How to Move to the UK with a Skilled Worker Visa

Planning to start a new life in the UK with better career opportunities? The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the best pathways for international professionals who want to live and work legally in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re an engineer, nurse, IT specialist, or teacher, this guide will help you understand how to move to the UK with a Skilled Worker Visa in 2025.

What is a Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker Visa allows non-UK citizens to come and work for an approved employer in the UK. It replaced the old Tier 2 (General) work visa. The visa lets you live in the UK, work for a sponsoring company, and even bring your family with you.

Why choose the Skilled Worker Visa?

• Legal pathway to live and work in the UK
• Opportunity to apply for permanent residence after 5 years
• Bring your partner and children with you
• Work in a high-demand field with good salaries

Who is eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa?

To apply, you must meet certain requirements:

• Have a confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor
• Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations
• You must be paid the minimum salary for that role (usually £26,200 per year or higher depending on the job)
• Prove your English language skills (pass an approved test or have an eligible degree taught in English)
• Have enough savings to support yourself when you arrive (at least £1,270 unless your employer can cover it)

How to get a job offer from a UK sponsor

The first step is to find a UK employer approved by the Home Office to sponsor foreign workers. Some trusted ways to find genuine offers:

• Search on UK government’s official Skilled Worker Sponsor List
• Use popular UK job sites like Indeed UK, Totaljobs, Reed, and Glassdoor
• Apply directly on company career pages for big employers who hire internationally
• Connect with recruitment agencies specializing in overseas placements

When you get a job offer, the employer will give you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) which you need for your visa application.

Documents needed for a Skilled Worker Visa

• Valid passport
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
• Proof of English language ability
• Proof of savings (bank statement) if your sponsor is not covering your costs
• TB test results if you’re from a listed country
• Police clearance certificate if required

How to apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Applications are done online through the UK Government Visa and Immigration website. You will:

• Fill in the online application form
• Pay the visa fee (usually £719 to £1,500 depending on stay length and job)
• Pay the healthcare surcharge (£1,035 per year per person)
• Upload your documents
• Book a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photos

Processing usually takes about 3 weeks if you’re applying from outside the UK.

Can you bring your family with you?

Yes! You can bring your partner and children as your dependents. They must apply for their visas and pay the same healthcare surcharge. They can live, work, and study in the UK while you hold a valid Skilled Worker Visa.

How long can you stay on a Skilled Worker Visa?

The visa can last up to 5 years before you need to extend it. After 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is permanent residence.

Popular jobs for Skilled Worker Visa applicants

Many sectors in the UK have a shortage of skilled workers. Some popular jobs include:

• Healthcare professionals — nurses, doctors, caregivers
• IT and tech roles — software developers, cybersecurity analysts
• Engineering — civil, mechanical, electrical
• Teachers in high-demand subjects
• Skilled trades — electricians, plumbers, welders
• Hospitality and chefs

Tips to boost your chances

• Update your CV to match the UK format
• Write a clear cover letter explaining why you’re a good fit
• Highlight any international qualifications and English certificates
• Apply to multiple employers and be patient
• Never pay agencies large upfront fees — genuine sponsors won’t ask for money

How much does it cost to get a Skilled Worker Visa?

Besides the visa application fee, you will pay the healthcare surcharge, plus any costs for English tests or document translations. Overall, plan a budget of around £2,500–£4,000 for you alone, more if you bring family.

FAQs

Can you change jobs on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, but you must apply to update your visa if you switch to another sponsor or job role.

Can you study while on this visa?
Yes, you can study, but your main purpose must still be your sponsored job.

What happens if you lose your job?
Your sponsor must report it. You’ll have 60 days to find another sponsor or leave the UK.

Final thoughts

Moving to the UK with a Skilled Worker Visa is one of the safest ways to work and build a new life abroad. It takes planning, patience, and paperwork, but thousands of professionals do it every year. Focus on your skills, apply to trusted employers, prepare your documents, and get ready for your UK journey.

Tip: Save this guide and share it with friends or family who dream of working in the UK!