WORK / UK VISA GUIDE
Skilled Worker visa.
Take the next step in your career.
A qualifying job offer is the starting point. Check the role, sponsorship and evidence before making your application.
General information · Sources checked 18 September 2026
THE ESSENTIALS
What you’ll need
to show.
An approved employer
You need an offer from a Home Office-approved sponsor and a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for that role.
An eligible job and salary
Your occupation, salary and going rate must meet the applicable rules. Requirements depend on your role, circumstances and sponsorship history.
English and maintenance
Meet the English requirement and show any required maintenance funds, unless an exemption or sponsor certification applies.
GET ORGANISED
Start with
the right evidence.
This is a starting point, not a complete document list. What you need depends on your circumstances.
- Your passport and Certificate of Sponsorship reference.
- The job title, occupation code, salary and employer details.
- Evidence of English and maintenance funds where required.
- Any required TB test, criminal record certificate or certified translations.
PLAN AHEAD
Costs & timing.
Budget for the application fee, any healthcare surcharge that applies and any optional services. Government charges are separate from adviser fees.
Processing times depend on the route, where you apply and your circumstances. Allow time to gather your documents; a published estimate is not a guaranteed decision date.
Check current fees and times on GOV.UK ↗GOOD QUESTIONS
A little more clarity.
Can I apply without a job offer?
This route requires a confirmed offer and sponsorship. It is not a general job-search visa.
Can I change employers?
You will normally need a new sponsorship certificate and an application to update your visa. Check the rules before starting the new job.
Can Dream Gate help with my application?
We’ll review your circumstances and immigration history before confirming whether we can help. If you need specialist advice, we’ll explain the appropriate next step before any work begins.
READ THE OFFICIAL GUIDANCE
Immigration rules change. These summaries are introductory information, not a complete assessment or a promise of an outcome.
Skilled Worker overview ↗Job and salary requirements ↗Documents to provide ↗Maintenance and costs ↗YOU DON’T NEED ALL THE ANSWERS YET.
Tell us about
your plans.
Start with a brief enquiry. We’ll discuss whether our support is the right fit and explain the next step.
support@dreamgateimmigration.com ↗Keep your first message brief. Please do not include passports, documents or sensitive personal information.