and attend school in the UK, including partners or children.

What are the advantages of a Work Visa?

A Work Visa for the UK has various advantages, such as allowing you to live and work in the UK, get valuable work experience, and bolster any applications for permanent residency. A UK Work Visa also allows you to travel anywhere in the UK and advance your career.

What types of Work Visas are there?

Numerous UK Work Visas are available, such as:

Your employment and circumstances will determine the type of visa you should apply for.

  • General work visas
  • Intra-company transfer visas
  • Visas for sportspeople

Does it take a long time to get a Work Visa for the UK?

Depending on the type of visa you're looking for and the time of year, the processing time for a Work Visa application can change. It is recommended to apply as soon as possible and allow several weeks of application processing time. Your application can be delayed if you do not fill in all relevant information.

What happens if your application for a Work Visa is denied?

You may be able to appeal the judgment or reapply if your Work Visa application is denied. When reapplying, you must carefully consider the factors that led to your rejection and take steps to resolve any problems.

You should research the specific visa requirements for your job and employer if you're considering working in the UK. A Work Visa can be easily obtained with the proper planning and paperwork, leading to many career opportunities.