Immigration, Simplified
Skilled Worker Visa
The UK Skilled Worker Visa enables qualified professionals to live and work in the United Kingdom with a licensed employer. Whether you have received a job offer or are planning your move to the UK, our experienced immigration advisers provide expert guidance on eligibility, sponsorship requirements, and the complete visa application process to maximise your chances of approval.
Official UK Government Updates
For the latest guidance, eligibility requirements, and visa regulations, we recommend checking the official UK Government website before submitting your application.
Core Eligibility
To qualify for 70 points under the current system, you must meet these mandatory criteria:
- Sponsorship (20 points): A valid job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office-approved A-rated sponsor.
- Skill Level (20 points): The role must be at RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree) for most standard roles.
- English Proficiency (10 points): As of January 8, 2026, new applicants must prove English skills at CEFR Level B2 (Upper Intermediate) in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
2026 Salary Thresholds
To claim the final 20 points, your salary must meet the “higher of the two” rule: it must be at least the general threshold OR 100% of the specific “going rate” for your occupation code.
| Option | Category | General Threshold | Tradeable Points |
| A | Standard Applicant | £41,700 | 20 |
| B | Relevant PhD (non-STEM) | £37,500 | 20 |
| C | Relevant PhD (STEM) | £33,400 | 20 |
| D | Immigration Salary List (ISL) | £33,400 | 20 |
| E | New Entrant (Under 26/Recent Grad) | £33,400 | 20 |
- New Entrants: You can be paid 70% of the going rate, but your salary cannot fall below the £33,400 floor. This status is limited to a maximum of 4 years.
- Transitional Arrangements: If you held a Skilled Worker visa before April 4, 2024, and are extending with the same employer, your general threshold may be lower (typically £31,300).
Application Costs (2026 Rates)
Costs vary based on the length of your sponsorship and whether you apply from inside or outside the UK.
| Application Type | Outside UK Fee | Inside UK (Extension) |
| Up to 3 years | £769 | £885 |
| More than 3 years | £1,519 | £1,751 |
| ISL Roles (Up to 3 yrs) | £590 | £590 |
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Most adults must pay £1,035 per year upfront.
- Maintenance: You must show at least £1,270 in personal savings held for 28 days, unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance on the CoS.
Timeline and Decisions
- Applying: You can apply up to 3 months before your start date.
- Standard Processing: Decisions take roughly 3 weeks (outside UK) or 8 weeks (inside UK).
- Priority Services: Priority (5 days) costs an extra £500, while Super Priority (24 hours) costs £1,000.
Settlement (ILR)
The Skilled Worker route typically leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years. However, under 2026 proposals, the Home Office is reviewing extending the baseline pathway to 10 years for certain categories. To qualify, you must still be needed for your job and meet the relevant salary threshold at the time of application.
Skilled Worker Visa
Expert assistance for Skilled Worker visa entry clearance, switching, or extension applications.
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Important Information Regarding Our Fees
Professional Services Fees: Our quoted fees cover our professional immigration advice and application support only. They do not include UK Government application fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), biometric appointment charges, translation services, or any other third-party costs.
Personalised Fee Estimates: All prices provided are intended as estimates and may vary depending on the complexity of your case, the level of support required, the volume of documentation, and any urgent processing requests.
Disclaimer: All prices mentioned are exclusive of VAT where applicable.
Expert UK visa and immigration services designed to simplify your application, provide real-time progress updates, and maximise your chances of success.
