Dreaming of a stable career and a secure future in UK? The Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2 Visa) offers a life-changing opportunity to work, live, and settle in UK while earning £10–£22 per hour. Whether you’re a caregiver, nurse, IT professional, or skilled trade worker, this visa provides not only employment but also the chance to bring your family, travel freely, and enjoy full employment rights. With faster applications for roles on the Shortage Occupation List, your path to permanent residency and a thriving career has never been more achievable.
Looking to work, settle, and build a future in UK? The Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2 Visa) is one of the most affordable and reliable ways to reach the UK, gain employment, and eventually apply for permanent residency after 5 years. It allows you to bring your family, travel freely, volunteer, and access the UK’s full employment rights.
Pro Tip: “Caregiver and healthcare roles are currently on the Shortage Occupation List, making visa applications faster and cheaper,” says Aisha Malik, HR Specialist for UK placements.
Overview of Skilled Worker Jobs in UK
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Visa Type | Skilled Worker Visa / Tier 2 Visa |
| Duration | 5 years, renewable |
| Salary Range | £10 – £22 per hour |
| Education Required | Minimum diploma or Bachelor’s degree (depends on occupation) |
| Experience Required | 0–2 years for most roles; 2 years for trade or care roles |
| Eligibility | Applicants from all nationalities |
Who Can Apply for Skilled Worker Jobs in UK?
Applicants from any nationality can apply, including:
- Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal
- Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria
- Saudi Arabia, UAE
- Trinidad & Tobago
You must have a job offer from a UK-approved employer and a certificate of sponsorship for an eligible occupation.
Salary & Fees
- Minimum Salary: Varies by occupation; Caregivers on the Shortage List: £479 for up to 3 years, £943 for more than 3 years.
- Average Hourly Rate: £11.79–£22.99 per hour (depends on job, experience, and employer).
- Visa Application Fees:
- Standard: £625 – £1,423
- Healthcare surcharge: £624/year
- Funds to support yourself: £1,270 (unless exempt)
Skilled Worker Visa – General Requirements
- Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK-approved employer.
- Eligible occupations are listed in the UK’s Shortage Occupation List.
- Minimum salary threshold set by the UK Home Office.
- English Language Requirement: Demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Funds to Support Yourself: Ensure minimum savings if applying from outside the UK.
Occupations on the UK Shortage List
- Trade Jobs: Bakers, Carpenters, Electricians, Hairdressers
- Healthcare & Social Care: Care Workers, Senior Care Roles, Nurses
- Other Skilled Roles: IT Professionals, Senior Managers
How Long Can You Stay on a Skilled Worker Visa?
- Initial Duration: 5 years
- After 5 Years: Eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR) in UK.
How to Find Skilled Worker Jobs in UK
- UK Government Approved Sponsors: www.gov.uk/find-a-sponsor
- Job Portals:
- Indeed
- Reed
- Glassdoor
- Nouveau Care
- Application Process:
- Obtain a certificate of sponsorship from a sponsoring employer
- Apply online for Tier 2 Visa
- Submit required documents (passport, sponsorship certificate, proof of funds, health surcharge payment)
How to Apply for Skilled Worker Visa
- Find a Job: Use UK government-approved sponsors or international recruitment agencies.
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
- Apply Online: Submit documents and pay visa and health surcharge fees.
- Travel to the UK: After visa approval, relocate and start work.
Conclusion
Skilled worker jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship offer an incredible pathway to work, settle, and eventually gain permanent residency. With occupations on the Shortage Occupation List, applicants benefit from reduced fees, faster processing, and higher salary rates. Caregivers, trade workers, and skilled professionals from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East can seize this opportunity to build a stable career in UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker Visa?
The minimum salary varies by occupation. For roles on the Shortage Occupation List, such as caregivers, the general threshold can be as low as £479 per year for up to 3 years or £943 per year for longer. Actual offered salaries typically range from £10 to £22 per hour.
What are the main costs involved?
Key costs include the visa application fee (typically £625–£1,423), the Immigration Health Surcharge (£624 per year), and proof of savings (£1,270) unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance. Shortage occupation roles benefit from lower application fees.
