Skilled Worker Visa
The UK's primary work visa route — SOC code assessment, salary calculations, sponsor compliance review, and long-term settlement planning.
The Skilled Worker visa allows overseas nationals to work in eligible roles for a UK employer holding a valid Sponsor Licence. Applicants must have a genuine job offer in an eligible occupation and meet salary, skill, and English language requirements.
Minimum Salary Requirements
For new Skilled Worker applications from outside the UK, the general minimum salary threshold is £41,700 per year (or the occupation "going rate", whichever is higher).
However, lower salary thresholds may apply depending on age, qualifications, immigration history, and the occupation code. There is no universal reduced figure — each case must be assessed individually.
Skill Level — RQF Explained
RQF 6 (Degree-Level Roles)
- Engineers, Architects, Software Developers
- Researchers, Medical professionals
- Stronger settlement prospects under future framework
RQF 3–5 (Medium-Skilled Roles)
- Hospitality managers, Retail supervisors
- May face higher salary thresholds under reforms
- Restricted settlement pathways possible
Home Office Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa application | £769 – £1,519 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035/year |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | £525 (paid by employer) |
| Immigration Skills Charge | £480 – £1,320/year (paid by employer) |
Settlement (ILR)
Under current rules: ILR after 5 years of continuous lawful residence.
Under proposed Earned Settlement Framework (from 2026):
- Standard qualifying period may increase to 10 years
- Earlier qualification (5 years) for highly skilled / high income roles
- Medium-skilled roles may face ILR after up to 15 years
- Higher English language requirements (B2)
How We Help
- Occupation code and RQF level assessment
- Accurate salary threshold calculation
- Sponsor compliance review
- Visa application preparation
- Dependant applications
- Switching employer strategy
- Extension and settlement planning
- White Paper impact analysis