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The United Kingdom has long been one of the most attractive destinations for skilled professionals from around the world. With its diverse job opportunities, high standards of living, and global reputation, the UK continues to welcome international talent. The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for people who wish to move to the UK for employment. In July 2025, new rules came into effect that have significantly changed the requirements, particularly around salary and eligibility. Understanding these updates is crucial if you are planning to apply.
This article explains the updated criteria, salary thresholds, and step-by-step application process so you can prepare effectively.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa allows non-UK nationals to live and work in the country if they have a job offer from an approved employer. It replaced the older Tier 2 General visa and is now the most common work route for professionals. Holders of this visa can bring their dependants, extend their stay, and even work towards permanent residency in the UK after five years.
Key Updates in 2025
The government has raised the bar to ensure that overseas workers are filling genuine skills gaps rather than undercutting local employment. The most significant changes are:
- The general minimum salary threshold has increased to £41,700 per year or the going rate for the specific job, whichever is higher.
- Occupations must now meet a higher skill level requirement, generally equivalent to graduate-level roles.
- Discounts on salary thresholds remain available in limited cases, such as for new entrants, STEM graduates, or roles on the Immigration Salary List.
- Applicants must provide stronger evidence of English proficiency and financial stability.
These changes mean that careful planning is essential before you begin your application.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa, you need to satisfy a combination of requirements.
First, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is licensed by the Home Office to sponsor foreign workers. Without this sponsorship, you cannot apply.
Second, your employer must issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship. This is a digital document containing details about your role, job code, and salary.
Third, your job must be on the official list of eligible occupations. These are roles that meet the skill and salary levels set by the government.
Fourth, you need to meet the English language requirement, usually by passing an approved test at B1 level or by showing qualifications taught in English.
Finally, you must have enough funds to support yourself when you first arrive unless your employer certifies maintenance on your behalf.
Salary Criteria Explained
The salary rules are central to the new system. For most applicants, the salary offered must be at least £41,700 a year or the going rate for the role. Some occupations, such as healthcare and teaching, have separate salary rules that are slightly lower because they are recognised as shortage areas.
There are reduced salary thresholds available in some situations. For example, if you are under 26, switching to a skilled worker visa from a student visa, or starting a career in a qualifying job, you may qualify as a new entrant. In this case, the minimum can be around £33,400 or 70 percent of the going rate.
If you hold a PhD relevant to the role, particularly in a STEM subject, you may also qualify for a lower threshold, around £33,400 as well. This encourages highly qualified graduates to bring their expertise to the UK.
Step by Step Application Process
Applying for the Skilled Worker visa involves several stages.
Step one is to check that your job is eligible and your employer is on the list of licensed sponsors.
Step two is to secure your job offer and obtain your Certificate of Sponsorship. Without this, you cannot proceed.
Step three is to gather your supporting documents. These include your passport, evidence of English language ability, financial proof, and the details from your certificate.
Step four is to complete the online application on the UK government website. During this process you will pay the application fee and the immigration health surcharge, which gives you access to the National Health Service.
Step five is to provide your biometrics. This means attending a visa application centre for fingerprints and a photo, or in some cases using the UK immigration app.
Step six is to wait for the decision. Applications made outside the UK usually take around three weeks, while those inside the country can take up to eight weeks. Priority services may speed this up.
Once approved, you will receive a visa vignette or digital status allowing you to travel to the UK and start your new role.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications are refused because of avoidable errors. These include not meeting the correct salary threshold, choosing the wrong occupation code, or submitting incomplete documents. Others fail because applicants did not meet the English language requirement or could not show enough funds.
To reduce risk, always double-check the government website and ensure your employer has issued the correct certificate. It is also wise to keep copies of all your documents and correspondence.
Life After the Visa
The Skilled Worker visa is usually granted for up to five years at a time. After five continuous years in the UK, you may apply for indefinite leave to remain, which gives you permanent residency. To qualify, you must have spent most of your time in the UK, continued working in an eligible role, and met the language and life in the UK requirements.
Once you have ILR, you can eventually apply for British citizenship if you meet the additional conditions.
Conclusion
The Skilled Worker visa offers a clear route for professionals who wish to build their future in the UK, but the updated rules have made the process stricter. The rise in salary thresholds means applicants must be well prepared and ensure their job offers genuinely meet the criteria.
With careful planning, attention to detail, and the right documents, securing this visa can open doors to exciting career opportunities and long-term settlement in the UK. For anyone considering this pathway, staying informed about the latest requirements is the key to a smooth application.