Skilled Worker Visa
Discover exciting job opportunities in the UK with the Skilled Worker Visa, introduced on 1st January 2021. This new visa system replaces the previous Tier-2 route, making it easier for foreign skilled workers to find employment in the UK by lowering the required skill threshold, eliminating the Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT), removing the annual cap on sponsored workers, and reducing the minimum salary requirements.
To secure your Skilled Worker Visa, you’ll need to obtain a total of 70 points, comprising 50 non-tradeable points and 20 tradeable points. Take advantage of this streamlined process and seize the chance to build a rewarding career in the United Kingdom – your journey towards professional success starts with the Skilled Worker Visa.
How to apply:
The applicants can submit their Skilled Worker Visa application once they have received a job offer from a UK-based employer [Skilled Worker sponsor] which holds a valid Sponsor License.
Skilled Worker sponsor doesn’t need to pass Resident Labour Market Test [RLMT]. Under the scrapped Tier-2 route, RLMT was a mandatory requirement meaning that the job must have been advertised in two places for at least 28 days before it can be offered to applicants from outside the EEA. After CoS has been granted, applicants will be able to start their Skilled Worker Visa application.
The applicant must apply within 3 months from the date CoS is assigned. However, if their application is refused and they wish to make another request, they will need a new CoS.
UKVI requirements for Skilled Worker applications:
Employment offer from UK based company or organization provided with Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by a licensed sponsor
Applicants are exempt from meeting maintenance requirement if they have a fully sponsor who can provide the maintenance cost if they need it
Must be age 16 or over on the date of application.
Meet specific English language requirements [B1].
Do not own more than 10% of the sponsoring companies shares.
Sponsorship for Skilled Worker Visa:
One of the main requirements of this visa is that for an employer to be a licensed sponsor of Skilled Workers. Applicants will need to show this in their visa application and provide proof through their Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
The CoS is not a physical document but a reference number that must be included in applicants’ applications.
Should their employer has Sponsor License revoked while they are an employee there, they will need to find a new sponsor and reapply for a visa.
How long can I stay in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Applicants can come to the UK with a Skilled Worker Visa (General) for a maximum of 5 years and 14 days, or the time given on their certificate of sponsorship plus 1 month, whichever is shorter.
They can enter the UK using their Skilled Worker Visa up to 14 days before the start date on their certificate of sponsorship.
Skilled Worker Category
Skilled Worker ICT (Long Term Staff)
Skilled Worker ICT (Graduate Trainee)
Sportsperson
Minister of Religion
Skilled Worker Category
Up to 5 years
12 months
Up to 3 years
Up to 3 years and 1 month
Skilled Worker Visa Extension:
The Skilled Worker Visa is usually granted for an initial period of 3 years. The applicants may be granted further leave to remain in the UK provided they apply for an extension before the expiry of their visa and subject to fulfilling all requirements of the relevant Immigration Rules.
How to Apply:
If you intend to extend your leave to remain as a Skilled Worker visa holder, you must submit your Skilled Worker Visa renewal application from within the UK, and before your current visa expires.
Once your employer has agreed to extend your employment contract, they will need to apply for an unrestricted Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the Home Office.
In that case, your employer will not be required to undertake a new Resident Labor Market Test before assigning you a new CoS.
Visa Renewal Requirements:
Your eligibility for extension will depend on whether or not you continue to meet the Skilled Worker eligibility criteria under the same visa category, meaning that your role and salary must still qualify for a work permit.
As a part of your application, you will need the following:
A new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A relevant salary for your role –must be more than in your original application
Evidence of maintenance funds
Proof of English Language ability
Biometric evidence
Extension processing time:
The standard processing time for Skilled Worker visa extension applications is between 8 weeks. However, if you use the Home Office priority service, you should get a decision within 5 workings days* .
It must however be noted that the Home Office may need more time to review your case if you fail to submit adequate evidence of your situation. Besides, you might also be required to attend an interview to confirm your eligibility.
The applicants can submit their Skilled Worker visa renewal application up to 60 days before the expiry of their current immigration status. Nevertheless, if you are on a strict deadline, you can apply using the Home Office’s Super Priority Service, which will allow you to get your decision within 24 hours.
Get in touch with us now on 01206 489 077 or make an inquiry online to get expert help.
