UK Skilled Worker Visa:
Career Growth in Britain

The general threshold is £41,700 per year, but you must be paid the higher of this or the specific 'going rate' for your SOC code.

As of 2026, the minimum hourly rate is £17.13.

It's a 4-digit Standard Occupational Classification code that defines your job's skill level and required salary.

Yes, you can switch if you have a job offer and a CoS. Students often qualify for 'New Entrant' salary discounts.

It can be issued for up to 5 years, after which you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

It's a mandatory fee that gives you access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS). It's approximately £776 per year for students and £1,035 for workers.

Yes, your spouse and children (under 18) can apply as your dependents.

A Defined CoS is for people applying from outside the UK. Your employer must apply for it for each specific role.

An Undefined CoS is for people already in the UK switching from another visa category.

Yes, if you are a resident of a listed country (including India) and coming for more than 6 months.

No, you are generally tied to the sponsor who issued your CoS. You can do 20 hours of 'supplementary work' in an eligible role.

You have 60 days to find a new sponsor or leave the UK once your sponsorship is curtailed.

There is no upper age limit, but you must be at least 18.

If your employer is an A-rated sponsor, they can tick a box on your CoS stating they will cover your costs for the first month.

Standard processing is 3 weeks (outside UK) or 8 weeks (inside UK). Priority services are available for 5-day or 24-hour decisions.

You need to pass an approved SELT at B1 level in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Yes, if your degree was taught in English and is recognized by Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC).

It's a list of occupations with a shortage of workers, allowing for a 20% lower salary threshold (minimum £33,400).

You need 70 points: 50 from 'Mandatory' criteria (Job, Skill, English) and 20 from 'Tradable' criteria (Salary/PhD).

If the SOC code changes, you must apply for a new visa even if you stay with the same employer.

New entrants (e.g., graduates) can be paid 70-90% of the going rate for up to 4 years.

If you need to show savings, the money must have been in your account for 28 consecutive days before you apply.

Only if you are working in education, healthcare, or social services.

Required for certain research roles in sensitive subjects like aeronautics or nuclear physics.

Yes, after 5 years on this visa, you can apply for ILR, and after 1 year of ILR, you can apply for British Citizenship.