Work, Business & Talent Visas
Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is the UK's main sponsored work route. It lets an approved employer hire someone from overseas for an eligible job that meets the salary and skill requirements.
What the Skilled Worker Visa is
The Skilled Worker route replaced Tier 2 (General). It lets a licensed UK sponsor employ a worker from outside the resident labour market for a genuine, eligible job.
The visa can lead to settlement, and family members can usually join the main applicant. It is the route most UK employers use to fill roles they cannot fill locally.
Who qualifies
You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor, at the required skill level, paid at or above the salary threshold for the role.
A sponsored job
A genuine job with a UK employer that holds a valid sponsor licence.
Skill level
The role must sit at or above the required skill level (RQF level 3 or higher for most roles).
Salary
You must be paid at or above the general threshold or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher.
English
You must show English language ability at the required level.
How Cromwell Wilkes helps
We advise on eligibility, check the salary and skill fit, prepare the application and evidence, and liaise with your sponsor so the case is right the first time.
For employers, we also advise on the sponsor licence and Certificate of Sponsorship so the whole hire is compliant from the start.
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers to what clients ask us most. Still unsure? Book a free consultation and we will talk it through.
Book a free consultationYes. After a continuous qualifying period on the route, most Skilled Workers can apply for indefinite leave to remain, subject to meeting the requirements at the time.
In most cases your partner and children under 18 can apply as your dependants and live, work or study in the UK.
Yes. You need a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsor licence before you can apply.
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