GB Skilled & work Temporary

Skilled Worker visa

The UK's main sponsored work visa.

Who this route is for

Professionals with a UK job offer from a Home Office-licensed sponsor in an eligible occupation at RQF Level 6 (degree level) or above.

Job offer from a licensed sponsor, eligible RQF 6 occupation, and English = 70 points total.
General salary at least 41,700 pounds/year (from 22 July 2025), or the occupation's going rate, whichever is higher; new-entrant floor 33,400 pounds.
English at CEFR B2 (raised from B1) for applications from 8 January 2026.
RQF 6 skill level required for new applicants from 22 July 2025 (previously RQF 3).
Be aged 18 or over; maintenance funds of 1,270 pounds unless sponsor certifies.

Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.

Check your points first

Use the free Skilled Worker Points & Salary Checker to see if you're likely to qualify before you start.

IHS-exempt Skilled Worker branch for NHS and eligible health professionals.

Unsponsored visa for leaders in research, arts/culture or digital technology.

Sponsored for 6 months, then work freely with no sponsor for a fast-growing UK firm.

Intra-company transfer route for senior staff sent to a linked UK branch.