What is a Skilled Worker Visa? Complete UK Guide 2026

The Skilled Worker Visa is the cornerstone of the UK’s Points-Based Immigration System and the main route for overseas nationals to come to work in the United Kingdom. In this complete guide, our immigration solicitors in Bolton explain everything you need to know about the Skilled Worker Visa in 2026.

What is the Skilled Worker Visa?

Launched in December 2020 as a replacement for the Tier 2 (General) work visa, the Skilled Worker Visa allows UK employers to recruit workers from outside the UK for eligible skilled roles. The visa sits within the broader Points-Based System and requires applicants to accumulate a minimum number of points by meeting certain mandatory and tradeable criteria.

Key Changes in 2025 and 2026

The 2025 Immigration White Paper, Restoring Control over the Immigration System, introduced significant changes to the Skilled Worker route. Most notably:

• The skill level threshold was raised to RQF Level 6 (degree level) — medium-skilled roles at RQF Levels 3–5 were largely removed
• The general salary threshold increased to £38,700 per year
• The Shortage Occupation List was replaced with the Immigration Salary List with different discount rules
• The qualifying period for ILR remains 5 years

Points Requirements

Applicants must score at least 70 points. The following criteria are assessed:

• Mandatory (50 points): valid job offer from a licensed sponsor, role at required skill level, English language at B1 CEFR
• Tradeable (20 points): meeting the salary threshold, being in a shortage occupation, or holding a relevant PhD

Eligible Occupations

Eligible occupations are defined by Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes. Your employer must check that the role falls within an eligible code at the appropriate skill level. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) regularly reviews and updates the list.

Application Process Step by Step

1. Your employer obtains a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) via the Sponsorship Management System
2. You apply online via the UKVI portal using your CoS reference number
3. You pay the visa fee (currently £719–£1,423 depending on duration) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year)
4. You attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre
5. Decision is typically made within 3–8 weeks

Health and Care Worker Visa

Workers in eligible health and care roles — including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and social workers — can apply via the Health and Care Worker Visa. This offers reduced fees and is processed faster than the standard Skilled Worker route.

Bringing Family Members

Skilled Worker visa holders can bring their spouse, civil partner or dependent children to the UK as dependants, subject to financial requirements. Changes announced in 2024 tightened the income threshold for dependants.

Path to Settlement

After 5 years of continuous qualifying employment in the UK under the Skilled Worker route, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Following ILR, you may then become eligible for British citizenship by naturalisation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change employers on a Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, but you must obtain a new CoS from your new employer and update your visa before starting the new job. Working for an unlicensed sponsor or outside your visa conditions is a serious immigration breach.

What happens if I am made redundant?

You have a 60-day grace period to find a new sponsor or leave the UK. Acting quickly and seeking legal advice is essential in this situation.

Can I work part-time on a Skilled Worker Visa?

Generally, you must work the hours specified in your CoS. Switching to part-time without updating your visa conditions is a breach.