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Immigration Services

Skilled Worker Visa Application

‘Expert Advice on UK Skilled Worker Visas Under the Sponsorship Licence Route’ 

Our experienced London-based immigration solicitors specialise in UK business immigration law, helping individuals and companies obtain sponsor licences and hire skilled international talent under the ‘Skilled Worker and Global Business Mobility’ visa routes. We provide tailored immigration support to businesses and professionals across a wide range of sectors — including technology, creative industries, and entertainment.

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Skilled Worked Visa Applications

What are Skilled Worker Visa Applications?

The UK Skilled Worker visa enables qualified professionals to live and work in the UK long-term for an approved, licensed sponsor. Introduced to replace Tier 2 (General), this route requires a certificate of sponsorship and employment in an eligible occupation that meets updated salary and going-rate rules. Following 2025 reforms, roles must now be at RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or above, and applicants must meet higher salary thresholds, reflecting the latest Immigration rules.

Before proceeding with your application, there are a few conditions and requirements you must meet:

  • Work for a UK employer that has been approved by the Home Office
  • Have a “Certificate of Sponsorship” from your employer
  • Be paid a minimum salary listed on the eligible occupation codes.
  • You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English to a degree level.

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How can Ronald Fletcher Baker help?

At Ronald Fletcher Baker, our highly experienced team of London-based immigration solicitors have built a strong reputation for delivering tailored, results-driven advice to businesses and individuals navigating the UK’s complex immigration landscape. We are proud to be a trusted partner for organisations across a wide range of sectors—including tech, finance, education, and entertainment—who rely on our expertise to meet their workforce and compliance needs.  

Our solicitors have extensive experience in managing Skilled Worker Visa applications and renewals from start to finish. We are also well-versed in handling all types of business immigration issues such as advising on sponsor licence applications, TUPE transfers, changes of business ownership, and more generally, ensuring our clients remain compliant with the ever-changing Home Office policy guidance for UK sponsors.  With a client-focused approach and a deep understanding of business immigration law, we provide sector-specific solutions designed to support the long-term success of your business in the UK. 

 

Key Immigration Team Contacts

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Beatrice De Burgh

Associate Solicitor

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Mohammed Abukar

Senior Associate Solicitor

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What is a Skilled Worker Visa?

Typically granted for up to five years, the Skilled Worker Visa can be renewed or extended, allowing applicants to build a long-term future in the UK. After five continuous years, you may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later, British citizenship.

Your visa remains valid as long as you stay in your sponsored role; however, if you change jobs or employers, our expert solicitors can guide you through a smooth and compliant visa transfer process.

To qualify, you’ll need a confirmed job offer from a UK employer holding a valid sponsor licence. You may also be able to bring your partner and children to join you in the UK, making it an ideal route for those looking to establish both career and family life here.

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Skilled Worker Visa 2025/2026 Reforms: What You Need to Know

The Skilled Worker visa remains the main route for overseas professionals to work in the UK, but the 2025 reforms significantly raised salary and skill thresholds. Applicants must now meet stricter requirements.

Looking ahead, further reforms are expected in 2026, including proposals to increase the settlement route from 5 years to a longer qualifying period. This means Skilled Worker visa holders may need to remain in the UK for more than 5 years before becoming eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). These upcoming changes highlight the importance of planning ahead and seeking expert guidance to understand how evolving rules may affect your long‑term immigration journey.

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FAQS

Your frequently asked questions

The Skilled Worker visa allows qualified professionals to live and work in the UK for an approved, licensed sponsor. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa.  
Applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is approved by the Home Office, in an eligible occupation.
As of July 2025, roles must meet RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or above, raising the threshold from the previous RQF Level 3 requirement
The minimum salary threshold is now the higher of £41,700, or the minimum salary for the particular UK Government job code. Sometimes lower thresholds may apply, for example, in some health and social care roles.
Yes. Applicants must demonstrate English language ability through testing, qualifications, or nationality. The level of English required is changing from B1 to C1.
You must apply online, provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer, and submit supporting documents such as proof of identity, qualifications, and financial evidence.
Fees vary depending on whether you apply from inside or outside the UK, and the length of your visa. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Skilled Worker visas are typically granted for up to 5 years.
Yes, you can extend your visa or switch to another immigration category if eligible.
Yes, partners and children can apply as dependants. However, new rules in 2025 introduced stricter eligibility for dependants, particularly for certain job categories.
Yes, after 5 years of continuous residence, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you meet the requirements.

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