Skilled Worker Visa — The 70-Point System
Every Skilled Worker applicant must score at least 70 points. Mandatory points (50, not tradeable) and tradeable points (20, where deficiencies in one area can be offset against another):
Other Work Routes
From Skilled Worker to Settlement
- 1Entry clearance or permission to stay — granted for up to 5 years at a time. Applicant can bring dependants (spouse/partner and children under 18).
- 25-year continuous residence — counting from the date of first leave as a Skilled Worker (or eligible predecessor route such as Tier 2 General). Absences of no more than 180 days in any 12-month period apply.
- 3ILR application — Life in the UK test, English language, salary still at or above the going rate, and continuous lawful residence. Dependants can apply for ILR at the same time.
- 4Naturalisation — 1 year after ILR (5 years total in the UK), the applicant can apply for British citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa?
From April 2024, the general salary threshold is £38,700 per year gross, or the going rate for the specific Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code — whichever is higher. Workers in shortage occupations on the Immigration Salary List may qualify at a lower threshold (80% of the going rate, minimum £30,960). New entrants (under 26 or switching from student visa) have a lower threshold of 70% of the going rate, minimum £30,960.
Can my employer just hire anyone on a Skilled Worker visa?
No. The employer must hold a valid sponsor licence, assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the worker, carry out a resident labour market test in most cases, pay the Immigration Skills Charge (£1,000 per year for small employers, £239 for charities; £1,000 per year for medium/large employers), and comply with ongoing sponsor duties including record-keeping, reporting changes, and monitoring attendance.
Can I change jobs on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, but you must obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer before starting the new role, and the new role must also meet the Skilled Worker eligibility criteria (SOC code, salary). You do not need to make a fresh visa application unless the new role is significantly different — your existing leave continues under the new CoS. A solicitor advises whether a new application is needed.
What happens if I am made redundant on a Skilled Worker visa?
Your sponsor must report the end of your employment to the Home Office. Your leave may be curtailed — typically giving you 60 days to find a new sponsor and switch, or to leave the UK. During those 60 days you can work for a new employer if they assign you a CoS, but you cannot remain in the UK without sponsorship. A solicitor advises on switching sponsor or switching to another route quickly.
Can my family come with me on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes. Your partner (spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner) and children under 18 can apply as dependants. They have the right to work in the UK without restriction. Dependants must apply separately, paying the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. They settle and naturalise on the same timeline as the main applicant.