How to Secure a UK Work Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Georgia Evans

 

How to Secure a UK Work Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

The UK is one of the most sought-after destinations for job seekers worldwide, offering opportunities across industries like IT, healthcare, construction, hospitality, and finance. However, to legally work in the UK, you need to obtain a work visa that matches your qualifications and job offer.

In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of UK work visas, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step application process to help you navigate your way to working in the UK.

1. Types of UK Work Visas

The UK government offers various work visa categories depending on your skills, job type, and duration of stay.

1.1 Skilled Worker Visa (Most Common Work Visa)

✅ Who is it for?

  • Professionals in industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction.
  • Must have a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor visas.

✅ Key Requirements:

  • Job must be on the UK’s Skilled Occupation List
  • Minimum salary threshold: £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour
  • Must meet English language requirements

✅ Validity:

  • Up to 5 years, extendable
  • Can lead to Permanent Residency (ILR)

1.2 Health and Care Worker Visa

✅ Who is it for?

  • Healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, caregivers, paramedics
  • Must have a job offer from the NHS, social care sector, or an approved healthcare employer

✅ Key Benefits:

  • Faster processing than a Skilled Worker Visa
  • Lower visa fees
  • No Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fees

1.3 UK Seasonal Worker Visa

✅ Who is it for?

  • Temporary workers in agriculture, poultry, or horticulture
  • Employers must be Home Office-approved sponsors

✅ Duration:

  • Up to 6 months (not extendable)

1.4 Global Talent Visa

✅ Who is it for?

  • High-skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, arts, and academia
  • No job offer is required—must be endorsed by an official UK body

✅ Key Benefits:

  • Work for any UK employer
  • Leads to Permanent Residency (ILR) after 3-5 years

1.5 UK Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work Visa)

✅ Who is it for?

  • International students who completed a degree from a UK university
  • Allows working in any field without employer sponsorship

✅ Validity:

  • 2 years (Bachelor’ s/Master’s)
  • 3 years (PhD holders)

2. UK Work Visa Requirements

To successfully apply for a UK work visa, you must meet the following:

✔ Job Offer from a UK Employer – Must be from a licensed sponsor
✔ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Provided by your UK employer
✔ Proof of Salary & Job Role – Meets the minimum salary threshold
✔ English Language Proficiency – IELTS or equivalent test (not required for some)
✔ Valid Passport & Identity Documents
✔ Criminal Record Check (for healthcare, childcare & security jobs)
✔ Medical Test Results – TB test (for applicants from certain countries)
✔ Proof of Funds – Minimum £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself initially

3. UK Work Visa Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for your UK work visa:

Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a UK Employer

Your employer must be Home Office-approved and provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary paperwork, including:
📌 Passport & visa-sized photos
📌 Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
📌 Proof of salary & job details
📌 English language test certificate (if applicable)
📌 TB test results (if required for your country)
📌 Proof of maintenance funds

Step 3: Apply Online for Your Visa

Go to the UK Government Visa Portal and complete the application form.

Step 4: Pay Visa Fees & Healthcare Surcharge

Visa fees vary depending on the visa type and duration.
💰 Skilled Worker Visa Fee: £610 - £1,408
💰 Health and Care Worker Visa Fee: £232 - £464
💰 Global Talent Visa Fee: £716

📌 Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year (except for Health and Care Workers)

Step 5: Book a Biometrics Appointment

Visit your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit fingerprints, photos, and documents.

Step 6: Wait for Approval

⏳ Processing Time:

  • Standard Processing: 3-8 weeks
  • Priority Service: 5 working days (extra fee)
  • Super Priority: 24 hours (extra fee)

Step 7: Travel to the UK & Start Work

Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive a vignette (visa sticker) in your passport. Upon arrival in the UK, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

4. Can You Bring Your Family?

Yes! Many UK work visas allow you to bring dependents (spouse & children under 18).
✔ Spouse/partner can work full-time in the UK
✔ Children can study in UK schools
✔ Proof of extra maintenance funds required

5. Can You Get UK Permanent Residency (ILR)?

Yes! If you hold a Skilled Worker, Health and Care, or Global Talent Visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after:
✔ 5 years of continuous work in the UK
✔ No major absences from the UK
✔ Pass the ‘Life in the UK’ Test

Final Thoughts

Securing a UK work visa can be challenging, but with the right job offer, proper documentation, and understanding of the process, your dream to work in the UK is achievable!

✅ Top Takeaways:
✔ Choose the right UK work visa based on your job role
✔ Get a job offer from a licensed UK employer
✔ Prepare all required documents before applying
✔ Apply early to avoid delays in processing

Need a UK job with visa sponsorship? 🚀 Atlas Manpower helps skilled professionals find UK job opportunities. Contact us today!

💬 Have questions about UK work visas? Drop them in the comments!

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