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Skilled Worker Visa

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Skilled Worker Visa UK Build Your Career in the UK with Smart Move Immigration

Why the Skilled Worker Visa Matters

The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most popular UK immigration routes, allowing non-UK residents to live and work in the UK with a licensed employer. This visa is essential for individuals with the qualifications and experience to fill roles on the UK's shortage occupation list or within approved industries such as healthcare, engineering, IT, and education.

At Smart Move Immigration, we understand how crucial this visa is for professionals aiming to expand their horizons. Whether you're an overseas nurse, software developer, or civil engineer, our team is committed to helping you secure your future in the UK through strategic visa planning and end-to-end legal support.

Who is Eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa?


To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who holds a sponsor licence. The role must meet the minimum salary threshold and be listed under eligible occupations. English language proficiency and maintenance funds are also essential requirements.

Smart Move Immigration works closely with clients to assess eligibility and guide them through every compliance requirement. From matching you with the correct SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code to helping employers navigate sponsorship duties, we offer holistic support that simplifies the visa process.

Fill In The
Required Form

Start your application by completing our Sponsor Licence Assessment Form. This helps us understand your business type, hiring goals, and eligibility status.

Submit Your
Original Documents

Once the initial form is reviewed, our solicitors will request the mandatory documentation required by the Home Office.

Get The Visa
Resource Material

After your licence is approved, we’ll provide you with our exclusive Visa Resource Material Pack. This includes step-by-step guidance.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa

The application process starts with receiving a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer. Once the CoS is issued, you can submit an online visa application, pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and attend a biometric appointment. Decisions typically take 3 weeks for applications outside the UK.

Smart Move Immigration ensures no step is missed. We support you in preparing accurate documentation, verifying sponsorship details, and advising on dependants and timelines. Our proactive communication with both applicants and sponsors reduces the chances of delays or refusals.

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Benefits of the UK Skilled Worker Visa

  • The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to work legally in the UK, change employers under specific conditions, and bring your dependants with you. After five years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later for British Citizenship, making this route an excellent long-term solution.
  • At Smart Move Immigration, we help you not just with your initial visa, but with your long-term immigration goals. We provide personalized ILR strategies, guidance on switching visa categories, and support for family reunification under the Skilled Worker Dependant Visa pathway.

How Employers Benefit from Skilled Worker Sponsorship

For UK employers, sponsoring overseas talent helps fill critical skill gaps and maintain a competitive edge. Sponsoring a skilled worker also ensures compliance with UKVI regulations and strengthens diversity in the workplace.

Our legal experts at Smart Move Immigration provide Sponsor Licence application support, HR compliance training, and ongoing legal advice to help businesses maintain their sponsor status. We also help employers understand their obligations, including record-keeping and right-to-work checks.

Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa from Inside the UK

If you're already in the UK on a valid visa such as a Student Visa or Tier 2 (General), you may be eligible to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa without leaving the country. This switch offers greater job security and a clearer path to settlement.

We help you confirm eligibility, gather correct documentation, and liaise with your sponsoring employer to submit a flawless application. Our legal advisors ensure the switch is smooth, lawful, and aligned with your long-term immigration goals.

Frequently asked Questions

  • How long is the Skilled Worker Visa valid?

    It is typically granted for up to 5 years and can be extended or used to apply for settlement.

  • Can I bring my family with me?

    Yes, partners and children under 18 can apply as your dependants.

  • What is the minimum salary requirement?

    Usually £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, but it varies by role.

  • Can I change jobs on a Skilled Worker Visa?

    Yes, but you must update your visa with a new Certificate of Sponsorship.

  • Does this visa lead to permanent residency?

    Yes, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years if you meet the requirements.