UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is the main immigration route for overseas nationals who have secured a qualifying offer of employment from a licensed UK sponsor. It enables individuals to live and work in the United Kingdom and, subject to meeting residence and eligibility requirements, may lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain.

This information is intended for prospective applicants who have already secured, or are close to securing, a sponsored job offer.

1. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, all of the following criteria must be met:

A valid job offer from a UK employer holding a Home Office Sponsor Licence.
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by that employer.
The role must be eligible for sponsorship – generally at RQF Level 6 or above, or included on the Immigration Salary List.
The salary must meet or exceed the Home Office minimum thresholds (see below).
The applicant must meet the English language requirement.
The applicant must satisfy standard immigration criteria, including financial requirements and submission of supporting documentation.

2. Salary Thresholds (as at January 2026)

To qualify, the salary offered by the employer must meet the minimum level set by the Home Office.

As at January 2026:

The general minimum salary requirement is £41,700 per year,
or the full “going rate” for the occupation if that figure is higher.

If an offered salary is below the applicable threshold, the applicant will not be eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa, and a visa application should not be made.

3. English Language Requirement (applying to new applications from 8 January 2026)

The Home Office has confirmed that the English language standard for Skilled Worker Visa applications will rise.

Effective from 8 January 2026, new applications must demonstrate English at CEFR Level B2 (Upper–Intermediate).
This replaces the previous B1 requirement.

Applicants may meet the requirement through:

A Home Office-approved English language test at B2 level,
A degree taught in English that is recognised by UK ENIC,
Or an applicable exemption under the Immigration Rules.

4. Application Process

Once a job offer and CoS have been issued, the visa application can be submitted. The process generally involves:

Completing the online application form,
Uploading supporting documents,
Providing biometrics (or using the Home Office ID Check App),
Paying the visa fee and NHS surcharge,
Awaiting a Home Office decision.

Typical decision times range from several weeks depending on service level and location. Priority services may shorten the timeline.

5. Our Services – When We Can Assist

We provide legal assistance once you already possess:

a formal job offer and
a valid Certificate of Sponsorship.

Our support includes:

Eligibility review and tailored advice,
Preparation and submission of the Skilled Worker application,
Guidance for UK employers on sponsor compliance,
Long-term immigration planning (extensions, ILR, family applications).

Important Notice – Before Contacting Us

We kindly ask clients and prospective clients to read this carefully:

As Immigration Lawyers, we do not assist with securing employment or finding a sponsoring employer in the UK.
Due to the high volume of enquiries we receive, we are unable to respond to requests asking for help to find a job or sponsorship.

The Skilled Worker Visa process becomes relevant only after you have secured a job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer.

6. Final Remarks

The Skilled Worker Visa is a viable and structured route for individuals who meet the requirements and have a confirmed sponsored role. Compliance with salary, skill level, and English language standards is essential.

Consultation and Fees: Book Your 1-Hour Appointment

To provide advice that is tailored to your personal situation, we offer a dedicated 1-hour consultation.

💼 Consultation fee: £90 (1 hour)

If you continue with us for the application, this fee is deducted from the professional fee.

Application fee (Skilled Worker Visa): £500

(The Home Office fees and any associated expenses for third parties, including document translation – when required – are charged separately.)

We would be honoured to support you and your family on this important journey.

📲 Contact us today to book your 1-hour consultation.
Let us guide you with professionalism, care, and a service tailored to your needs.
We speak English, Italian and French!

☎️ Call us: 0116 215 3392
📱 WhatsApp: 07815 500 826
📧 info@baraka.legal
🌐 http://baraka.legal

⚖️ Important Notice

Please note that the information above is general guidance only and should not be considered formal or tailored legal advice. Every immigration situation is unique. For personalised advice, please contact us to book a consultation.standing your rights as an EU citizen, or resolving a complex documentation issue, we are here to guide you through every step of the journey.