The UK Skilled Worker Visa remains the primary immigration route for overseas professionals seeking lawful employment in the United Kingdom. In 2026, while the fundamentals of the route remain familiar, policy adjustments and stricter compliance standards mean applicants must approach this visa with clarity and precision.
At Next Gen Consultants, we focus on realistic outcomes, not promises and guide both workers and employers through the process with strategic accuracy.
What It Is
The Skilled Worker Visa allows non-UK nationals to live and work in the UK in an eligible skilled role with an approved employer. It replaced the former Tier 2 (General) route and now operates under a points-based immigration system.
This visa is employer-sponsored, meaning applicants must secure a qualifying job offer before applying.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Skilled Worker route, applicants must meet all core requirements, including:
- A confirmed job offer from a UK employer holding a valid sponsor licence
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by the employer
- Employment in a role listed under eligible occupation codes
- A salary meeting the current minimum threshold or occupation-specific going rate
- Demonstrated English language ability
- Ability to support themselves financially (unless certified by the sponsor)
Each application is assessed individually, and meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee approval without proper documentation and compliance.
Salary Thresholds in 2026
The UK government has significantly raised salary requirements in recent years. In most cases, applicants must now earn at least £38,700 per year, unless their occupation qualifies for a permitted lower rate under specific transitional or shortage-based provisions.
Understanding the correct salary structure is essential — errors at this stage are a common reason for refusals.
Required Documents
Applicants will typically need:
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Employment contract or job details
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS)
- Financial evidence (if required)
- Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries)
- Criminal record certificate (for relevant roles)
Employers must also maintain strict sponsorship compliance throughout the worker’s stay.
Application Process
- Secure a qualifying job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship
- Submit the online visa application
- Attend biometric appointment and upload documents
- Await a Home Office decision (standard processing usually around 3 weeks)
Priority services may be available depending on location.
Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes. Skilled Worker Visa holders can bring:
- A spouse or partner
- Dependent children under 18
Each dependent must submit a separate application and meet financial requirements. However, recent rule changes have limited dependent eligibility for certain care-related roles.
Duration and Route to Settlement
- The Skilled Worker Visa can be granted for up to 5 years
- It can be extended as long as eligibility continues
- After 5 years of lawful residence, applicants may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- ILR can later lead to British citizenship
Continuity of employment and salary compliance are critical for settlement eligibility.
Common Mistakes We See
At Next Gen Consultants, many clients come to us after facing refusals due to:
- Incorrect occupation codes
- Salary miscalculations
- Weak employer sponsorship compliance
- Incomplete documentation
- Misunderstanding dependent rules
Early strategic advice can prevent costly delays and reapplications.
How Next Gen Consultants Can Help
We provide practical, transparent guidance, including:
- Eligibility assessments for workers and employers
- Sponsor licence support for UK businesses
- Skilled Worker visa applications and extensions
- Employer compliance advice
- Long-term settlement planning
Our approach is straightforward: clear advice, realistic outcomes, and no unnecessary complications.
