​​Replacing the Tier 2 (General) work visa, the Skilled Worker visa enables individuals to work in the UK with a Home Office-approved employer.  

While this visa route can lead to settlement, your partner and children can also apply to join you as dependants.

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Here are some of the basic requirements which must be met:

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• You must have a confirmed job offer, where the job itself is eligible for this visa.

• You have a certificate of sponsorship from the UK employer for the job.

• The UK employer is on the Home Office approved list, which can be viewed here. Employers currently not on the list can apply for a sponsor licence.

• The job salary is at least £25,600 per year or £10.10 per hour, and also at least at the ‘going rate’ for the occupation.  There are, however, some exceptions, such as when the job is in a shortage occupation.  The salary rules are also different for some healthcare or education jobs.

The visa can last for up to 5 years.  When changing jobs or employer, you must apply for extension or updating the visa.  

After 5 years, you may then be able to apply for settlement.