Complete Guide to UK Work Permit Visas | Professional Resource

Complete Guide to UK Work Permit Visas: 2024 Edition

Latest Update

This guide reflects all recent changes to UK work visa policies, including updates to the Skilled Worker visa salary thresholds and the new Immigration Salary List that replaced the Shortage Occupation List in April 2024.

Table of Contents

Introduction to UK Work Permit Visas

The United Kingdom offers several types of work visas for foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities. The UK work visa system underwent significant changes after Brexit, with the introduction of a points-based immigration system that treats EU and non-EU citizens equally.

This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of UK work permit visas, providing detailed information to help you navigate the complex application process successfully. Whether you're a skilled professional, healthcare worker, intra-company transferee, or temporary worker, this resource will help you understand your options and requirements.

Note: As of January 1, 2021, the UK implemented a new points-based immigration system. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens now need visas to work in the UK, just like other foreign nationals.

Types of UK Work Permit Visas

The UK offers several work visa routes, each with specific requirements and purposes. The main categories include:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

Replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa. For qualified workers with a job offer from an approved UK employer.

Key features: Minimum salary requirements, points-based, leads to settlement.

2. Health and Care Worker Visa

A dedicated route for medical professionals with job offers in the NHS or social care sector.

Key features: Lower application fee, faster processing, exempt from Immigration Health Surcharge.

3. Intra-Company Transfer Visa

For employees transferred to the UK branch of their current employer.

Key features: Two subcategories (Long-term Staff and Graduate Trainee), no settlement path.

4. Temporary Worker Visas

Includes several subcategories for short-term employment:

  • Creative and Sporting (up to 12 months)
  • Charity Worker (up to 12 months)
  • Religious Worker (up to 24 months)
  • Government Authorized Exchange (up to 24 months)
  • International Agreement (for diplomatic work)
  • Seasonal Worker (for agriculture up to 6 months)

5. Global Talent Visa

For recognized leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology.

Key features: No job offer required, flexible work conditions, fast track to settlement.

Skilled Worker Visa (Former Tier 2 General)

The Skilled Worker visa is the primary route for foreign nationals to work in the UK long-term. To qualify, you must:

  • Have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license
  • Be offered a job that's eligible for this visa (at RQF level 3 or above)
  • Be paid the minimum salary requirement (generally £38,700 or the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher)
  • Meet the English language requirement (CEFR B1 level)
  • Have enough personal savings to support yourself (usually £1,270 held for 28 days)

Points-Based System Requirements

You need 70 points to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa:

Criteria Points Details
Job offer from approved sponsor 20 Must have Certificate of Sponsorship
Job at appropriate skill level 20 RQF level 3 or above (A-level equivalent)
English language at required level 10 CEFR B1 (IELTS 4.0 or equivalent)
Salary threshold 20 £38,700 or going rate for occupation
Additional points for shortage occupation 20 If job is on Immigration Salary List
PhD in STEM relevant to job 10 Only for certain research positions

Salary Requirements

The general salary threshold is £38,700 or the going rate for your occupation (whichever is higher). Some exceptions apply:

  • New entrants: 30% discount on usual going rate (minimum £30,960)
  • Health/education jobs: Different salary scales may apply
  • PhD-level occupations: Different rules for STEM researchers

Health and Care Worker Visa

This visa is specifically for qualified doctors, nurses, and health professionals with job offers in eligible health sector roles.

Key Benefit: Health and Care Worker visa applicants are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), saving £1,035 per year.

Eligible Occupations

The Health and Care Worker visa covers the following professions (not exhaustive):

Occupation Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code
Medical practitioners 2211
Psychologists 2214
Pharmacists 2215
Ophthalmic opticians 2216
Dental practitioners 2217
Medical radiographers 2218
Podiatrists 2219
Physiotherapists 2221
Occupational therapists 2222
Speech and language therapists 2223
Therapy professionals not elsewhere classified 2229
Nurses 2231
Senior care workers 6145

Intra-Company Transfer Visa

This visa allows multinational companies to transfer employees to their UK branch for temporary periods.

Subcategories

There are two main types of Intra-Company Transfer visas:

Intra-Company Transfer Long-term Staff

For established employees being transferred to a UK role for more than 12 months.

Requirements:

  • Minimum salary: £45,800 or the going rate for the job (whichever is higher)
  • Must have worked for the company overseas for at least 12 months
  • Maximum stay: 5 years in any 6-year period

Intra-Company Transfer Graduate Trainee

For recent graduates participating in a structured graduate training program.

Requirements:

  • Minimum salary: £24,220 or 70% of the going rate for the job (whichever is higher)
  • Must have worked for the company overseas for at least 3 months
  • Maximum stay: 12 months

Important: Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, the Intra-Company Transfer route does not lead to settlement in the UK. After reaching the maximum time allowance, you must leave the UK for a "cooling-off" period before applying for another ICT visa.

Temporary Worker Visas

The UK offers several temporary work visa options for specific purposes and durations:

1. Creative and Sporting Visa

For individuals coming to the UK for up to 12 months to work in creative industries (film, television, theater) or as sportspeople.

2. Charity Worker Visa

For unpaid workers at registered charities for up to 12 months.

3. Religious Worker Visa

For those doing religious work within their faith organization for up to 2 years.

4. Government Authorized Exchange Visa

For participants in approved exchange programs for work experience, training, or research (up to 2 years).

5. International Agreement Visa

For workers covered under international law (diplomatic staff, employees of international organizations).

6. Seasonal Worker Visa

For agricultural workers coming to the UK for up to 6 months to work in edible horticulture.

Global Talent Visa

The Global Talent visa is for individuals who are recognized or show exceptional promise in specific fields.

Eligible Fields

  • Academia or research
  • Arts and culture
  • Digital technology

Application Process

The process has two stages for most applicants:

  1. Endorsement Application: Apply to an approved endorsing body to assess your talent or promise
  2. Visa Application: Once endorsed, apply for the visa within 3 months

Benefits

  • No job offer required
  • No minimum salary requirements
  • Flexible work conditions (can change jobs without notifying Home Office)
  • Fast track to settlement (3 years for exceptional talent, 5 years for promise)
  • Can be self-employed or work for multiple employers

General Eligibility Requirements

While specific requirements vary by visa type, most UK work visas share these common eligibility criteria:

  • Certificate of Sponsorship: From a licensed UK sponsor (except Global Talent)
  • Appropriate skill level: Job must meet minimum skill requirements
  • Salary threshold: Must meet minimum salary for the visa type
  • English language: Usually CEFR B1 level (IELTS 4.0 or equivalent)
  • Maintenance funds: Proof of sufficient personal savings (£1,270 for 28 days)
  • TB test: Required for residents of certain countries
  • Criminal record certificate: May be required for some jobs

Application Process Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to apply for a UK work visa:

1. Find an Eligible Job with a Licensed Sponsor

Your employer must be on the register of licensed sponsors.

2. Receive Certificate of Sponsorship

Your employer provides this reference number which contains information about the job and your personal details.

3. Prepare Required Documents

See the document checklist section for details.

4. Complete Online Application

Apply through the GOV.UK website.

5. Pay Application Fees

Visa fees vary by type and duration (see fees section).

6. Pay Immigration Health Surcharge

£1,035 per year (except Health and Care Worker visa).

7. Schedule Biometrics Appointment

At a visa application center in your country of residence.

8. Attend Interview (if required)

Some applicants may be called for a credibility interview.

9. Wait for Decision

Processing times vary (see processing times section).

10. Receive Visa Decision

If approved, you'll get a vignette (sticker) in your passport or a digital status.

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare these documents for your UK work visa application:

  • Current passport or travel document
  • Expired passports showing travel history
  • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Bank statements showing maintenance funds (£1,270 for 28 days)
  • Tuberculosis test results (if from listed country)
  • Criminal record certificate (for certain jobs)
  • Job offer letter and employment contract
  • Proof of qualifications (certificates, transcripts)
  • Previous UK visas or immigration stamps (if applicable)
  • Marriage certificate (if applying with spouse)
  • Children's birth certificates (if applying with dependents)

Translation Requirements: All documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation that includes:

  • Confirmation from the translator that it's an accurate translation
  • Date of translation
  • Translator's full name and signature
  • Translator's contact details

Visa Fees and Costs

UK work visa costs vary depending on the visa type, duration, and where you're applying from.

Skilled Worker Visa Fees

Application Type Fee (up to 3 years) Fee (over 3 years)
Main applicant (outside UK) £719 £1,423
Main applicant (inside UK) £827 £1,500
Shortage occupation (outside UK) £551 £1,084
Shortage occupation (inside UK) £637 £1,151
Dependents (each) £719 £1,423

Other Costs

  • Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year (£776 per year for students and under-18s)
  • Priority service (optional): £500 for faster processing
  • Super priority service (optional): £1,000 for next-day decision
  • Biometric enrollment: May have additional local service fees
  • Translation services: Varies by provider
  • Legal advice (optional): Typically £500-£2,000 depending on complexity

Processing Times

Standard processing times for UK work visas:

Visa Type Outside UK Inside UK
Skilled Worker 3 weeks 8 weeks
Health and Care Worker 3 weeks 8 weeks
Intra-Company Transfer 3 weeks 8 weeks
Temporary Worker 3 weeks 8 weeks
Global Talent 3 weeks (after endorsement) 8 weeks (after endorsement)

Note: Processing times begin when you've attended your biometric appointment. During peak periods (summer, before holidays), processing may take longer. You can pay for priority service to get faster decisions.

Bringing Family Members

Most UK work visas allow you to bring dependents (spouse/partner and children under 18).

Eligible Dependents

  • Spouse or civil partner
  • Unmarried partner (must prove 2+ year relationship)
  • Children under 18

Requirements for Dependents

  • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates)
  • Main applicant must show additional maintenance funds (£285 for spouse, £315 for first child, £200 for each additional child)
  • Dependents may need TB test if from listed country
  • Children aged 16-17 must prove they're not living independently

Dependent Rights

  • Work without restrictions (except Tier 5 dependents)
  • Study (children can attend school)
  • Access NHS healthcare (after paying IHS)
  • Travel in and out of UK

Switching Visa Categories in the UK

You may be able to switch to a work visa from another visa category without leaving the UK if you meet requirements.

Eligible Categories to Switch From

  • Student visa
  • Graduate visa
  • Start-up visa
  • Most work visas
  • Some family visas

Categories That Cannot Switch

  • Visit visa
  • Short-term study visa
  • Parent of a Child Student visa
  • Seasonal Worker visa
  • Domestic Worker in a Private Household visa

Important: When switching, you must meet all the requirements of the new visa category. You cannot switch if you've overstayed your current visa by more than 28 days.

Extending Your Work Visa

Most UK work visas can be extended if you continue to meet the requirements.

Extension Requirements

  • Still working for your sponsor (or new approved sponsor)
  • Job still meets skill and salary requirements
  • Meet English language requirement (if not already proven)
  • Maintenance funds (if switching sponsors)

Maximum Stay Limits

  • Skilled Worker: No maximum, can extend as long as requirements met
  • Health and Care Worker: No maximum
  • Intra-Company Transfer: 5 years in any 6-year period (Long-term Staff) or 12 months (Graduate Trainee)
  • Temporary Worker: Depends on category (usually 12-24 months)
  • Global Talent: Can extend in 1-5 year increments

Pathway to Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

Many UK work visas can lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years continuous residence.

Eligible Visa Categories

  • Skilled Worker visa (and former Tier 2 General)
  • Health and Care Worker visa
  • Global Talent visa (3 years for exceptional talent, 5 years for promise)
  • Some Minister of Religion visas

ILR Requirements

  • 5 years continuous lawful residence (with limited absences)
  • Still employed in eligible job at time of application
  • Meet salary threshold (£25,600 or going rate for occupation)
  • Pass Life in the UK test
  • Meet English language requirement (CEFR B1)
  • No serious criminal record
  • Not breached immigration laws

Note: Intra-Company Transfer visas do not lead to settlement. Time spent on this visa doesn't count toward the 5-year requirement for ILR.

Employer Sponsorship Requirements

For most work visas, your UK employer must be a licensed sponsor.

Becoming a Licensed Sponsor

Employers must:

  1. Apply for a sponsor license (£536 for small businesses, £1,476 for medium/large)
  2. Meet eligibility requirements (genuine organization operating legally in UK)
  3. Appoint key personnel (authorizing officer, key contact, level 1 user)
  4. Implement systems to monitor sponsored employees
  5. Comply with sponsor duties (reporting changes, keeping records)

Sponsor Responsibilities

  • Ensure migrant has necessary skills/qualifications
  • Only assign Certificates of Sponsorship for genuine vacancies
  • Report employee absences, changes in circumstances, or breaches
  • Keep copies of relevant documents
  • Cooperate with UKVI inspections

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

Understanding common refusal reasons can help you avoid mistakes in your application.

Top Refusal Reasons

  • Incorrect or missing documents: Failure to provide required evidence
  • Financial requirements not met: Insufficient maintenance funds or incorrect documentation
  • False information: Providing misleading or fraudulent documents
  • Previous immigration violations: Overstaying, working illegally, or breaches of previous visas
  • Criminal record: Unspent convictions that make applicant ineligible
  • Credibility concerns: Caseworker doubts genuine intention to work in approved role
  • Sponsorship issues: Problems with Certificate of Sponsorship or sponsor license
  • English language requirement: Failure to prove required proficiency
  • TB test requirement: Not providing test results if from listed country
  • Application errors: Mistakes in form, unpaid fees, or incorrect procedures

Appeals and Administrative Review

If your UK work visa is refused, you may have options to challenge the decision.

Administrative Review

If you believe UKVI made an error in processing your application, you can request an administrative review.

  • Cost: £80
  • Deadline: 28 days from refusal date
  • Processing time: Usually 28 days
  • Grounds: Caseworking error, not new evidence

Appeal Rights

Most work visa refusals don't carry full appeal rights, except when:

  • Human rights claims are involved
  • Refusal breaches EU Settlement Scheme rules
  • Certain family situations apply

Reapplying After Refusal

Often the best approach is to address refusal reasons and submit a fresh application.

  • Correct all issues identified in refusal notice
  • Provide additional evidence if needed
  • Consider professional advice if refusal was complex

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply for a UK work visa without a job offer?

A: Generally no, except for the Global Talent visa which doesn't require a job offer. All other work visas require sponsorship from a UK employer.

Q: How long can I stay in the UK on a work visa?

A: Depends on the visa type. Skilled Worker visas can be issued for up to 5 years at a time and extended indefinitely as long as requirements are met. Temporary Worker visas are limited to 12-24 months depending on category.

Q: Can I change employers on a UK work visa?

A: Yes, but you must apply to update your visa with your new sponsor before starting the new job. The new job must also meet visa requirements.

Q: Is there an age limit for UK work visas?

A: No, there's no upper age limit for most work visas. You must meet all other requirements regardless of age.

Q: Can I apply for permanent residence after my work visa?

A: Most work visas can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years continuous residence, provided you meet all requirements. The exception is Intra-Company Transfer which doesn't lead to settlement.

Q: How soon can I travel to the UK after getting my visa?

A: You can enter the UK up to 14 days before the start date on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

Q: Can my family work in the UK on dependent visas?

A: Yes, dependents of most work visa holders can work without restrictions, except dependents of some Temporary Worker categories.

Q: What happens if I lose my job while on a work visa?

A: You have 60 days to either find a new sponsor and apply to change your visa, or leave the UK. Your sponsor is required to report job termination to UKVI.

Q: Can I study while on a UK work visa?

A: Yes, you can study in addition to working, as long as your main purpose in the UK remains working for your sponsor.

Q: How can I prove my English language ability?

A: You can prove English through:

  • Passing an approved test (IELTS, Trinity, etc.)
  • Having an academic degree taught in English
  • Being a national of a majority English-speaking country

Additional Resources

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about UK work visas. Immigration rules change frequently, so always check GOV.UK for the most current information or consult with an immigration professional before applying.

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