How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa

Secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor

Your UK employer must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence. They must also confirm that your role is at RQF Level 6 or above, meets the salary threshold, and is listed under an eligible Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code.

You can check whether a company is a licensed sponsor using the Register of Licensed Sponsors on GOV.UK.

Receive your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your employer assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) — a unique reference number (not a physical document). This must be issued no more than 3 months (90 days) before you submit your visa application.

Your CoS will include your job title, SOC code, salary, start date, and personal details. Check everything carefully — errors can delay your application.

Gather your documents

Before applying you will need to collect the following:

• Valid passport (or other approved travel document)
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
• Proof of English language (B2 level — SELT, qualifying degree, or eligible nationality)
• Evidence of salary (contract or written confirmation from employer)
• Proof of qualifications (if claiming PhD discount)
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds (if required — usually needed for applicants outside the UK without the employer maintenance undertaking)
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results if required (depends on country of residence)

For the complete documented checklist, download our Applicant Checklist.

Pay the fees

Fees vary depending on how long you are applying for and whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK.

Always confirm current fees on GOV.UK before applying — they can change without notice. Note: some fees are paid by employers.

Submit your online application

Apply online via the GOV.UK Visa and Immigration service. You will need to create an account, complete the application form and upload supporting documents digitally.

If applying from outside the UK you can apply up to 3 months before your intended start date. If applying from inside the UK (switching or extending), you must apply before your current permission expires.

Prove your identity

Depending on your nationality and document type, you will either:

• Use the UK Visas and Immigration app to scan your biometric passport (most applicants)
• Attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit biometrics in person

Wait for a decision

Standard processing is usually within 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK. Priority and super-priority services are available for faster decisions at additional cost.

Travel to the UK and collect your BRP

If approved and applying from outside the UK, you will receive a vignette sticker in your passport allowing you to enter. You must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arriving — from a specified Post Office or using the UK Visas and Immigration app.