UK Skilled Worker Visa 2023: Process, Requirements, and Cost
Introduction:
The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a popular immigration option for individuals seeking employment in the UK. This visa allows qualified individuals to work in the UK for an approved employer and stay for up to 5 years. It has replaced the previous Tier 2 (General) work visa. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information about the UK Skilled Worker Visa, including its application process, eligibility criteria, and associated costs.
Why Choose the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa is designed to attract highly skilled workers from around the world to fill job vacancies in the UK. It offers a pathway to work and live in the UK for a significant period of time, and after 5 years, individuals may be eligible to apply for permanent settlement.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
Job Offer:
You must have a job offer from an approved UK employer, also known as a sponsor. Your employer will provide you with a “certificate of sponsorship” that includes details about the offered role.
Eligible Occupation:
Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations, which can be determined using the ONS occupation coding tool. This ensures that the occupation is recognized and in demand in the UK.
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Salary Requirement:
You must be paid a minimum salary, which is currently set at £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour. Each occupation code has its own specific annual going rate, so it’s essential to check the going rate for your particular job.
Application Fee:
The standard application fees for the UK Skilled Worker Visa are as follows:
Up to 3 years: £719 per person
More than 3 years: £1,423 per person
However, if your job is on the shortage occupation list, you may be eligible for reduced fees:
Up to 3 years: £479 per person
More than 3 years: £943 per person
Application Process:
To apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, follow these steps:
Research Occupations:
Begin by checking the shortage occupation list and choose an occupation that aligns with your field of expertise.
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Verify Eligibility:
Confirm if your chosen occupation is eligible for the UK Skilled Worker Visa by referring to the eligible occupation list.
Find an Approved Employer:
Look for an approved UK employer that offers a job in your selected field. You can find a list of approved employers on the UK government’s website.
Secure a Job Offer:
Obtain a job offer from the approved employer, along with a “certificate of sponsorship” containing relevant job details.
Online Application:
Apply online through the UK government’s official visa application portal. The processing time for visa decisions is typically around 3 weeks if you are applying from outside the UK.
Visa Duration and Permitted Activities:
Upon receiving the UK Skilled Worker Visa, you can:
- Work in an eligible job.
- Study.
- Bring your partner and children to the UK as dependents.
- Engage in voluntary work.
- Travel abroad and return to the UK.
- Apply for settlement in the UK after 5 years.
However, there are restrictions as well. On this visa, you cannot:
Apply for most benefits or the State Pension.
Change jobs or employers without updating your visa.
Conclusion:
The UK Skilled Worker Visa provides a valuable opportunity for skilled individuals to work in the UK and potentially settle there permanently. By securing a job offer from an approved UK employer and meeting the specified criteria, applicants can enjoy a rewarding professional experience in the UK. It is crucial to thoroughly research eligible occupations, find an approved employer, and follow the correct application process. Remember to stay up to date with the latest requirements and fees provided by the UK government’s official sources.