The UK’s Skilled Worker Visa, also known as the Tier 2 Visa, is one of the most accessible and reliable pathways to work and settle in the UK. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years, with the option to apply for permanent residency afterward. It offers numerous benefits, including the ability to bring your family, engage in voluntary work, travel in and out of the UK, and more. In response to workforce shortages exacerbated by the pandemic, the UK government has updated its skills shortage list, adding some professions and increasing salary thresholds for various job roles. This guide will provide you with all the essential details about securing skilled worker jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship, including the application process.
Contents
- 1 Overview of Skilled Worker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
- 2 Education and Experience Requirements for UK Skilled Worker Jobs
- 3 General Requirements for the UK Skilled Worker Visa
- 4 Eligibility for Skilled Worker Jobs in the UK
- 5 Costs Associated with the UK Skilled Worker Visa
- 6 Minimum Salary for a UK Skilled Worker
- 7 Average Salary for Skilled Workers in the UK
- 8 Duration of Stay on a UK Skilled Worker Visa
- 9 Occupations on the UK Skills Shortage List
- 10 How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
- 11 Finding Skilled Worker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
Overview of Skilled Worker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
- Job Location: United Kingdom (UK)
- Visa Type: Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2 Visa)
- Stay Duration: Up to 5 years, with the possibility of renewal
- Salary Range: £10-£22 per hour
Education and Experience Requirements for UK Skilled Worker Jobs
To qualify for a job under the Skilled Worker Visa, you generally need a relevant diploma or at least a bachelor’s degree in your field. Experience requirements can range from 0-2 years, depending on the profession. For trade jobs like bakers or carpenters, a minimum of 2 years of experience is usually required. For educated roles such as care workers, 2 years of experience is also typical. However, some lower-skilled jobs, like support or charity workers, may not require any prior experience.
General Requirements for the UK Skilled Worker Visa
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must:
- Have a valid job offer from a UK-approved employer.
- Obtain a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer detailing your role in the UK.
- Ensure that your job is listed on the eligible occupations list.
- Be paid the minimum required salary for your position.
Eligibility for Skilled Worker Jobs in the UK
Applicants from all nationalities are welcome to apply, including those from countries like Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Ghana, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Cameroon, Trinidad, and Tobago.
Costs Associated with the UK Skilled Worker Visa
If applying from outside the UK, the standard application fee for a Skilled Worker Visa is:
- Up to 3 years: £719 per person
- More than 3 years: £1,423 per person
Additionally, you will need to:
- Pay an application fee ranging from £625 to £1,423, depending on your circumstances.
- Pay the healthcare surcharge, which is typically £624 per year.
- Have at least £1,270 available to support yourself upon arrival, unless exempt.
Minimum Salary for a UK Skilled Worker
The salary requirements vary depending on the occupation, but as a general guideline:
- Up to 3 years: £479 per year
- More than 3 years: £943 per year
For jobs listed in the Shortage Occupation List, the application fees are:
- Up to 3 years: £479
- More than 3 years: £943
Average Salary for Skilled Workers in the UK
Salaries for skilled workers in the UK can vary widely depending on education, experience, and the specific employer. However, on average, skilled workers can expect to earn between £11.79 and £22.99 per hour.
Duration of Stay on a UK Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 5 years. After this period, you can either apply for a visa extension or pursue permanent residency.
Occupations on the UK Skills Shortage List
The UK Skills Shortage List includes a variety of trade and professional roles, such as hairdressers, bakers, carpenters, electricians, senior management positions, and healthcare professionals. For a full list of eligible occupations, you can visit the UK government’s official website.
Related: Unskilled Jobs in Netherlands With Visa Sponsorship 2024
How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, you can start your application on the UK government’s official website. However, it’s crucial to secure a job offer from a sponsored employer before applying.
Finding Skilled Worker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
To find employers offering visa sponsorship for skilled worker roles, you can explore various job portals, including:
Conclusion
The Skilled Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity for professionals seeking to live and work in the UK. With hundreds of job roles available and competitive salaries starting at £10.75 per hour, this visa route is one of the most affordable and effective ways to secure a permanent future in the UK. Whether you’re in a trade or a professional field, upgrading your skills and education can open the door to a prosperous career in the UK.