The UK Skilled Worker Visa is designed for skilled professionals who wish to live and work in the United Kingdom. However, not everyone is eligible to apply. To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet several key requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria that you need to fulfill to qualify for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.
1. Job Offer from a UK Employer
Requirement:
You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is licensed by the UK Home Office to sponsor foreign workers.
Details:
- Approved Employer: The job offer must come from an employer who holds a valid sponsorship license from the UK government.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship, a unique reference number containing details about the job and your role.
2. Job at an Appropriate Skill Level
Requirement:
The job you’ve been offered must be at or above the required skill level of RQF level 3 (equivalent to A-level qualifications in the UK).
Details:
- Eligible Occupations: The job must be on the list of eligible occupations published by the UK government. This includes a wide range of professions, from IT and engineering to healthcare and education.
- Skill Assessment: The role must involve tasks and responsibilities that require a specific skill set that meets the RQF level 3 standard or higher.
3. Salary Threshold
Requirement:
Your job must meet the minimum salary requirement, which varies depending on the role and your circumstances.
Details:
- General Minimum Salary: The general threshold is £26,200 per year or the ‘going rate’ for your specific occupation, whichever is higher.
- Lower Salary Options: Some roles, such as those on the shortage occupation list or for applicants under 26, may have a lower salary threshold.
- Exemptions: Certain jobs may qualify for a reduced salary requirement if they meet other specific criteria.
4. English Language Proficiency
Requirement:
You must demonstrate proficiency in the English language at a B1 level or higher on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.
Details:
- Approved English Tests: You can prove your English proficiency by passing an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS) with the required score.
- Educational Qualifications: If you hold a degree taught in English, this can also satisfy the language requirement.
- Exemptions: Nationals from majority English-speaking countries (e.g., the USA, Canada, Australia) are exempt from this requirement.
5. Maintenance Funds
Requirement:
You must have enough money to support yourself when you arrive in the UK unless your employer certifies this requirement on your behalf.
Details:
- Financial Evidence: You need to show that you have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying, unless exempt.
- Employer Support: If your UK employer is willing to cover your maintenance costs, they can confirm this in the Certificate of Sponsorship.
Steps (you can do this yourself), if you need help speak to Happy Face
6. Other Essential Criteria
6.1 Valid Passport and Travel Documents
You must have a valid passport or other travel document to prove your identity and nationality.
6.2 Criminal Record Certificate
If your job involves working with vulnerable people, such as in healthcare or education, you may be required to provide a criminal record certificate from any country where you’ve lived for more than 12 months in the past 10 years.
6.3 Tuberculosis (TB) Test
Applicants from certain countries may need to undergo a tuberculosis test if they are coming to the UK for more than six months.
Steps (you can do this yourself), if you need help speak to Happy Face
7. Points-Based Assessment
Requirement:
You need to score a minimum of 70 points to be eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Points Breakdown:
- Job Offer from an Approved Sponsor: 20 points
- Job at an Appropriate Skill Level: 20 points
- English Language Proficiency: 10 points
- Salary: Points vary based on salary (minimum 20 points for a qualifying salary)
Additional points can be earned for:
- Job in a Shortage Occupation: 20 points
- Holding a PhD relevant to the job: 10-20 points
Steps (you can do this yourself), if you need help speak to Happy Face
Conclusion
Meeting the eligibility criteria for a UK Skilled Worker Visa is essential to ensure a successful application. From having a valid job offer and meeting the skill and salary thresholds to proving your English proficiency and maintenance funds, each requirement plays a critical role in your visa approval. Understanding these criteria will help you prepare a strong application, increasing your chances of obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa and starting your career in the UK.
Related Post:
UK Skilled Workers Shortage List
Who Are Skilled Workers In the UK
What Skilled Workers Are Needed in the UK
