Skilled Worker Visa
Work Legally in the UK with Licensed Employer Sponsorship
Legate Hub assists professionals and UK employers with Skilled Worker Visa applications, Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), and full compliance under the UK Points-Based System.
Overview
The Skilled Worker Visa enables qualified individuals to work in the UK for an approved sponsor. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) route and forms a key part of the Points-Based Immigration System. Legate Hub provides end-to-end guidance for both applicants and sponsoring employers, ensuring all requirements — from job codes to salary thresholds — are accurately met before submission.
Eligibility Requirements
- You must have a valid job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office to sponsor Skilled Workers.
- The job must be genuine, skilled to at least RQF Level 3, and on the list of eligible occupation codes.
- You must hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with details of your role, salary, and sponsor licence number.
- The salary must meet the minimum threshold — usually £38,700 or the ‘going rate’ for your occupation (whichever is higher). Lower thresholds apply to certain shortage or health roles.
- You must meet the English language requirement (at least B1 CEFR level).
- You must have sufficient funds to support yourself on arrival unless your employer certifies maintenance on your CoS.
- You must not fall for refusal under the general immigration grounds (e.g. prior overstaying, criminal history, or deception).
Points Allocation
The Skilled Worker Visa operates on a points-based system. Applicants must score a total of 70 points, combining mandatory and tradeable elements:
| Requirement | Points |
|---|---|
| Job offer from licensed sponsor | 20 |
| Job at appropriate skill level (RQF3+) | 20 |
| English language (B1 CEFR) | 10 |
| Salary level (tradeable points) | 20 |
| Additional tradeable factors (shortage occupation, PhD, new entrant, health/education role) | Variable |
Required Documents
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
- Valid passport and previous travel documents.
- Proof of English language proficiency (approved test or degree certificate).
- Proof of funds (bank statements or maintenance certified by employer).
- TB test certificate (if required).
- Police clearance certificate (if required for the occupation).
- Job offer letter and employment contract.
- Academic or professional qualifications relevant to the role.
Application Process
- Step 1 – Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer issues a CoS after confirming job eligibility and salary level.
- Step 2 – Document Preparation: Gather required evidence and verify that your CoS details match your supporting documents. Legate Hub assists in reviewing all materials for accuracy.
- Step 3 – Online Application & Fees: Complete the visa form, pay the Home Office fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and book a biometric appointment.
- Step 4 – Biometrics & Decision: Attend your appointment and submit biometrics. The Home Office assesses the application and issues a visa vignette for travel if approved.
- Step 5 – Arrival & Residence Card: Upon arrival, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or digital immigration status within 10 days.
Processing Times
| Application Type | Typical Timeframe* |
|---|---|
| Standard (outside the UK) | 3 weeks from biometric appointment |
| Priority / Super Priority | 5 working days or next-day decision (additional fee) |
| In-country Switch / Extension | 8 weeks |
*Legate Hub monitors application progress and liaises with the Home Office to ensure timely resolution.
Apply through Legate Hub – Start Your Skilled Worker Visa Application
Dependants & Family Members
Skilled Worker Visa holders can bring dependants (spouse, partner, and children under 18) to the UK. Each dependant must meet maintenance requirements and apply separately. Legate Hub assists with dependent applications to ensure full compliance and concurrent decision timelines.
Extensions & Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After five continuous years under the Skilled Worker route, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Legate Hub verifies eligibility, residence history, absences, and salary consistency to prepare a compliant settlement application.
Download Application Resources
- Skilled Worker Visa Checklist (PDF)
- English Language Requirement Guide (PDF)
- Sample Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Template (PDF)
Use these templates to prepare your application documents. Legate Hub will review and finalise them before online submission.
Why Choose Legate Hub
Legate Hub’s business immigration team offers precise, legally compliant advice to both employers and employees under the Skilled Worker route. We ensure every stage — from CoS issuance to visa decision — meets Home Office standards for accuracy and compliance.
Book a Consultation
Work in the UK with confidence. Contact Legate Hub today to start your Skilled Worker Visa application or employer sponsorship assessment.