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In this fourth episode, Alicja Bielawska and Jarmila Entezari discuss about Skilled Worker Visa. This visa is essential for foreign nationals with job offers in the UK requiring specific skills, qualifications, or experience. It is designed to fill labour shortages and allows UK employers to recruit talent globally when there are not enough qualified candidates within the country.

Both employers and employees benefit from this visa. Employers with a valid sponsor licence can address skill gaps, while workers gain the opportunity to work and live in the UK, with the potential for permanent settlement after five years.

Eligible Occupations and Initial Steps

A wide range of occupations qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, including healthcare professionals, engineers, teachers, and IT specialists. The first step is to check the list of eligible occupations published by the Home Office. If an occupation is not listed, further searches can be conducted using the CASCOT occupation coding tool. If skills, experience, or qualifications cannot be linked to an eligible job, applying for this visa is not possible.

Application Requirements

To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, an individual must:

• Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence.
• Hold a job at the required skill level.
• Be offered a salary that meets the minimum threshold, which varies depending on the role and occupational code.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency at a B1 level.
• Have savings of at least GBP 1,270 to cover essential expenses upon arrival, unless covered by the employer.

Application Process

The process of applying for a Skilled Worker Visa involves several steps:

• The employer provides a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a unique reference number for the job. Applicants should obtain a copy to verify its accuracy, as they are responsible for meeting immigration requirements.
• Complete the online visa application form on the official UK government website.
• Submit necessary documents, including proof of identity, CoS, evidence of English proficiency, and proof of funds if required.
• Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service.
• Provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application centre or use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app, depending on the applicant’s location.

Costs and Processing Times

The standard application fee varies depending on the length of sponsorship. Processing times can also differ: applications from outside the UK typically take up to three weeks, while those from within the UK may take up to eight weeks. Premium services are available for urgent applications, with decisions issued within five working days for the standard premium service and within 24 hours for the super-premium service, both of which incur additional fees.

Staying Informed

Immigration rules and Home Office policies change frequently. The information provided is up to date at the time of publication but may be subject to amendments. Potential reforms to the points-based system and sponsorship management are being discussed, and changes to salary thresholds and eligible occupations can impact both employers and applicants.

It is essential to refer to the latest guidelines from official sources or consult with an immigration expert to ensure compliance with current regulations.

This podcast is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this podcast was published.

Call us now to discuss your case 03301070106 or email us at business@imd.co.uk.