Skilled Migration

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a pivotal route for professionals seeking to work in the United Kingdom. This visa category enables UK employers to attract global talent across various sectors, from healthcare and engineering to information technology and creative industries.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must satisfy specific requirements:

• Job Offer: Secure a valid job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
• Skill Level: The position must be at the required skill level, typically equivalent to Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 3 or above.
• English Proficiency: Demonstrate a competent level of English language proficiency.
• Salary Threshold: Meet the minimum salary threshold, which varies based on the role and the applicant's experience.

Points-Based Assessment:

The visa operates on a points-based system, where applicants must accumulate at least 70 points through:

• Mandatory Criteria (50 Points):
  • Job offer from an approved sponsor (20 points).
  • Job at the appropriate skill level (20 points).
  • English language proficiency (10 points).
• Tradeable Criteria (20 Points):
  • Salary between £20,480 and £23,039 (0 points).
  • Salary between £23,040 and £25,599 (10 points).
  • Salary of £25,600 or above (20 points).
  • Job in a shortage occupation (20 points).
  • Relevant PhD qualification (10 or 20 points, depending on the field).

Application Process:

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Obtain a CoS from your UK employer.
• Online Application: Complete the online visa application form.
• Supporting Documents: Submit necessary documents, including proof of identity, CoS, English language proficiency, and financial means.
• Biometrics: Provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application center.

Visa Duration and Extensions:

The Skilled Worker Visa is typically granted for up to five years, depending on the employment contract. Visa holders can apply for extensions or switch to other visa categories if they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Pathway to Settlement:

After residing in the UK for five continuous years under the Skilled Worker Visa, individuals may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), granting permanent residency status.

Recent Developments:

As of February 2025, the UK government is considering reforms to the Skilled Worker Visa program. Proposals include increasing the minimum salary threshold to £38,700 to reduce net migration, even affecting sectors with labor shortages.

Additionally, unconventional roles such as DJs, dog walkers, and homeopaths have been identified as eligible under the current visa list, prompting discussions about refining the criteria to better align with the UK's economic needs.

The Skilled Worker Visa remains integral to the UK's immigration system, balancing the attraction of international talent with domestic labor market considerations. Prospective applicants should stay informed about policy changes to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.