A UK work visa enables individuals from outside the UK to legally work in the country. The type of work visa required depends on factors such as the applicant's skills, qualifications, and job offer.

 

For skilled workers, the most common route is the Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2), which requires sponsorship from a UK employer and a job offer for a role that cannot be filled by a resident worker.

 

Other work visa categories include the Intra-Company Transfer visa for multinational companies transferring employees to the UK, the Health and Care Worker visa for healthcare professionals, and the Global Talent visa for individuals recognized as leaders or emerging leaders in their field.

 

Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements, which may include proof of English language proficiency, maintenance funds, and a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved sponsor.

 

Once granted, the work visa allows individuals to live and work in the UK for the duration specified on their visa, with the possibility of extending or switching to another visa category in the future with an option to settle in as well.

 

You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply.

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To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must:

• work for a UK employer that’s been approved by the Home Office

• have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer with information about the role you’ve been offered in the UK

• do a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations

• be paid a minimum salary - how much depends on the type of work you do

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You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship.

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As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents. You may need to allow extra time if you need an appointment to do this. You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.

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Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within:

• 3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK

• 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision. How you do this depends on whether you’re outside the UK or inside the UK.

 

You cannot:

• apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension

• change jobs or employer unless you apply to update your visa

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