UK Updates and Explains Work Visa Requirements and Process

As of June 2025, the United Kingdom has introduced significant reforms to its immigration and work visa system. These changes affect all foreigners who wish to live and work in the UK. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the various visa types, their eligibility requirements, associated costs, and the application process for prospective applicants.

Types of UK Work Visas in 2025

1. Skilled Worker Visa

For workers with job offers in eligible occupations from licensed UK sponsors.

• Common sectors Include Healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and finance.
• Can lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
• Dependents: Allowed in most cases (except certain care roles).

2. Health and Care Worker Visa

A sub-category of the Skilled Worker Visa for medical professionals.

• Faster processing & reduced fees.
• No Immigration Health Surcharge.
• Eligibility: NHS workers, adult social care, or medical services.

3. Global Talent Visa

For individuals recognised as leaders or emerging talents in specific fields.

• No job offer is needed.
• Fields: Science, humanities, engineering, digital tech, arts.
• Fast-track option available.

4. Scale-up Worker Visa

For high-growth companies that need to hire skilled workers quickly.

• A job offer is required, but only for the first 6 months.
• After that, workers can switch jobs without sponsorship.

5. Graduate Visa

For international students who have completed a UK degree.

• Stay duration: 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).
• No sponsorship or job offer is required.

6. Seasonal Worker Visa

Temporary visa for roles in horticulture, agriculture, and poultry.

• Duration: Up to 6 months.
• No dependents allowed.
• Sponsor required.

7. Youth Mobility Scheme

For young people (18–30) from certain countries.

• Duration: 2 years.
• No job offer is required.
• Country-specific quotas apply.

Eligibility Criteria 

To qualify, you must:

1. Have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor.
2. Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
3. Be applying for an eligible role listed by the Home Office.
4. Meet the salary thresholds of £38,700

Policy Changes Effective June 2025

1. Increased Salary Threshold: raised from £26,200 to £38,700 for Skilled Worker visa applicants.
2. Longer Route to Settlement: settlement (ILR) period extended from 5 years to 10 years
3. Removal of Shortage Occupation Salary Discount: The 20% salary discount for shortage roles is abolished.
4. Dependents Policy Updated

• Care workers and similar roles can no longer bring dependents.
• Other skilled workers may still sponsor dependents if eligible

     5. Tougher English Language Standards: higher English proficiency levels are required. And also applies more strictly to dependents as well.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

1. Get a Job Offer: from a UK employer licensed to sponsor foreign workers.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): The Employer assigns a CoS, valid for 3 months.
3. Prepare Documentation
   • Passport and CoS
   • Proof of English language
   • Proof of funds or an employer support letter
   • Tuberculosis test results (if required)
4. Apply Online: through the UK Home Office portal.
5. Pay Fees & Submit Biometrics
6. Receive Decision
7. Standard processing: 3 weeks from outside the UK.

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