Skilled Worker Visas

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Applicants must hold a CoS from an organisation with a Skilled Worker sponsor licence.
• Skill Level: Applicants must be applying to do a job which is at the required skill level and is eligible for sponsorship – this will depend on the Standard Occupation Code (“SOC”) for the applicant’s role.
• Salary Level: Applicants must be paid at least the minimum salary rate for the role they will be doing – there are various salary thresholds depending on the individual’s circumstances.
• English language: Applicants meet the required level of English language – this can be met in a number of ways, including having a degree which was taught in English, passing an English language test or being a national of a majority English-speaking included on the Home Office’s prescribed list.
• Financial requirements: Applicants must meet the financial requirements to support themselves during their stay. The sponsoring employer can also certify maintenance for the applicant.

The first step in the process is securing sponsorship with an employer who holds a valid UK sponsor licence. If the employer does not already have a sponsor licence, they will need to apply for one, and further information regarding this can be found here.

An individual can either apply for a Skilled Worker visa from outside the UK, or inside the UK if they already hold another UK visa.

The application process involves:

• Considering skill and salary eligibility
• Obtaining and assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship
• Collating the necessary supporting documents
• Preparing and submitting a visa application
• Providing biometrics, either online or at an appointment
• Obtaining the visa decision

Upon approval, the individual can start work with their employer. The sponsor must ensure ongoing compliance with the Home Office requirements throughout the visa period.

Our team has extensive experience supporting organisations and individuals through the Skilled Worker process.

The Skilled Worker route has become a complex due to significant changes made to the skills and salary thresholds since April 2024. It is therefore crucial that organisations and individuals ensure the necessary requirements are being met before proceeding with a Skilled Worker application.

We work closely with a wide range of organisations and individuals, and offer comprehensive assistance, including:

• Advising on the requirements of the Skilled Worker route to ensure they are met
• Advising on and reviewing documents required to support the application
• Drafting Certificates of Sponsorship, visa application forms, and letters in support of the application
• Guiding through the submission and biometric stages
• Ensuring ongoing compliance with Home Office requirements.

If you are an individual or organisation looking for help with Skilled Worker applications, please contact a member of the team who will be happy to discuss this with you.