UK work visas
The UK offers several kinds of work visa:
- Short-term work visas
- Long-term work visas, including the Skilled Worker visa
- Investor, business development and talent visas
- Other specialist work visas
The Skilled Worker visa
The Skilled Worker visa (formerly the Tier 2 General visa) lets you work in the UK for up to five years. It is points-based, and you need at least 70 points. Points come from:
- A Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed UK employer
- A salary at or above the threshold for your occupation, which the UK government reviews regularly
- English language ability
- Enough maintenance funds to support yourself
With a Skilled Worker visa you can bring eligible family members, travel in and out of the UK, and study alongside your job.
Skills in demand
- Programming. C++, Python, JavaScript, SQL and Java.
- DevOps. One of the fastest-growing digital skills in the UK.
- AI and machine learning. Roles such as data architect, data warehouse developer and data analyst.
- Cloud computing. A fast-growing market for business solutions.
- Cybersecurity. In high demand as attacks increase.
- CRM. A fast-growing specialism across industries.
Processing time and length of stay
- You can apply up to three months before your start date, which is shown on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
- A decision usually arrives within three weeks of applying from outside the UK.
- Your visa usually matches the length of your job contract, up to five years.
- If you haven’t reached the maximum stay, you can apply to extend, online or at a premium service centre.
Documents you’ll need
- A valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer
- Salary and financial details
- Your current passport and travel history
- Proof of your English language skills
- A police clearance certificate
- Other supporting documents for your case
Bringing your family: the dependant visa
Spouses, partners and children can join a Skilled Worker visa holder in the UK. Eligible family members include:
- Your spouse, or your unmarried or same-sex partner
- Children under 18 when you apply
- Children over 18 who are dependent on you
Requirements
- A genuine relationship, and a plan to live together in the UK
- Additional maintenance funds for each dependant
- A clean immigration history that meets the general grounds for admission
What dependants can do
- Stay in the UK for the same period as the main visa holder
- Work, with limited exceptions
- Study, subject to conditions
- Extend their visa together with the main applicant
Dependants can apply with the main application or later. Dependant visa holders cannot claim public funds.
How we help
- Eligibility check. We assess your points and the routes open to you.
- Job search guidance. Practical insight into the UK job market and sponsoring employers.
- Application support. We prepare, check and file your visa and any dependant visas.