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Pick Time Consultancy
Work Permit

UK Skilled Worker Visa

Work in the UK for a Home Office–approved employer in an eligible skilled job. A route to settlement after 5 years.
Processing
Usually within 3 weeks
Government fee
From £819
Visa length
Up to 5 years

Overview

The Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2 General) lets you come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job for an employer with a sponsor licence. You need a confirmed job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before you apply.

We check your job, salary and CoS against the current rules, prepare your documents and guide your family members’ applications. After 5 years you may be able to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain).

Who can apply

The main requirements. A counsellor will check your situation in detail.

  • A confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office
  • A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for that role
  • The job is on the list of eligible occupations and meets the minimum salary
  • English at level B2 or above (reading, writing, speaking and listening)
  • At least £1,270 in savings for 28 days, unless your employer certifies your maintenance

Documents you’ll need

A typical list. We’ll give you a personal checklist in your consultation.

  • Valid passport
  • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
  • Proof of English language ability
  • Bank statements showing £1,270 (if required)
  • Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate
  • Criminal record certificate, for some jobs (e.g. health, education, social care)

Fees & timing

Processing time
Usually within 3 weeks from outside the UK; 8 weeks from inside the UK
Visa length
Up to 5 years, then extendable
Government fee
From £819 (up to 3 years) or £1,618 (over 3 years) when applying from outside the UK, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year). Lower fees apply for jobs on the immigration salary list.
Our service fee
Ask us for the current figure

Government fees and processing times change. We confirm the latest figures before you apply. Source: GOV.UK , checked on 19 September 2026.

How it works

  1. 1

    Free consultation

    Tell us your plans. We explain your options and honest chances.

  2. 2

    Your personal checklist

    We list exactly what you need and review every document.

  3. 3

    Application & biometrics

    We complete the forms with you and prepare you for your appointment.

  4. 4

    Decision & travel

    We track your application and help you get ready to go.

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? Ask a counsellor, it’s free.

Important information

Pick Time Consultancy is an independent consultancy. We are not part of, or endorsed by, UK Visas and Immigration, the Home Office or the Australian Department of Home Affairs. This page is general information, not legal advice, and immigration rules change often. Always check the official source before you apply.

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Study a full-time course at a UK university or college that holds a student sponsor licence.

Processing time
~3 weeks
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Talk to an expert

Get free advice on the UK Skilled Worker Visa

Tell us a little about your situation. A counsellor will check your eligibility and explain the next steps.

Preferred office

We reply within one working day. We never sell or share your details.