UK Skilled Worker Visa (Points-Based System)
The United Kingdom's primary sponsored employment route for skilled international professionals.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The UK Skilled Worker Visa under Appendix Skilled Worker is the backbone of the UK corporate immigration system. It enables UK businesses holding a Worker Sponsor Licence to recruit international candidates for eligible jobs skilled to RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or above.
The 70-Point Threshold Explained
Applicants must score a minimum of 70 points across mandatory and tradeable criteria:
- Mandatory 50 Points:
- Offer of a genuine job from an approved licensed sponsor with a valid CoS (20 points).
- Job at an appropriate skill level of RQF Level 3 or higher under SOC 2020 codes (20 points).
- English language proficiency at CEFR Level B1 (10 points).
- Tradeable 20 Points: Salary meeting the general threshold (£38,700 standard) and 100% of the occupation's going rate; OR qualifying for salary tradeable options (e.g. relevant STEM PhD, shortage occupation list, or new entrant discount paying at least £30,960 and 70% of the going rate).
New Entrant Salary Discount
International graduates switching from a Student or Graduate visa, individuals under 26, or postdoctoral researchers qualify as New Entrants. This reduces the general salary threshold to £30,960 and 70% of the going rate for up to 3 years.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- General salary threshold: £38,700 (or £30,960 for eligible new entrants/switchers).
- Must be sponsored by a Home Office licensed sponsor with a valid Defined or Undefined CoS.
- 5-year continuous residence pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- Secondary employment permitted for up to 20 hours per week in eligible roles.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Job Offer & CoSSecure job offer from licensed sponsor; sponsor assigns Certificate of Sponsorship via SMS.
- English & MaintenancePass CEFR B1 English test (or prove degree) and show £1,270 maintenance funds (unless certified by sponsor).
- Apply OnlineSubmit visa on GOV.UK, pay application fee and IHS (£1,035/year).
- Biometrics & DecisionDecision standardly issued in 3 weeks (abroad) or 8 weeks (in UK).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Skilled Worker bring their family dependents?
Yes! Unlike student courses, Skilled Worker visa holders are entitled to bring their spouse/partner and dependent children under 18 to the UK. Dependents receive full working rights in the UK.
Can I switch employers on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes. You can change employers at any time, but your new employer must hold a sponsor licence and assign you a new CoS, and you must obtain approval for a 'change of employment' visa before starting the new job.
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.