Skilled Worker visa
Best suited to: Applicants with a job offer from a licensed sponsor
United Kingdom
Moving to the UK under the points-based system
Almost every UK work route needs a licensed sponsor. Check what your route requires before you apply.
- Skilled Worker applications need a sponsoring employer
- The immigration health surcharge is paid up front
- Time on some routes counts toward settlement
Visa routes to United Kingdom
Each route has its own eligibility rules. Use these summaries to decide which official pages are worth your time.
Global Talent
Best suited to: People endorsed as leaders or potential leaders in their field
Student visa
Best suited to: Students with a confirmed place at a licensed institution
Family visa
Best suited to: Partners and family of British citizens and settled people
What to know before applying
The UK's points-based immigration system covers work, study and family routes. Most applicants need a sponsoring employer, an educational institution or a qualifying family member in the UK.
- Skilled Worker visas need a sponsor licence employer and a qualifying salary.
- Health and Care Worker visas have lower fees for eligible medical and care staff.
- Graduate visas let recent students work without a sponsor for two or three years.
- Most work routes can lead to settlement after five years.
United Kingdom immigration FAQs
- Do I need a job offer to move to the UK?
- For the Skilled Worker and Health and Care routes, yes. Global Talent, Graduate and some family routes do not require a job offer.
- Can I switch visas inside the UK?
- In many cases yes, for example from Student to Skilled Worker or Graduate to Skilled Worker, as long as you meet the route's requirements.
- How much do I need to earn?
- Salary thresholds vary by occupation and route. Check the current going-rate list and general threshold on the official gov.uk pages, as they change over time.