The new Skilled Worker and Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) categories opened on 1 December 2020, replacing the Tier 2 (General) and Tier 2 (ICT) visas.
A Skilled Worker visa allows you to the come to the UK or remain in the UK to work for an employer.
What are the main requirements?
- In order to be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, you must be able to demonstrate that:
- You have a job offer and valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS);
- The role is a genuine vacancy;
- You have the skills and experience for the role;
- The role is at the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above – equivalent to A-level);
- You will be paid the appropriate salary for the role;
- You has the required level of English language;
- You have sufficient funds to maintain yourself and your dependants;
- You have a TB certificate, if required;
- You have a criminal record certificate, if required;
- You do not fall under the general grounds for refusal.
- Your partner and children can apply to join you or stay in the UK as you dependants, if they are eligible.
- Length and conditions of stay
- You must work for the sponsor in the role described on the CoS.
Skilled Worker visas will be granted in accordance with the work start and end date entered onto the CoS by the sponsor. The visa can last for up to five years before the visa needs to be extended. The visa will need to be updated if you change employer and, in some circumstances, if your job changes with the same sponsor. After five years, you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
Our experience in this area includes long relationships with individuals, international charities, a major university and colleges, numerous science spin outs, churches and mosques, along with a wide variety of businesses from the small and local to global enterprises with offices in every continent.