Skilled Worker Visa (UK Employer Sponsored)

The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to come to or stay in the UK to work in an eligible skilled role for an approved employer with a sponsor licence. Your visa is usually granted for up to 5 years at a time and can lead to settlement if long‑term requirements are met.

Who can apply

• Applicants aged 18 or over with a genuine job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
• Roles at the required skill level (normally RQF Level 3 or above) and on the list of eligible occupations.
• Jobs that meet or exceed the relevant salary thresholds and going rate.

Document checklist

• Valid passport with at least one blank page and any required TB certificate.
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number from your UK employer.
• Job details including title, occupation code, salary and employer’s sponsor licence number.
• Evidence of English language ability at CEFR B1 or above (for example approved test or eligible qualification).
• Evidence of personal savings, unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
• Criminal record certificate for certain roles and countries, where required.
• Consent letter if you were recently financially sponsored by a government or international scholarship agency.

Key conditions

• You must work only in the role described on your Certificate of Sponsorship, with limited supplementary work allowed by the rules.
• You must inform the Home Office of certain changes, such as job change to a different occupation code