The Skilled Worker Visa UK is the primary route for overseas nationals seeking employment in the United Kingdom. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying in 2026, including the new £41,700 salary threshold, B2 English language requirement introduced in January 2026, RQF Level 6 skill requirements, the 70-point scoring system, application fees, and the pathway to permanent settlement. Whether you're an applicant preparing your application or an employer considering sponsorship, this guide provides authoritative guidance aligned with the latest Immigration Rules.
Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa UK in 2026
The Skilled Worker Visa operates under the UK's points-based immigration system, replacing the former Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020. It remains the most common work visa route, although recent policy changes have significantly tightened eligibility. According to Home Office statistics, only 11,733 Skilled Worker visas were issued to main applicants in Q3 2025—the lowest quarterly figure in three years—reflecting the impact of increased salary thresholds and skill level requirements.
What is a Skilled Worker Visa UK?
A Skilled Worker Visa UK allows overseas nationals to work in the United Kingdom for an employer holding a Home Office sponsor licence. The visa can be granted for up to 5 years at a time, is extendable, and provides a pathway to permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years of continuous residence.
The Skilled Worker route is designed for individuals from outside the UK (including EEA nationals who do not have settled or pre-settled status) who have secured a job offer from a licensed UK employer. Irish nationals have distinct rights under the Common Travel Area and do not require a visa to work in the UK. The visa allows holders to work, study (without interfering with their sponsored employment), bring eligible dependants, and travel in and out of the UK freely.
Key Features of the Skilled Worker Visa
- Duration: Valid for up to 5 years per grant, with unlimited extensions possible
- Settlement pathway: Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years
- Dependants: Can bring spouse/partner and children under 18
- Switching: Can switch employers with a new Certificate of Sponsorship
- Study: Permitted alongside sponsored employment
- NHS access: Via Immigration Health Surcharge payment
Skilled Worker Visa UK Requirements 2026
To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must accumulate 70 points under the points-based system. This includes 50 mandatory points and 20 tradeable points. The requirements are set out in Appendix Skilled Worker of the Immigration Rules (SW 1.1 to SW 16.2).
The 70-Point Scoring System
What is the Skill Level Requirement for Skilled Worker Visa?
From July 2025, jobs must be skilled to at least RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor's degree) to qualify for Skilled Worker sponsorship. Previously, the threshold was RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent). Limited exceptions exist for roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) and Temporary Shortage List (TSL), which will both expire by 31 December 2026.
The job must be at an appropriate skill level as classified under the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC 2020) system. Employers must select the correct SOC code when assigning the Certificate of Sponsorship, as miscoding is a common cause of visa refusals and sponsor licence compliance issues.
English Language Requirement (B2 from January 2026)
From 8 January 2026, first-time Skilled Worker applicants must demonstrate CEFR Level B2 English proficiency (upper-intermediate), replacing the previous B1 requirement. This applies to reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Those extending their visa continue to be assessed at B1 level.
Applicants can meet the English language requirement by passing an approved test (such as IELTS for UKVI with minimum band scores), holding a degree taught in English verified by UK ENIC, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country. The higher B2 standard represents approximately IELTS band 5.5-6.5.
Sponsorship and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Every Skilled Worker applicant must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer holding a Home Office sponsor licence. The CoS is an electronic record (not a physical document) containing a unique reference number that confirms the job offer details, SOC code, salary, and working hours. For detailed guidance on employer requirements, see our guide to sponsorship requirements for Skilled Workers.
Financial Requirement
Applicants must show they have at least £1,270 in available funds for at least 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before the date of application. This requirement can be waived if the sponsor confirms on the CoS that they will support the applicant for their first month in the UK, or if the applicant has been in the UK with valid permission for 12 months or more.
Salary Requirements for Skilled Worker Visa 2026
The minimum salary for a Skilled Worker Visa in 2026 is £41,700 per year or the going rate for the specific occupation code, whichever is higher. There is also a minimum hourly rate of £17.13. Reduced thresholds apply for new entrants (£33,400), PhD holders (£37,500), and certain roles on the Immigration Salary List.
The Skilled Worker Visa does not have a single flat minimum salary. Instead, the Immigration Rules establish multiple salary "options" with different thresholds and going-rate percentages. The correct option depends on the role, the worker's circumstances (such as new entrant status or PhD qualification), and whether any transitional provisions apply.
2026 Salary Threshold Options
In all cases, the applicant must meet both the general threshold AND the applicable percentage of the going rate for their occupation code—whichever produces the higher figure. The going rate is determined by the SOC code and is published in the going rates tables on gov.uk, updated using ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) data.
Immigration Salary List and Temporary Shortage List
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) contains occupations experiencing shortage, allowing reduced salary and fee benefits. However, the ISL is set to expire on 31 December 2026. The Temporary Shortage List (TSL) was introduced in July 2025 for approximately 52 RQF Level 3-5 roles that would otherwise be ineligible under the new skill requirements. Workers sponsored on TSL roles cannot bring dependants and the list is subject to ongoing review by the Migration Advisory Committee.
How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa UK
The Skilled Worker Visa application process begins after your employer has assigned you a Certificate of Sponsorship. You can apply up to 3 months before your intended start date in the UK. Applications are submitted online through the gov.uk portal.
- Step 1: Receive Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK employer
- Step 2: Complete the online visa application on gov.uk
- Step 3: Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Step 4: Book and attend biometrics appointment (fingerprints and photo)
- Step 5: Submit supporting documents (passport, English evidence, TB test if required)
- Step 6: Wait for decision (3 weeks standard, 5 days priority, next day super priority)
- Step 7: Receive eVisa confirmation and travel to the UK
Required Documents for Skilled Worker Visa
- Valid passport: Must cover the duration of your intended stay
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Reference number from your employer
- English language evidence: Test certificate, degree in English, or nationality exemption
- Financial evidence: Bank statements showing £1,270 (unless employer confirms support)
- TB test results: If from a listed country requiring tuberculosis screening
- Criminal records certificate: Required for certain occupations in health or education
- UK ENIC statement: If degree qualification needs verification for English requirement
Processing Times
The standard visa processing time for Skilled Worker applications is approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for applications made outside the UK, and up to 8 weeks for in-country applications. Priority processing (£500) delivers a decision within 5 working days, while Super Priority (£1,000) aims for next working day decisions.
Skilled Worker Visa UK Fees 2026
The total cost of a Skilled Worker Visa includes several components: the visa application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and employer-paid costs including the Certificate of Sponsorship fee and Immigration Skills Charge. Understanding these UK work visa fees is essential for budgeting your application.
How Much Does a Skilled Worker Visa Cost?
A 3-year Skilled Worker Visa costs £769 plus £3,105 IHS (£1,035 × 3 years) = £3,874 total for the applicant. A 5-year visa costs £1,519 plus £5,175 IHS = £6,694. Additionally, employers pay £525 for the Certificate of Sponsorship and £3,960-£6,600 in Immigration Skills Charge for large sponsors (or £1,440-£2,400 for small sponsors).
Dependants (spouse/partner and children under 18) pay the same visa fees and IHS as the main applicant. The Immigration Skills Charge is not required for ISL occupations, extensions, or when the worker is under 26 on the date of application. For a detailed breakdown of employer costs, see our guide to sponsorship requirements for Skilled Workers.
Working and Living in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa
Once your Skilled Worker Visa is approved, you gain various rights and responsibilities while living in the UK. Understanding these conditions is essential for maintaining your immigration status and planning your future in the country.
What Can You Do on a Skilled Worker Visa?
- Work for your sponsor: In the role specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship
- Take a second job: 20 hours per week in the same SOC code, or any hours on the ISL
- Do voluntary work: Unpaid volunteering is permitted without restrictions
- Study: Any course, provided it doesn't interfere with your sponsored employment
- Bring dependants: Spouse/partner and children under 18 (except TSL workers)
- Travel freely: Enter and leave the UK throughout your visa validity
- Access NHS: Free healthcare through the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Apply for settlement: ILR after 5 years of continuous residence
Can I Change Employers on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, but you must apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa with the new employer before starting work. Your new employer must hold a sponsor licence and issue you a new Certificate of Sponsorship. You cannot work for the new employer until your new visa is approved. If your application is refused, you may need to leave the UK.
When changing employers, your new sponsor must meet all sponsorship requirements including paying the correct salary and ensuring the role meets the skill level requirements. The application process is the same as a new application, including paying full fees and IHS. Time spent on your previous Skilled Worker Visa still counts toward ILR eligibility.
Extending Your Skilled Worker Visa
Skilled Worker Visas can be extended for up to 5 years at a time, with no limit on the number of extensions. To extend, you must still be sponsored by a licensed employer in an eligible role meeting the current requirements. Extension applications are made online from within the UK and typically take up to 8 weeks for a decision. The extension costs are the same as new applications: £769 (≤3 years) or £1,519 (>3 years) plus IHS.
ILR Pathway: Settlement After 5 Years
One of the most significant benefits of the Skilled Worker Visa is the pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—permanent settlement in the UK. This provides security of residence without the need for further visa applications.
What Are the ILR Requirements for Skilled Workers?
To qualify for ILR as a Skilled Worker, you need 5 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK, a minimum salary of £41,700 at the time of settlement, to pass the Life in the UK test, meet English language requirements at B1 level, not be absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period, and have no criminal convictions or adverse immigration history.
- Continuous residence: 5 years in the UK on a qualifying visa route
- Salary requirement: Earning at least £41,700 at the time of ILR application
- Life in the UK test: Pass the British citizenship and settlement test
- English language: B1 level speaking and listening (or CEFR equivalent)
- Absence limits: No more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
- Good character: No unspent criminal convictions or immigration breaches
- Current sponsorship: Still employed by a licensed sponsor at time of application
The ILR application fee is £2,885 per person. Time spent on other qualifying visas (such as Student visa or previous Tier 2 visa) can count toward the 5-year requirement provided there are no gaps exceeding 180 days. For detailed settlement guidance, see our comprehensive guide to Skilled Worker Visa ILR requirements.
- Minimum salary threshold is now £41,700 (increased from £38,700)
- First-time applicants need B2 English (from 8 January 2026)
- Jobs must be at RQF Level 6 (graduate level) unless on ISL/TSL
- Visa fees: £769 (≤3 years) or £1,519 (>3 years) plus £1,035/year IHS
- Immigration Salary List expires 31 December 2026
- Path to ILR after 5 years continuous residence earning £41,700+
For complete information on the official requirements and application process, visit the gov.uk Skilled Worker Visa page and review the Appendix Skilled Worker Immigration Rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum salary for Skilled Worker Visa UK in 2026?
The minimum salary for a Skilled Worker Visa in 2026 is £41,700 per year for most applicants. However, you must also meet the going rate for your specific occupation (at least 100% for standard applicants or 70-80% if you qualify for discounts). New entrants (under 26, switching from Student/Graduate visa) can qualify at the higher of £31,300 or 70% of the going rate.
What is the English language requirement for Skilled Worker Visa?
From 8 January 2026, first-time Skilled Worker applicants must demonstrate B2 English proficiency (equivalent to IELTS 5.5-6.0 in each component). Those extending or switching from another Skilled Worker visa only need B1. You can prove English through a SELT test (IELTS UKVI, PTE Academic, LanguageCert), a degree taught in English, or nationality from a majority English-speaking country.
How long does Skilled Worker Visa processing take?
Standard processing time is approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for applications made outside the UK. In-country applications (extensions or switching) take up to 8 weeks. Priority service (£500 extra) delivers a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority service (£1,000 extra) aims for a decision by the next working day, but availability varies by location.
Can I bring my family on a Skilled Worker Visa UK?
Yes, you can bring your spouse/partner and children under 18 as dependants on a Skilled Worker Visa. Each dependant pays the same visa fee (£769/£1,519) and IHS (£1,035/year). Dependants can work, study, and access the NHS. However, workers sponsored on Temporary Shortage List (TSL) occupations cannot bring dependants. You must prove you can support dependants financially.
What happens if I lose my job on a Skilled Worker Visa?
If your employment ends, your sponsor must report this to the Home Office. You have 60 days from the date your sponsorship is cancelled to find a new sponsor and submit a new visa application, switch to another visa category, or leave the UK. During this period, you cannot work. If you don't take action within 60 days, your visa will be curtailed and you must leave the UK or risk becoming an overstayer.
How much does a Skilled Worker Visa cost in total?
For an applicant, a 3-year Skilled Worker Visa costs £3,874 (£769 visa fee + £3,105 IHS). A 5-year visa costs £6,694 (£1,519 + £5,175 IHS). Employers additionally pay £525 for the Certificate of Sponsorship and £1,320 per year Immigration Skills Charge for large sponsors (£480/year for small sponsors). ISL occupations have reduced visa fees (£590/£1,160) and no ISC.
What is the Immigration Salary List and when does it expire?
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) identifies shortage occupations that receive benefits including reduced visa fees and salary thresholds (80% of the going rate). The ISL is set to expire on 31 December 2026 and may not be renewed. Current ISL occupations include certain health and social care roles, some engineering positions, and specific IT roles. The Temporary Shortage List (TSL) covers approximately 52 RQF 3-5 roles but does not allow dependants.
Can I apply for ILR on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, Skilled Worker Visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK. You must be earning at least £41,700 at the time of your ILR application, pass the Life in the UK test, meet English requirements at B1 level, have no excessive absences (more than 180 days in any 12-month period), and still be sponsored. The ILR application fee is £2,885.