Skilled Worker Visa
Apply no earlier than 3 months before your employment start date. During busy periods, allow extra processing time beyond the standard 3 weeks.
- Toll Free: 1800-210-2427 / +91 77188 82427
- info@leamss.com
What is the Skilled Worker Visa (SW) Visa?
The main UK work route for Indian professionals. Points-based (70 points required): a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor at the required skill level and salary accounts for 50 mandatory points, with 20 tradeable points from salary, shortage occupation, or PhD qualification. Minimum salary: £41,700/year (April 2026). ILR after 5 continuous years.
Who is Eligible?
1
Job offer from a UK employer on the UKVI Register of Licensed Sponsors
2
Role at RQF Level 3 or above (A-level / NVQ Level 3 equivalent)
3
Salary of at least £38,700/year or the occupation going rate — whichever is higher
4
English language: IELTS 4.0+ or equivalent (CEFR B1 level)
5
Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by your UK employer
6
Personal savings of £1,270 if your employer does not certify maintenance
7
No serious criminal convictions that would bar entry to the UK
Step-by-Step Application Process
1
Secure job offer from licensed sponsor
Find a role with an employer on the UKVI Register of Licensed Sponsors. Check at gov.uk.
2
Receive Certificate of Sponsorship
Employer issues a CoS — unique reference confirming job, salary, role, and sponsorship.
3
Confirm 70 points
Use the UKVI points calculator at gov.uk to verify you meet all mandatory and tradeable criteria.
4
Apply online via UKVI
Complete the application at gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa, enter CoS number, upload documents.
5
Pay fee & IHS
Pay £943 per person for up to 3 years, and £1,865 per person for over 3 years plus £1,035/year IHS.
6
Biometrics & decision
Attend VFS Global biometrics in India. A standard decision takes 3 weeks.
Required Documents
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
Employment contract / offer letter
Employer's sponsor licence number
Degree certificates and transcripts
Professional registration or licence (if required for role, e.g. GMC for doctors)
English language test results (IELTS / SELT at B1 level)
Bank statements showing £1,270 (if employer does not certify maintenance)
TB test certificate from approved clinic in India
Valid Indian passport
Processing Time
3 weeks
Visa Application Fees
| Applicant Type | Fees |
|---|---|
Skilled Worker Visa – up to 3 years |
£943 |
Skilled Worker Visa – over 3 years |
£1,865 |
Immigration Health Surcharge (per year, 2026) |
£1,035/year |
Priority service (additional) |
£250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from within the UK?
Yes. If already in the UK on a Student, Graduate, or other eligible visa, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa without leaving the UK, provided you have a valid CoS and meet all requirements.
