Skilled Worker Visa — Document Checklist & Complete Guide
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020. It lets you live and work in the UK for an eligible employer for up to 5 years. This guide explains exactly who qualifies, what documents you need, and what everything costs — so you can apply with confidence.
Do I qualify for the Skilled Worker visa?
Job offer from a licensed sponsor
Your employer must hold a valid sponsor licence. You can check the UKVI register of licensed sponsors.
Role on the eligible occupations list
Your job must appear in the eligible occupations list (SOC 2020) and meet the skill threshold.
Salary meets the threshold
From April 2024: general threshold is £38,700/year. New entrants may qualify at £30,960. Some shortage roles have lower thresholds.
English language requirement
You must demonstrate English to at least B1 level via an approved test, degree, or nationality exemption.
Maintenance funds
You must hold £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying, unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
Document checklist
VisaVault generates a personalised version of this list for your exact circumstances.
Valid passport or travel document
Must be valid for the full intended stay. Include previous passports if they show UK entry history.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
Your sponsor issues this. Contains your job details, salary, and SOC code.
Proof of English language ability
IELTS/SELT certificate, degree transcript, or proof of nationality from a majority English-speaking country.
Bank statements (28-day maintenance)
Showing £1,270 continuously for the 28 days ending no more than 31 days before you apply.
TB test certificate (if required)
Required if you are from a listed country. Test must be conducted at an approved clinic.
ATAS clearance certificate (if required)
Required for certain science, engineering, and technology subjects at postgraduate level.
Criminal record certificate (if required)
Required for roles working with vulnerable groups. Check the list of roles requiring this.
Proof of any existing UK leave
If you are already in the UK, include BRP or vignette showing your current visa.
Salary evidence (if salary trading)
If trading a higher salary for a lower threshold, provide written confirmation from sponsor.
Job offer letter
Although the CoS is primary, a supporting offer letter clarifies your role and salary.
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Which visa type are you applying for?
Costs and processing times
Visa application fee (up to 3 years)
£719
Visa application fee (over 3 years)
£1,420
Immigration Health Surcharge (per year)
£1,035/year
Priority service (optional)
£500 additional
VisaVault document pack
£499 one-off
Typical processing time
3 weeks standard; 5 working days with priority service
Frequently asked questions
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