UK work visa basics

A short overview. Rules and salary thresholds change often, so always check the linked GOV.UK pages before you apply.

The main sponsored routes

Skilled Worker

  • The most common route. You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
  • The role must be an eligible occupation and meet a minimum salary (the general threshold or the occupation's going rate, whichever is higher).
  • You need to prove your English, and the route can lead to settlement.
  • Current Skilled Worker rules on GOV.UK

Global Business Mobility

  • For people moved to the UK by an overseas employer, e.g. Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee.
  • Temporary: it does not lead to settlement on its own.
  • Global Business Mobility on GOV.UK

Scale-up

  • For highly skilled roles at fast-growing companies.
  • Sponsorship is only needed for the first 6 months, after which you can change employer.
  • Scale-up visa on GOV.UK

What a sponsor licence means

  • Only employers on the register can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which you need to apply.
  • A-rated sponsors are fully trusted. B-rated sponsors are on an action plan and can't assign new certificates until it's resolved.
  • A licence means the employer can sponsor, not that every role is open to sponsorship. Check the job ad or ask.

How applying works

  1. Find a licensed sponsor with a role that fits you.
  2. Get a job offer, and the employer assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship.
  3. Prepare documents: passport, English evidence, and anything else your route requires.
  4. Apply online and pay the fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
  5. Prove your identity (app or appointment) and wait for a decision.
Find a sponsor

Not legal advice. See GOV.UK work visas.