Imiatlas

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

United Kingdom Work Visa: requirements and how to apply

United Kingdom has 2 work visa routes: Skilled Worker Visa, Global Talent Visa.

Official United Kingdom work visa page

Skilled Worker Visa

Core employment pathway allowing individuals to work in qualifying positions with licensed UK sponsors.

Typical duration
Up to 5 years
Path to permanent residency
Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years

Main requirements

  • Minimum 70 points
  • Valid CoS
  • B1 English proficiency

Official page

Global Talent Visa

For leaders and potential leaders in academia, research, arts, and digital technology without requiring an employer job offer.

Typical duration
Up to 5 years
Path to permanent residency
Fast-track ILR after 3 years (exceptional talent) or 5 years (exceptional promise)

Main requirements

  • Endorsement from Tech Nation, Royal Society, British Academy, or Arts Council

Official page

Documents usually needed for United Kingdom

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office licensed sponsor
  • Job offer in an eligible occupation code meeting general salary threshold (or shortage reduction)
  • Proof of English proficiency at CEFR B1 level (SELT approved exam or degree taught in English)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment and tuberculosis test certificate if required
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months and a compliant photo (make yours here)

Application steps

  1. 1

    Obtain Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

    UK employer assigns reference number establishing salary and job code compliance.

    1 - 2 weeks

  2. 2

    Online UKVI Application & IHS Surcharge

    Complete online form, pay NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, and book biometric appointment via VFS/TLScontact.

    3 - 8 weeks

  3. 3

    Digital eVisa & Share Code

    Access status digitally through UKVI online eVisa account or collect BRP.

    Immediate post-grant

More about moving to United Kingdom

Find a licensed adviser

For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.

General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) & Home Office on the official website before applying.