The United Kingdom is outside the EU free movement area, so most foreign workers, including EU citizens without settled status, need a work visa. The main route is the Skilled Worker visa, and it is points-based.

In short: to work in the UK you usually need a Skilled Worker visa. That means a job offer from a licensed sponsor, a Certificate of Sponsorship, a role at the required skill level, a salary that meets the threshold, and English. The visa is applied for online with biometrics.

Who Needs a UK Work Visa?

Since Brexit, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens without settled or pre-settled status need a visa to work, as do other nationals. Irish citizens are an exception under the Common Travel Area.

The Skilled Worker Visa

You need a job offer from an employer that holds a sponsor licence and issues a Certificate of Sponsorship. The job must be on the eligible occupation list at the required skill level, and the salary must meet both the general threshold and the going rate for the role. You also need to prove English. Health and care roles use the Health and Care Worker route, and exceptional talent can use the Global Talent visa.

The Process Step by Step

• Secure a job with a licensed sponsor and a Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Check the salary and skill-level requirements for the role.
• Prove your English (an approved test, unless exempt).
• Apply online, pay the fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, and give biometrics.

Documents and Conditions

You will need a valid passport, your Certificate of Sponsorship reference, proof of salary and job details, evidence of English proficiency, and (sometimes) proof of funds and a criminal record certificate. The visa is tied to your sponsor, so changing employers normally requires a new sponsorship.

Salary and Settlement

The Skilled Worker route can lead to settlement after a qualifying period. Salary thresholds and the going rates are updated periodically, so check the current figures before you apply.

Avoiding Scams

A genuine work visa never requires you to pay an agent upfront placement fees or a fee for a guaranteed visa or job. In the United Kingdom, work authorisation is arranged through the employer or the official process, and consular or government fees are fixed and paid to the relevant authority. If anyone asks you to pay to secure a United Kingdom work visa or job, treat it as a likely scam, stop, and verify the employer and the authority through official channels.

Official Sources

Confirm current rules, fees, and salary thresholds with the Home Office (UK Visas and Immigration) and the United Kingdom immigration or consular authority, as procedures change.