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UK Worker Visa Information | UK Work Permits

UK Work Visa Information

Everything you need to know about working in the United Kingdom. Find the right visa for your skills and circumstances.

UK Work Visa Types

Choose the appropriate visa category based on your skills and employment situation.

Skilled Worker Visa

For qualified professionals with a job offer from a UK employer.

Salary Requirement

£26,200+ or the 'going rate' for your job

Duration

Up to 5 years, extendable

Settlement

Path to ILR after 5 years

Health & Care Visa

For qualified doctors, nurses and health professionals

Benefits

Reduced fees, fast-track processing

Eligibility

NHS job offer or approved employer

Dependents

Family can join with work rights

Global Talent Visa

For leaders or potential leaders in academia, arts, tech

Eligibility

Endorsement from approved body

Benefits

No job offer required

Duration

Up to 5 years, settlement possible

General Requirements

Common requirements for most UK work visas

Job Offer

From a licensed UK employer

Certificate of Sponsorship from employer

Job must be at appropriate skill level

Salary meets minimum threshold

Financial

Proof of financial means

£1,270 in savings for 28 days (unless fully sponsored)

Bank statements or letter from bank

Additional funds for dependents

Other Requirements

Additional documentation

English language proficiency (CEFR B1)

Valid passport or travel document

TB test results if from listed country

Application Process

Step-by-step guide to applying for a UK work visa

1

Check Eligibility

Confirm you meet all requirements for your chosen visa

2

Secure Job Offer

Obtain Certificate of Sponsorship from UK employer

3

Prepare Documents

Gather all required evidence including financial proof

4

Apply Online

Complete application form and pay fees

5

Biometrics

Attend visa application centre for biometrics

6

Decision

Receive decision within 3 weeks (standard service)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about UK work visas

How long does a UK work visa take to process?

Processing times vary depending on the visa type and where you apply from:

  • Skilled Worker Visa: 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK
  • Priority Service: 5 working days (additional fee)
  • Super Priority Service: Next working day (additional fee)
  • Health & Care Visa: Typically processed faster than standard work visas

Processing times begin when you attend your biometrics appointment. Always check current processing times on the GOV.UK website.

Can I bring my family on a UK work visa?

Yes, most UK work visas allow you to bring dependents (spouse/partner and children under 18):

  • Skilled Worker Visa: Dependents can apply with full work/study rights
  • Financial Requirement: Additional £285 for partner, £315 for first child, £200 for each additional child
  • Application: Dependents can apply at the same time or join you later
  • Global Talent Visa: Dependents have full work rights

Your family members will need to meet certain requirements and pay separate application fees.

What is the minimum salary for a UK work visa?

The salary requirements depend on the visa type and your job:

  • General threshold: £26,200 per year or the 'going rate' for your job (whichever is higher)
  • Health & Care Visa: £20,480 or the going rate (whichever is higher)
  • Shortage Occupation: 80% of the going rate may apply
  • New Entrants: 70% of the going rate may apply for certain applicants

Some jobs have higher salary thresholds. Check the eligible occupations list for specific rates.

Can I switch jobs on a UK work visa?

Yes, but there are important rules:

  • Skilled Worker Visa: You must apply to update your visa with your new employer's details
  • New Certificate: Your new employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship
  • Same Visa: You can start the new job once you've applied (if same SOC code)
  • Different Job: May need to wait for visa approval if changing occupation codes
  • Global Talent Visa: No restrictions on changing jobs

Always check your visa conditions before changing employment to avoid violating immigration rules.

How do I qualify for permanent residency (ILR)?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) requirements:

  • Time in UK: Typically 5 years on a work visa (some routes are faster)
  • Continuous Residence: No single absence over 180 days, maximum 540 days total in 5 years
  • Salary: Must meet current threshold at time of application
  • English Language: B1 level if not already proven
  • Life in UK Test: Must pass this citizenship test
  • Global Talent Visa: Can qualify for ILR after 3 years in some cases

ILR allows you to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions.

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