UK Visa

How to Get a Skilled Worker Visa in 2025?

If you’re planning to move to the UK for work or are planning to change your job while you are on a Skilled Worker Visa, one of the most popular and reliable immigration routes is the UK Skilled Worker visa. On 22nd July 2025, the Government published the updated requirements for the Skilled Worker visa in the UK. Whether you’re already in the UK or applying from abroad, understanding the requirements and process is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Skilled Worker visa in 2025—eligibility, salary thresholds, exceptions, application steps, and tips to avoid scams.

What Is a Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker visa (previously known as the Tier 2 visa) allows non-UK nationals to work in eligible skilled roles offered by Home Office-approved employers. This visa is valid for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extension or applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

It is one of the most commonly used long-term UK work visas and is suitable for individuals working in industries such as IT, engineering, education, finance, construction, and more.

Note: Although a Skilled Worker visa can last up to 5 years, the actual validity of the visa, when issued, can vary from several months to 5 years, depending on the role and the situation of the applicant. For example, if you are joining a graduate programme for 2 years, the visa may initially be issued for 2 years. The visa can be extended before the expiry date if you continue to be employed.

Skilled Worker Visa Requirements (Updated for 2025)

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Job Offer from a Licensed UK Sponsor

You need a job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office. All listings on UK Visa Jobs are from verified and sponsor-approved employers, so you can apply with confidence.

2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once you receive a job offer, your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)—a digital reference that includes your role, salary, and job details.

Note: The Certificate of Sponsorship cannot be purchased, and the cost is often borne by the employer. If someone offers you a CoS for a fee, it is a scam. You must apply for a Skilled Worker visa legally.

3. Eligible Occupation

Your job must be on the official list of eligible occupations. Jobs on UK Visa Jobs already meet this requirement.

Note: A job on the eligible occupation list does not mean it will definitely be sponsored. Whether to sponsor a role or not is down to an employer’s decision. On UK Visa Jobs, we do not have jobs that are not likely to be sponsored, saving you precious time.

4. Minimum Salary Requirement

As of July 2025, the general salary threshold for Skilled Worker visa applicants is £41,700 per year or the going rate for that occupation, whichever is higher. This is up from the previous £38,700. However, exceptions exist (see below). On UK Visa Jobs, we review salaries and remove any jobs that do not meet salary requirements. You can learn more about recent changes to immigration and salary rules here.

5. English Language Proficiency

You must prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English at the B1 level on the CEFR scale. This typically means scoring 5.5 or above in each IELTS component. If you studied in the UK or a majority English-speaking country, you might be exempt. You can learn more about the language requirement here.

You must meet ALL of the above five requirements to be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa.

When Can You Be Paid Less Than £41,700?

Not everyone needs to meet the £41,700 salary threshold. Here’s when you can still qualify with a lower salary:

For applicants with a relevant PhD, the minimum salary requirement is £37,500 or 90% the occupation's going rate, whichever is higher. This is increased from £34,830.
For applicants with a relevant PhD in STEM, the minimum salary requirement is £33,400 or 80% the occupation's going rate, whichever is higher. This is increased from £30,960.
For new entrants, the minimum salary requirement is £33,400 or 70% of the occupation's going rate, whichever is higher. This is increased from £30,960.
For some transitional cases, the minimum salary requirement is £31,300 or the going rate, whichever is higher. This is increased from £29,000.

You are a new entrant if you meet one of the following criteria:

You’re under 26 on the date you apply
You’re currently in the UK on a Student visa studying at a bachelor’s degree level or above - or you have been in the last 2 years, and a Student or visit visa was your most recent visa
You’re currently in the UK on a Graduate visa, or you have been in the last 2 years
You’ll be working towards a recognised qualification in a UK regulated profession
You’ll be working towards full registration or chartered status in the job you’re being sponsored for

How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa in 2025

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the application process:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

Apply for verified roles on UK Visa Jobs or other trusted platforms like LinkedIn or Workbeyond, attend interviews and receive job offers. The application process can be long and challenging, requiring preparation and persistence.

Step 2: Receive Your Certificate of Sponsorship

Once you’ve signed a contract, your employer will issue a CoS. You’ll need this to apply for your visa.

Step 3: Apply Online

Submit your visa application through the UK government’s official visa portal. You’ll need:

CoS reference number
Passport details
Job information
Proof of English proficiency
Other application-specific information

Step 4: Biometric Appointment

Schedule a visit to your nearest visa application centre to provide fingerprints and photographs.

Step 5: Submit Documents

Prepare the following:

Valid passport
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Proof of English (e.g., IELTS)
Financial evidence (if required)
Other documents, if relevant

Step 6: Pay Fees

Visa Application Fee - the standard fee ranges from £769 to £1,751 depending on your circumstances, such as job and duration.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035/year.

Some employers may cover some or all of these costs.

Step 7: Interview (If Required)

Some applicants may be invited for an interview. Be prepared and stay honest.

Step 8: Wait for a Decision

Decisions typically take 3 to 8 weeks, depending on your country. Fast-track services may be available.

Step 9: Obtain your immigration status

If approved, you’ll be given either a sticker (called a vignette) that goes in your passport - if you gave your biometric information at a visa application centre or an online record of your immigration status (an ‘eVisa’).

Visa Compliance and Tips to Avoid Scams

Once in the UK, make sure to:

Work only for your sponsoring employer
Stick to the terms of your visa
Avoid taking any illegal or freelance work

Warning: Beware of job scams. Never pay for a job offer, a CoS, or an employment letter. Legitimate UK employers do not recruit via WhatsApp or Facebook.

Final Thoughts

The UK Skilled Worker visa is a powerful route to build a long-term future in the UK. In 2025, the requirements are more streamlined, but competition is also increasing. The best way to start your journey is by browsing visa-sponsored roles at UK Visa Jobs, applying early, and preparing well.