Skilled Worker Visa

Skilled Worker Visa replaces the old Tier (2) visas.

Under the new skilled worker system, anyone coming to the UK to work will need to demonstrate that:

they have a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor
the job offer is at the required skill level – RQF 3 or above (A Level and equivalent)
they speak English to the required standard

The job must offer a salary of £25,600 or higher, or the specific salary requirement for their occupation, known as the “going rate

If the job offer is less than the minimum salary requirement, but no less than £20,480, an applicant may still be eligible if they have:

a job offer in a specific shortage occupation
a PhD relevant to the job
a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job

There are different salary rules for workers in certain health or education jobs, and for “new entrants” at the start of their careers.

A Skilled Worker visa allows you to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer.

You need 70 points to be able to apply under Skilled Worker Category.


Points Table


  • Offer of job by approved sponsor Points - 20
  • Job at appropriate skill level Points - 20
  • Speaks English at required level Points - 10
  • Salary of £23,040 to £25,599 Points - 10
  • Salary of £25,600 or above Points - 20
  • Job in a shortage occupation Points - 20
  • PhD in a subject relevant to the job Points - 10
  • PhD in a STEM subject Points - 20

You can bring your family as your dependants with you.

Skilled Worker Visa route leads you to the permanent settlement in the UK at the completion of five years in the UK.