The United Kingdom remains one of the most sought-after destinations for skilled professionals seeking career advancement and international work experience. Among the various visa routes, the UK Tier 2 Work Visa—now known under the new Skilled Worker Visa system—is the primary pathway for non-UK nationals who wish to work in the UK through employer sponsorship.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to obtaining a UK Tier 2/Skilled Worker Visa via employer sponsorship, covering eligibility criteria, application processes, sponsorship requirements, documentation, timelines, costs, and recent changes in immigration policy. The guide is designed to help prospective applicants, HR professionals, and employers navigate this complex process with clarity and confidence.
Official Source: UK Home Office Skilled Worker Visa
Understanding the UK Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) Visa
What Is the Tier 2/Skilled Worker Visa?
Previously known as the Tier 2 (General) visa, the Skilled Worker Visa is the UK government’s points-based immigration route for skilled workers sponsored by licensed employers. This visa permits qualified individuals to live and work in the UK for a specific job, generally for up to five years, with pathways to extend stay and potentially apply for permanent residence.
Recent Changes: From Tier 2 to Skilled Worker Visa
In December 2020, the UK government replaced the Tier 2 visa with the Skilled Worker Visa under a new points-based immigration system. Despite this change, many existing processes remain similar, and employer sponsorship remains central.
Key Features of the Skilled Worker Visa
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Employer Sponsorship: Requires a job offer from a UK-based licensed sponsor.
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Eligible Occupations: Jobs must be on the official list of eligible occupations.
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Salary Thresholds: Minimum salary requirements must be met.
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Points-Based Assessment: Applicants must accumulate at least 70 points based on job, salary, language skills, and other factors.
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Dependents: Visa holders can bring family members.
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Pathway to Settlement: Eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
Step 1: Understanding Employer Sponsorship
What Is a Licensed Sponsor?
A licensed sponsor is a UK employer approved by the Home Office to sponsor foreign workers. Employers must hold a valid sponsor license to issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), which are essential for visa applications.
How Employers Obtain a Sponsor License
Employers must apply for sponsorship licenses by demonstrating:
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Genuine business operation
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Effective HR and recruitment practices
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Compliance with immigration laws
The sponsor license application process typically takes 8 weeks or longer.
Learn More: Become a Sponsor
Employer Responsibilities
Licensed sponsors must:
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Assign a valid CoS to the applicant.
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Keep records and monitor sponsored employees.
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Report any changes or breaches to the Home Office.
Step 2: Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship
Applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor who will issue a CoS with a unique reference number.
Eligible Occupations
The job must be on the current list of eligible occupations as defined by the UK government. Examples include:
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IT Business Analysts
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Nurses
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Engineers
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Social Workers
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Scientists
The list is regularly updated; applicants should verify their job role against the official list.
Skill Level and Salary Thresholds
The role must meet the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above) and the applicant must be paid at least the minimum salary threshold, which varies:
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General threshold: £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour
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New entrants may have lower thresholds
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Some shortage occupations have reduced salary thresholds
English Language Proficiency
Applicants must prove English language skills at a B1 level or higher, evidenced by:
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Passing an approved English test
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Being a national of an English-speaking country
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Holding a degree taught in English
Step 3: Gathering Required Documentation
Applicants must submit several documents along with their visa application, including:
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Valid passport or travel document
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Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
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Proof of English language proficiency
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Proof of maintenance funds (if not certified by sponsor)
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Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries)
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Criminal record certificate (for specific occupations)
Step 4: The Visa Application Process
Online Application
Applicants must apply online through the official UK government website.
Application Fee
Visa fees vary depending on:
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Length of stay
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Whether the applicant is inside or outside the UK
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Use of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Typical fees:
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Up to 3 years: £610
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More than 3 years: £1,220
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IHS: £624 per year
Biometric Appointment
Applicants attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
Decision Waiting Time
Standard decision times are:
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3 weeks if applying outside the UK
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8 weeks if applying inside the UK
Priority services are available for an additional fee.
Step 5: After the Visa Is Granted
Arrival in the UK
Visa holders receive a vignette (sticker) in their passport valid for 30 days to enter the UK. Upon arrival, they must collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
Rights and Restrictions
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Work only for the sponsoring employer in the sponsored role.
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Bring dependents under certain conditions.
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Access healthcare via the NHS.
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Travel in and out of the UK freely during visa validity.
Extending or Switching Visa
Visa holders can extend their visa before expiry or switch to other visa categories if eligible.
Common Challenges and Tips for Success
Common Issues
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Incorrect or incomplete applications leading to delays or refusals
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Employers failing to maintain sponsorship compliance
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Changes in job role or salary without notifying the Home Office
Tips for Applicants
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Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete.
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Confirm the employer is a licensed sponsor.
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Maintain valid immigration status throughout the application process.
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Seek professional legal advice if needed.
Impact of COVID-19 and Brexit on the Skilled Worker Visa
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted visa processing but services have largely resumed normal operations.
Brexit has changed immigration rules for EU citizens, who now require visas like all other non-UK nationals, increasing demand for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Related Visa Routes and Alternatives
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Global Talent Visa: For highly skilled individuals in specific fields.
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Health and Care Worker Visa: For medical professionals.
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Temporary Worker Visas: For short-term work in specific sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I change employers while on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, but you must obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship and apply for a visa update.
2. Can my family join me on this visa?
Yes, dependents can apply to accompany or join you.
3. How long can I stay in the UK on this visa?
Up to 5 years initially, with options to extend.
4. Is there a pathway to permanent residency?
Yes, after 5 years, applicants may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Conclusion
Securing a UK Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) Visa through employer sponsorship is a structured yet detailed process that requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and adherence to Home Office guidelines. With evolving immigration policies and growing demand for skilled workers, understanding each step—from employer licensing to application submission—ensures the best chance of success.
For up-to-date official guidance and applications, always consult the UK Home Office resources and consider expert legal advice tailored to individual circumstances.
Feranmi Nureni