UK Tier 2 Visa
About UK
The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign state located in the northwestern part of mainland Europe. It lies off the northwest coast of mainland Europe and has significantly shaped the world’s politics, culture, and economics.
The UK has a mix of market economy principles and government intervention in its economy. It is a significant financial hub, with London’s City being one of the most prestigious financial centers. Other important economic sectors include manufacturing technologies, services, and creative industries.
The UK Skilled Worker visa permits applicants to enter or remain in the UK for suitable jobs with approved employers. It is designed to fill skilled job openings in the UK that local workers need help to fill.
Features of the UK Skilled Worker Visa
- It allows individuals to work legally in the United Kingdom in jobs that align with their skills and qualifications.
- Applicants may be able to apply for settlement, also known as indefinite leave to remain, after a specific period of continuous residency in the UK. This grants long-term residence rights and allows individuals to live and work without time restrictions.
- Dependents, including spouses or civil partners, unmarried partner, and children younger than 18, can accompany Tier 2 visa holders in the UK. Dependents can work or study during their visit, benefiting their educational or professional pursuits.
- Tier 2 visa holders have travel flexibility within and outside the UK during the validity period of their visa.
- Holders of Tier 2 visas and their family members can access public services in the UK, including healthcare services through the National Health Service (NHS) and education for children.
- Specific social security benefits, such as the state pension and maternity benefits, are available to Tier 2 visa holders. Eligibility for these benefits depends on factors like the duration of stay and National Insurance contributions.
It’s important to note that while the Tier 2 visa provides these benefits, obligations, and conditions are associated with it, including maintaining an employment relationship with a sponsor and adhering to immigration rules. It is recommended to consult UK Government sources and a lawyer for current and accurate details on the benefits and obligations of the Tier 2 visa.
Skilled workers from any nation can be selected based on the list of jobs in shortage without needing to pass a marketability test. They must submit a valid form with all required documents to the UK Embassy or consulate in their country.
The Eligibility Criteria for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
- Confirmation of a job offer.
- Working for a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
- Issuance of a sponsorship certificate by the employer, providing information about the job within the UK.
- Holding a position on the list of eligible jobs, which we can find on the UK Government website.
- Meeting the minimum salary requirements for the job.
- Demonstrating English proficiency at B1 level in reading, speaking, listening, and writing.
- Earning a minimum of 70 points through a points-based program.
To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, the UK sponsor must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to confirm eligibility. Authorized sponsors can issue the CoS; applicants must provide the reference number when applying to the Home Office.
The required documents for a UK Skilled Worker visa application include a Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, proof of English language proficiency, passport or identity copy, job details (name, annual salary, job code), employer’s name, and sponsor’s license number, and additional documents depending on individual circumstances (e.g., proof of relationship, funds, tuberculosis results, academic qualifications).
To extend a UK Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must complete the application online via the Home Office website, request an additional CoS from their employer, upload supporting documents, and pay the application fee and immigration healthcare surcharge.