VISA TYPE:Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa allows overseas nationals to work in the UK in a sponsored role that meets defined skill and salary thresholds. It is the UK’s main long-term work route and can lead to settlement.
Applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer holding a valid Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence. The role must be genuine, meet the required skill level, and be paid at or above the applicable salary threshold. Applicants must also meet English language and suitability requirements.
Recruitment under the Skilled Worker route is strongest in sectors with sustained skills shortages. These commonly include health and social care, engineering and construction, IT and digital roles, education, financial and professional services, and technical or scientific occupations. Eligibility depends on the specific role and how it aligns with the Immigration Rules, rather than the sector alone.
Many applicants are already in the UK and may be eligible to switch into the Skilled Worker route. Switching is commonly possible from routes such as Student, Graduate, Youth Mobility and some work visas. Switching is not permitted from certain short-term or visitor routes. Timing, immigration status and compliance history are key factors.
Basic eligibility typically includes:
A valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued for the correct role
A role meeting the minimum skill level
Salary meeting the applicable threshold or permitted discount
English language at the required level
Sufficient maintenance, where not certified by the sponsor
Suitability is assessed separately. The Home Office considers immigration history, compliance with previous visa conditions, and general grounds such as criminality or deception. Most issues arise from technical errors or misalignment between the role, salary and sponsorship details rather than a lack of labour demand.
We support applicants by carrying out a structured suitability and route assessment before any application work begins. This allows us to confirm whether switching is permitted, whether the Skilled Worker route is appropriate, and whether any risks need to be addressed early.
Support includes:
Initial suitability and switching assessment
Advice on Skilled Worker eligibility requirements
Review of role details, occupation codes and salary thresholds
Guidance on supporting documentation
Application preparation and submission
Guidance on biometrics and next steps
Dependant advice, where applicable
We act independently of employers and do not provide sponsorship. Our role is to help applicants understand their options, assess suitability realistically, and prepare applications that meet current Home Office expectations.
Can I switch into a Skilled Worker Route?
You may be able to switch into the Skilled Worker route from within the UK if you already hold valid leave and meet the route requirements.
Switching is commonly permitted from routes such as:
Student
Graduate
Youth Mobility Scheme
Some existing work visas
Switching is not permitted from certain routes, including Visitor, Short-term Student and some temporary or concessionary visas.
Eligibility depends on your current immigration status, the timing of the application, and whether you continue to comply with your existing visa conditions up to the point of decision.
We carry out a switching and suitability check before proceeding, to confirm that switching is permitted, the role is eligible, and the Skilled Worker route is appropriate in your circumstances.
Take the first step today.
Whether you need expert guidance or have questions about your options, book a consultation today and get clear, trusted advice.