Skilled Worker Visa: Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa from another visa category while in the UK, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and have a valid job offer from a licensed UK employer.

No, there is no annual quota for Skilled Worker visas. However, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements.

Yes, you can change your job while on a Skilled Worker visa. You must notify UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and ensure your new job meets the Skilled Worker requirements.

No, Skilled Worker visa holders cannot access most public funds, such as income support and housing benefits. However, they can use public services like the NHS.

Yes, you can bring your spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, and children under 18 as dependants. They can work and study in the UK.

Yes, Skilled Worker visa holders may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after meeting residency and other criteria, including language and life in the UK requirements.

You can apply for your Skilled Worker visa up to three months before your job start date, as indicated on your certificate of sponsorship.

The cost varies based on the duration and application location. Standard fees range from £819 (up to 3 years) to £1,618 (more than 3 years) for applications from outside the UK, and from £943 to £1,865 for applications within the UK. Immigration Salary List roles cost £628 to £1,235, and Health and Care Worker visas £324 to £628. You will also usually pay the immigration health surcharge of £1,035 per year. Use our visa cost calculator for a full estimate.

Applications from outside the UK typically take about three weeks to process.

Yes, you can extend your Skilled Worker visa if you remain in the same job with the same employer and meet the salary requirements.

Yes, after five years in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you may apply for ILR, provided you meet residency and salary requirements.

Yes, you can switch to a Skilled Worker (General) visa from certain other visas, provided you do so before your current visa expires.

Yes, changing employers requires a new sponsorship and Skilled Worker visa application.

No, if the salary requirement is not met, your visa application will be refused.

Yes, you can work up to 20 additional hours per week in supplementary employment, provided the role is in an occupation that is eligible for the Skilled Worker route.

If your application is refused, you can reapply or appeal, though appeals can take up to 12 months.

Yes. Since Brexit, EU citizens moving to the UK to work need a Skilled Worker visa like other overseas nationals, unless they already hold settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Yes, your partner can work in the UK with a dependant visa, valid for the duration of your Skilled Worker visa.

Timelines vary based on sponsor license approval and visa processing times.

If your job ends, you must find a new sponsor and apply for a new visa to remain in the UK.

Yes, you can travel freely in and out of the UK with a Skilled Worker visa.

Consider consulting a registered immigration advisor to ensure your application is complete and accurate, as visa processes can be complex and costly.