Thinking about starting a new job or career in the United Kingdom? Understanding the current work visa UK system is the first step toward legally working and settling in Britain. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about work visa types, eligibility, and how to apply in 2025.
What Is a UK Work Visa?
A UK work visa allows foreign nationals to legally work in the United Kingdom for a specific employer or sector. It is typically sponsored by a UK-based employer and may lead to permanent residency.
Types of UK Work Visas in 2025
1. Skilled Worker Visa
- For people with a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor
- Minimum salary: £26,200/year or £10.75/hour
- Occupations list includes healthcare, IT, engineering, teaching
2. Health and Care Worker Visa
- Fast-tracked for medical professionals (nurses, doctors, care workers)
- Lower salary threshold
- Exempt from Immigration Health Surcharge
3. Global Talent Visa
- For leaders or potential leaders in academia, arts, tech
- No job offer required, but endorsement is needed
4. Graduate Visa
- For international students who finished a UK degree
- Stay up to 2 years (3 for PhD grads) to find or take employment
5. Temporary Worker Visas
- Includes Seasonal Worker Visa, Charity Worker, Creative Worker
- Short-term roles, usually up to 12 months
General Work Visa Requirements
Eligibility Criteria:
- Valid job offer from an approved UK sponsor (except Graduate/Global Talent)
- English language proficiency (usually CEFR B1 level)
- Proof of funds: £1,270 in bank account (unless exempt)
- Valid passport and biometric data
Documents Needed:
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Proof of qualifications
- TB test (if from certain countries)
- Criminal record certificate (for certain jobs)
How to Apply for a UK Work Visa
Outside the UK:
- Apply online at gov.uk
- Pay application fee and immigration health surcharge (if required)
- Book a biometric appointment
- Submit supporting documents
Inside the UK:
- Apply to switch or extend your visa using appropriate forms (e.g. Skilled Worker route)
Processing Time and Costs
- Standard processing: 3–8 weeks
- Priority service: 5 working days (extra fee)
- Super priority service: Next working day (limited availability)
Fees (2025 estimates):
- Skilled Worker: ~£719 to £1,500 (depending on duration & job type)
- Health Surcharge: £1,035/year per person (if applicable)
Can a Work Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
Yes. After 5 years on most long-term work visas (e.g. Skilled Worker), you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later, UK citizenship.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a valid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Not meeting the English or financial requirements
- Missing the deadline for switching or extending
FAQ: Work Visa UK
Yes, in most cases. Exceptions include the Global Talent and Graduate visas.
Typically 3–5 years, depending on the visa type and job contract.
Yes, dependents (spouse/partner and children) can join you if you meet financial requirements.
Yes, but you must get a new Certificate of Sponsorship and apply to update your visa.
Yes, the Temporary Worker category includes Seasonal Worker Visas for agriculture and hospitality.
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