If you’re an international professional planning to work and live in the UK, the Skilled Worker Visa offers a legal and secure route to achieving that goal. With changes introduced in 2025, it’s essential to stay updated on new requirements, costs, and eligibility criteria.
In this complete guide, Farani Taylor Solicitors trusted UK immigration lawyers breaks down everything you need to know about applying for a Skilled Worker Visa in 2025.
What is a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa UK is designed for overseas professionals who have a confirmed job offer in the UK from a licensed sponsor. It allows you to live and work in the UK legally, bring eligible family members, and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) Work Visa and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
Who is Eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa in 2025?
To qualify for this visa in 2025, you must meet several updated requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsorship license
- Salary threshold: In most cases, a minimum annual salary of £38,700 (as updated in 2025)
- Skill level: Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations
- English proficiency: Prove English language ability through IELTS or equivalent
- Criminal record check: Clean background from your country of residence
- Sufficient personal savings (unless your employer covers your first 30 days)
Not sure if your job qualifies? Farani Taylor Solicitors can check your eligibility and help you take the next step.
Step-by-Step Skilled Worker Visa Application Process
Let’s break the process into five clear steps:
Step 1: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your UK employer must issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship—a unique reference number proving your job offer is genuine.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Proof of salary
- Proof of English proficiency
- Tuberculosis test result (if from a listed country)
- Financial documents (bank statements, if self-funded)
Step 3: Submit Your Online Application
Apply on the UK Government’s official visa portal. Choose the Skilled Worker Visa option and fill out the application accurately.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fees
- Visa Fee:
- £719 (up to 3 years)
- £1,420 (over 3 years)
- £719 (up to 3 years)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year
- Optional services: Priority/express processing
Step 5: Attend Biometric Appointment
Schedule your biometric data submission at a local visa application center. After that, await your decision (usually within 3–8 weeks).
Need faster results or guidance? Farani Taylor’s immigration experts can help you speed up the process and avoid common mistakes.
What Are the Visa Fees in 2025?
Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect in 2025:
| Fee Type | Amount |
| Visa Application Fee (up to 3 years) | £719 |
| Visa Application Fee (more than 3 years) | £1,420 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year |
| Priority Processing (Optional) | £500–£800 |
Note: Your employer may also pay part of the fee if they’re sponsoring you fully.
Duration of the Visa
- You can stay in the UK for up to 5 years under this visa.
- It is extendable as long as you continue meeting the criteria.
- After 5 years, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or permanent residency.
Bringing Dependents
You can bring your family with you:
- Spouse/partner
- Children under 18
They will each need to apply for a visa separately and must show proof of relationship and sufficient funds. Dependents can work or study in the UK.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these errors that often lead to visa refusal:
- Applying without a licensed sponsor
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Ignoring the new salary thresholds
- Mistakes in the online application form
- Not meeting English language standards
Tip: Let Farani Taylor handle your case from start to finish to avoid rejections and delays.
Why Choose Farani Taylor Solicitors?
At Farani Taylor Solicitors, we understand how complex UK immigration laws can be, especially with regular policy updates. Our experienced team has helped thousands of professionals move to the UK with confidence.
Here’s why applicants trust us:
- Deep knowledge of the 2025 immigration changes
- Personalized legal advice tailored to your profession
- 1-on-1 case management with a dedicated solicitor
- Fast-track support for urgent applications
- Multilingual support for international clients
Book a free consultation today and take the first step toward working legally in the UK.
Final Thoughts
The Skilled Worker Visa UK 2025 is a golden opportunity for skilled professionals who want to build a career in Britain. But the process can be overwhelming without expert support. Whether you’re applying for the first time or switching from another visa type, Farani Taylor Solicitors can help you every step of the way.
