United Kingdom Skilled Worker visa (2026): eligibility, cost and timeline
The Skilled Worker visa lets you work in the UK for an approved sponsor in an eligible job that meets a salary threshold. Thresholds and fees change; check GOV.UK.
Written by AlternateVisa editorial team · Reviewed by Dipika S, Director, Innovexsis Consulting LLP (not a licensed immigration adviser)
Last verified 2026-10-23 · against GOV.UK — Skilled Worker visa · How we check facts
Quick facts
| Route type | work |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Job offer from a UK Home Office-licensed sponsor; Certificate of sponsorship for an eligible occupation; Salary at or above the relevant threshold; English at level B1 |
| Typical timeline | Usually a decision within 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK; visa granted for up to 5 years and extendable. |
| Official page | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa |
Steps
- Get a job offer and certificate of sponsorship.
- Check salary and English requirements on GOV.UK.
- Apply online and pay the fee and health surcharge.
- Give biometrics and wait for a decision.
Costs
| Item | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee, up to 3 years (outside UK) | £819 | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs |
| Application fee, more than 3 years (outside UK) | £1,618 | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs |
| Immigration Health Surcharge, per year | £1,035 | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs |
| Funds to show (unless exempt) | £1,270 | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs |
| Standard minimum salary | £41,700 a year or the going rate, whichever is higher | https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-job |
Common refusal reasons
- Salary below the threshold
- Invalid or mismatched certificate of sponsorship
- English requirement not met
- False or misleading information (can lead to a ban)
Who should not use this route
- People without a licensed sponsor
- Self-employed people
Compare with
Official sources
Next step
Add up your costs with the visa cost calculator, then get your evidence checked with a Human Evidence Review.
AlternateVisa is an information platform operated by Innovexsis Consulting LLP. It is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Check official sources and a licensed professional before acting.