Skilled Worker Visa Applications - Immigration Solicitors Manchester
If you wish to work in the United Kingdom under the Skilled Worker route, it is essential that your application meets the strict requirements of the UK Immigration Rules. Errors in documentation, sponsorship issues, or failing to meet the salary threshold can result in refusal.
At TM Fortis Solicitors, our experienced immigration solicitors in Manchester provide expert legal advice to individuals and businesses applying under the Skilled Worker visa route. We assist clients throughout the UK and internationally with preparing strong applications that meet all Home Office requirements.
What Is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa is the main immigration route for overseas nationals who wish to work in the United Kingdom for an approved employer.
This visa replaced the previous Tier 2 (General) work visa and allows UK employers with a Home Office sponsor licence to recruit skilled workers from outside the UK.
Successful applicants are permitted to live and work in the UK for up to five years and may later become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Skilled Worker Visa Requirements
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet a number of requirements set by the Home Office.
Applicants must generally:
- Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer holding a valid sponsor licence
- Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from their employer
- Work in an occupation that meets the required skill level
- Meet the minimum salary threshold for the role
- Demonstrate English language ability
- Have sufficient funds to support themselves in the UK (unless certified by the sponsor)
Points are awarded based on these factors and applicants must meet the minimum points threshold in order to qualify for the visa.
Skilled Worker Visa Salary Requirements
The Skilled Worker visa includes minimum salary thresholds that depend on the type of role and occupation code.
In most cases applicants must be paid at least:
- The general salary threshold, or
- The going rate for the occupation
The Home Office salary rules can be complex, particularly where reduced salary thresholds may apply in cases such as:
- Shortage occupation roles
- New entrants to the labour market
- Certain health and education roles
Employers must ensure that the correct salary requirements are met when assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A Certificate of Sponsorship is an electronic record issued by a licensed sponsor confirming that a worker has been offered a qualifying role.
The certificate contains information about:
- The role being offered
- The salary
- The start date of employment
- The sponsor details
Applicants must include the reference number from the Certificate of Sponsorship when submitting their visa application.
Skilled Worker Visa Duration
A Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to five years at a time, depending on the duration of the job offer.
The visa may be extended as long as the applicant continues to meet the requirements of the route.
After five years of lawful residence, many applicants may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement) in the UK.
Switching to the Skilled Worker Visa
Many individuals already in the UK may be able to switch to the Skilled Worker visa route from another immigration category.
Examples may include individuals currently in the UK on:
- Student visas
- Graduate visas
- Dependant visas
- Certain temporary worker visas
However, some immigration categories do not permit switching from within the UK and legal advice may be required before submitting an application.
Skilled Worker Visa for Employers
UK employers wishing to hire overseas workers must first obtain a Home Office sponsor licence.
Once approved, employers can:
- Assign Certificates of Sponsorship
- Recruit skilled workers from overseas
- Sponsor existing employees who require immigration permission
Sponsor licence holders must also comply with strict ongoing duties, including reporting and record-keeping requirements.
Failure to comply with these obligations may result in sponsor licence suspension or revocation.
Common Reasons for Skilled Worker Visa Refusals
Despite meeting the general criteria, applications can be refused for a number of reasons.
Common issues include:
- Incorrect or invalid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Salary that does not meet the required threshold
- Errors in sponsor documentation
- Insufficient supporting evidence
- Failure to meet English language requirements
Refusals can cause significant delays and may affect future immigration applications.
Seeking legal advice before submitting an application can greatly reduce the risk of refusal.
How Our Skilled Worker Visa Solicitors Can Help
Our immigration solicitors provide comprehensive assistance with Skilled Worker visa applications for both individuals and businesses.
We assist with:
- Skilled Worker visa applications from overseas
- Switching to the Skilled Worker route within the UK
- Sponsor licence applications for UK employers
- Assigning Certificates of Sponsorship
- Skilled Worker visa extensions
- Applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years
- Challenging visa refusals and administrative reviews
We ensure that applications are prepared carefully and supported by the correct documentation before submission to the Home Office.
Why Choose TM Fortis Solicitors?
Immigration applications require careful preparation and a detailed understanding of the Immigration Rules.
Our Manchester immigration solicitors provide:
- Clear and practical legal advice
- Detailed assessment of eligibility before applying
- Careful preparation of supporting documentation
- Assistance for both individuals and UK businesses
We aim to ensure that each application is submitted with the strongest possible evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions – Skilled Worker Visa
How long does a Skilled Worker visa application take?
Processing times vary depending on whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK. Many applications are processed within several weeks, although priority services may be available.
Can my family join me in the UK?
Skilled Worker visa holders can usually bring their dependants, including a spouse or partner and children, provided they meet the relevant requirements.
Can I change employers on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes. However, a new employer must hold a valid sponsor licence, and a new visa application may be required before you start work.
Can a Skilled Worker visa lead to settlement?
Yes. After five years of continuous residence, many Skilled Worker visa holders may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Speak to Our Immigration Solicitors in Manchester
If you require advice about the Skilled Worker visa route or sponsor licence requirements, our experienced immigration solicitors are here to assist.
Contact TM Fortis Solicitors today on 0161 220 6040 to discuss your circumstances and receive expert legal advice on your immigration application.
