People migrate in large numbers to the UK in search of better job opportunities. However, many applications get rejected on a daily basis due to inadequate and incorrect information in the application forms. One must ensure that they have all the important information before applying for a UK tier 2 work visa.
Applying for a visa may seem difficult, but as long as you are familiar with the process, it is actually rather simple.
To learn more about the visa application process for skilled workers, keep reading this article.
What is a skilled worker visa?
The skilled worker visa is a visa granted to non-UK residents to come and work in the UK. This visa is given to workers who have a sponsorship certificate from a valid UK employer.
It was formerly known as Tier 2 visa. The candidate for a skilled worker visa must have enough points under the UK immigration system.
Who is eligible for a skilled worker visa?
To become eligible for a skilled worker visa, you need to qualify for certain eligibility requirements. You need to earn a total of 70 points, 50 points for mandatory criteria and 20 points for tradeable criteria.
Here’s a detailed overview of the eligibility criteria -
1. Job offer with a sponsorship letter
A job offer with a sponsorship letter from a licensed UK employer will grant you 20 points. Your employer should also hold a valid Tier 2 sponsor license from UKVI. Ensure that your job is on the list of eligible occupations. You can use this sponsorship letter only once for an application. You can apply for the work visa within 3 months of the issue of your sponsorship letter.
2. Get the minimum salary
There must be a minimum wage for your position. It could be any one of the given options -
- £25,600 annually
- 10.10 per hour
- The going rate
3. Financial support during your stay
The Home Office must be convinced that the applicant for a Tier 2 visa will be able to sustain themselves once they arrive in the UK. Thus the applicant can provide proof of financial sustainability by showing that either they or their UK-licensed sponsor has sufficient funds to cover their first month’s expenses.
If the provision of maintenance is not acknowledged on the sponsorship letter, the applicant must demonstrate that they have £945 in their bank account for at least 90 days prior to the application date.
4. You must have a basic understanding of English
The UK government makes sure that you know the fundamentals of English before approving your visa application. This includes reading and writing in English. The minimum IELTS score for a UK work visa is 4.0.
How to apply for a skilled worker visa?
You can apply for your skilled worker visa within 3 months of receiving your sponsorship letter. You also need to make a UK visa appointment to submit all the important documents and enrol in your biometrics. The list of all the important documents is as follows -
- A passport that is valid for the next 6 months
- Past travel documents and expired passports to reflect previous travel history
- Recent photographs
- Evidence showing your English knowledge
- Proof of financial support during the stay
- Documents showing the details of accommodation
- Criminal record certificate
- Biometric test
- Sponsorship certificate
- Accommodation details
If you are applying from outside the UK, you can apply online. However, you might have to visit the nearby visa office for verification.
How long does it take to get approval for the visa?
You will receive a notification about your uk work visa within 3 to 4 weeks of application if you are applying from outside the UK. However, if you are applying from the UK, you may have to wait for 8 weeks. Depending on your situation, the Home Office may require additional time to check your paperwork and verify your identity. Because of this, you should always give yourself extra time and submit your application on time.
On what grounds can a visa application be rejected?
Your visa application can get rejected if you fail to submit a correct application form with all the necessary documents attached. Thus you should double-check your application form before submitting it. Some of the common reasons for rejection of a UK skilled worker visa are insufficient funds to support your stay in the UK and not meeting the salary requirements.
What is the application fee for a skilled worker visa?
Depending on a number of variables, the base charge for a Skilled Worker Visa application might range from £610 to £1,048. It depends on your stay, the job you are applying for, and the location from where you are applying. You will be charged less if your position is on the shortage occupation list.
A fee of £624.00 per applicant per year will be levied for the immigration health surcharge. This has to be paid in full and upfront. For instance, if you are applying for a 3-year visa with a dependent, the total cost would be £3,744.00.
You will benefit from a discounted rate on application costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge fee if you qualify for a skilled worker visa as a health and care worker.
Get professional help to prevent visa refusals
Applying for a UK work visa is a fairly simple task, provided you understand the procedure. Make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria before applying. Also, ensure that you have all the necessary documents. This will help you get your visa quickly. If queries about the procedure, it is advisable that you seek guidance from UK Work permit consultants to know about the UK work visa process!