UK visas
UK Skilled Worker visa: work in the UK with a sponsoring employer
The main UK work visa. You need a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor, in an eligible occupation, at or above the salary the rules set.
- Needs
- Licensed sponsor and job offer
- Length
- Up to 5 years, then extend
- Settlement
- Possible after 5 years
Who it suits
Is this visa for you?
- You have, or are looking for, a job offer from a UK employer
- Your job is at the skill level the rules ask for
- You want to bring a partner and children
- You want a route that can lead to settlement
The basics
What the authorities look for
- A job with an approved employer holding a sponsor licence
- A certificate of sponsorship from that employer
- A job in an eligible occupation, at or above the minimum salary for it
- English language at the required level
- Enough money to support yourself, unless the sponsor certifies it
- Partner and children can apply as dependants
A summary of the published rules. The full rules have more conditions, and they change. Last reviewed October 2026. GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa
Take care
Where cases go wrong
- **Job and salary mismatch.** The occupation code and the pay must both qualify, not one of them.
- **Sponsor not licensed for the role.** Check the register before you accept an offer.
- **Salary rules change.** Thresholds and occupation lists have been revised more than once. Use current figures.
- **Going rate for the job.** The minimum is the higher of the general level and the rate for your occupation.
Your case has details a web page cannot cover.
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Skilled Worker visa questions
Can I apply without a job offer?
No. You need a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer first. Our calculator helps you test your salary and points position before you start.
Can my family come with me?
Usually yes. Your partner and children can apply as dependants, subject to the dependant rules.
Can this lead to settlement?
The usual route is to settle after five years in the UK on a qualifying visa. Settlement rules have been under review, so check the current position before you plan around a date.
Keep reading
Other UK visa pages
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