The Skilled Worker visa is the UK’s main work route. To qualify you need a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor, a role at graduate skill level (RQF 6), and a salary that meets the threshold, which is £41,700 a year or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher. This guide explains the current rules, the salary bands, how to apply, and how the route leads to settlement.
Who can get a Skilled Worker visa
You can apply if you have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence, the job is on the list of eligible occupations at RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree), and you are paid at least the required salary. You also need to prove your knowledge of English and show you can support yourself.
The salary threshold in 2026
Since 22 July 2025, the general salary threshold rose to £41,700 a year, and the required skill level returned to RQF Level 6. You must be paid the higher of the general threshold or the specific going rate for your occupation code. Some applicants qualify on lower thresholds.
| Applicant type | General threshold (or going rate if higher) |
|---|---|
| Standard applicant | £41,700 |
| PhD holder in a relevant subject | £34,830 |
| New entrant or shortage role | £30,960 |
These figures change, so confirm the current threshold and your occupation going rate on GOV.UK before you apply.
What you need to apply
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your licensed employer, containing details of the role and salary.
- Proof you meet the salary and skill requirements.
- Proof of English at the required level, usually an approved test.
- Enough personal savings to support yourself, unless your sponsor certifies your maintenance.
- Payment of the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
How long it lasts and how to extend
A Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to five years at a time. You can extend it as many times as you like, as long as you still meet the requirements and keep an eligible sponsored job. Time on this visa can count towards permanent settlement.
Settlement: an important 2026 change
The Skilled Worker route can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). As of 2026 the standard qualifying period is five years. However, the government has confirmed that the standard period will rise to ten years for most people under a new earned settlement model, expected from autumn 2026, with faster routes for higher earners and certain roles. If settlement is your goal, follow this change closely.
How to apply, step by step
- Secure a job offer from an employer with a valid sponsor licence.
- Receive your Certificate of Sponsorship from that employer.
- Check that your salary meets the higher of the threshold or the going rate.
- Apply online, prove your identity, and provide your documents.
- Pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge for the full visa length.
- Wait for a decision, then travel and collect or activate your visa.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa in 2026?
The general threshold is £41,700 a year, or the going rate for your specific occupation if that is higher. Lower thresholds of £34,830 and £30,960 apply to some applicants, such as PhD holders and new entrants.
Do I need a job offer before applying?
Yes. You must have a confirmed offer from a licensed sponsor and a Certificate of Sponsorship before you can apply.
Can my family come with me?
Yes. Partners and children can usually apply as your dependants, and each dependant pays their own visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Does the Skilled Worker visa lead to settlement?
Yes, but the timeline is changing. It is five years as of 2026, and is confirmed to rise to ten years for most people from autumn 2026. See our ILR guide.
For the full picture of UK routes and costs, see the UK visa guide for newcomers.
