Skilled Worker Visa
End-to-end Skilled Worker visa applications for individuals and employers.
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route to work in the UK for overseas nationals. Introduced in December 2020 to replace the Tier 2 (General) visa, the route requires applicants to have a confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor in an eligible occupation. BW Solicitors provides clear, expert advice to both employees and employers on every aspect of the Skilled Worker route.
Who Qualifies for a Skilled Worker Visa?
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet a points-based threshold. Key requirements include a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer, a job offer that meets the relevant salary threshold for the occupation, an eligible occupation at RQF Level 6 or above, and a sufficient level of English language proficiency. The applicable salary threshold varies depending on the occupation and whether the applicant qualifies as a new entrant.
- Valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed sponsor
- Eligible occupation at RQF Level 6 or above
- Salary threshold depending on occupation and new-entrant status
- English language requirement (B1 CEFR or above)
- No criminal convictions affecting good character
- Adequate finances to support yourself on arrival (unless exempt)
How BW Solicitors Can Help
Whether you are an employee who has received a job offer and needs help with your visa application, or an employer seeking to understand your sponsorship obligations, our team is here to help. We advise on eligibility, assist with the preparation and submission of applications, and provide guidance on maintaining visa compliance during your stay in the UK.
- Eligibility assessment and honest advice on prospects
- Preparation and review of all supporting documents
- Drafting and submission of the visa application
- Advice on salary thresholds, shortage occupations and tradeable points
- Guidance on switching to the Skilled Worker route from within the UK
- Advice on extending your Skilled Worker visa
- Support with applications for ILR after five years on the route
Switching and Extending Your Skilled Worker Visa
If you are already in the UK on another visa category, it may be possible to switch to the Skilled Worker route without leaving the country. Similarly, once your initial visa period is coming to an end, an extension application must be submitted before your current leave expires. Our solicitors will guide you through both processes, ensuring your application is accurate and submitted on time.
Why Choose BW Solicitors?
Our immigration team has extensive experience with Skilled Worker visa applications across a wide range of occupations and sectors, including healthcare, education, IT, finance and social care. We work with both individual applicants and employers throughout Ilford, East London and beyond.