Overview of UK Work Visas
In This Guide
The UK Points-Based Immigration System
The UK's immigration system uses a points-based approach to determine eligibility for work visas. This system was fully implemented after Brexit, replacing free movement for EU citizens with a unified approach for all nationalities.
Key Features of the Points-Based System
- Applicants must score a minimum number of points to qualify
- Points are awarded for specific skills, qualifications, salaries, and job offers
- Most work routes require a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Focus on attracting skilled workers in shortage occupations
- English language requirements for most visa categories
Under this system, the UK government aims to attract the "brightest and best" talent from around the world while maintaining control over immigration numbers. The points-based system applies to both EU and non-EU citizens equally, creating a level playing field for international talent.
Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa is the UK's main work visa category, replacing the former Tier 2 (General) visa. It allows qualified workers to come to the UK for a specific job with an approved employer.
Eligibility Requirements
- Job offer from a UK licensed sponsor
- Job at appropriate skill level (RQF 3 or above)
- Meet the English language requirement
- Salary meets minimum threshold (generally £26,200)
- Criminal record check/tuberculosis test (if applicable)
Key Benefits
- Visa length up to 5 years (renewable)
- Ability to bring dependent family members
- Path to settlement after 5 years
- Flexibility to change employers (with new sponsorship)
- No caps or quotas on visa numbers
The Skilled Worker visa requires a minimum of 70 points to qualify. You automatically receive 50 points for having a job offer at the appropriate skill level from a licensed sponsor. The remaining 20 points can be earned through a combination of salary, job in shortage occupation, and relevant PhD qualification.
Points Breakdown
| Requirement | Points | Tradeable? |
|---|---|---|
| Job offer from approved sponsor | 20 | No |
| Job at appropriate skill level | 20 | No |
| English language at B1 level | 10 | No |
| Salary of £26,200 or above | 20 | Yes |
| Job in shortage occupation | 20 | Yes |
| PhD in relevant field | 10 | Yes |
The Skilled Worker visa can lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, provided you maintain your sponsored status and meet other requirements.
Global Business Mobility Visas
The Global Business Mobility (GBM) route is designed for overseas businesses seeking to establish a presence in, or transfer staff to, the UK. This route has five subcategories catering to different business needs.
Senior or Specialist Worker
For senior managers or specialist employees being transferred to a UK branch of their organization.
- Replaces the Intra-Company Transfer visa
- Requires 12 months' previous employment (unless high earner)
- Maximum stay of 5 years in any 6-year period
- Higher salary threshold than Skilled Worker (£45,800)
- Does not lead to settlement
Graduate Trainee
For employees on a graduate training program being transferred to a UK branch for training purposes.
- Requires 3 months' previous employment with overseas company
- Must be part of a structured graduate training program
- Maximum stay of 12 months
- Lower salary threshold than Senior Worker (£24,220)
- Does not lead to settlement
UK Expansion Worker
For senior managers or specialists establishing a new branch or subsidiary in the UK.
- Requires overseas business to have no existing UK presence
- Initial permission for 12 months with maximum stay of 2 years
- Focus on setting up the UK operation
- Does not lead to settlement
Service Supplier
For contractual service suppliers and self-employed independent professionals providing services under international trade agreements.
- Based on specific trade agreements (like UK-EU TCA)
- Maximum stay of 12 months in any 6-year period
- Job must be on the eligible occupations list
- Does not lead to settlement
Secondment Worker
For employees being seconded to the UK as part of a high-value contract between their employer and a UK business.
- Requires a high-value contract (usually £50+ million)
- Maximum stay of 12 months
- Must have worked for overseas business for at least 12 months
- Does not lead to settlement
Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, GBM routes are temporary and do not lead to settlement in the UK. They are designed for specific business scenarios and international assignments rather than permanent relocation.
Scale-up Visa
The Scale-up visa was introduced in 2022 as a fast-track route for talented individuals to work in the UK's fastest-growing businesses. It offers more flexibility than the Skilled Worker route after the initial sponsored period.
Key Features
- Initial 2-year permission with first 6 months sponsored by a qualifying Scale-up company
- After 6 months, freedom to work without sponsorship (self-sponsored period)
- Aimed at high-growth businesses with annual growth of at least 20%
- Higher salary threshold than Skilled Worker (usually £34,600+)
- Can lead to settlement after 5 years
- Eligible to bring dependent family members
The Scale-up visa offers a unique hybrid approach: the security of employer sponsorship initially, followed by the flexibility to change jobs or work as a freelancer without needing a new sponsor. This balance makes it attractive for highly skilled workers who value career flexibility.
What is a Scale-up Company?
To qualify as a Scale-up sponsor, a company must:
- Have had at least 10 employees at the start of the 3-year period
- Demonstrate annualized growth in either employment or turnover of at least 20% over the last 3-year period
- Hold a valid Scale-up sponsor license
While the Scale-up visa provides exceptional flexibility, the higher qualifying criteria for both employers and workers means it's targeted at a specific segment of the market. Many workers may still find the Skilled Worker route more accessible.
Other Visa Routes
Beyond the main work visa categories, the UK offers several specialized routes for particular professions, skills, or circumstances. These alternative pathways may be more suitable depending on your specific situation.
Health and Care Worker Visa
A dedicated route for qualified doctors, nurses, health professionals, and adult social care workers. It offers a 50% reduction on visa fees and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge, making it a cost-effective option for healthcare professionals.
Global Talent Visa
For leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts and culture, or digital technology. This route doesn't require a job offer but does need endorsement from a relevant UK body. It offers significant flexibility and can lead to settlement after 3 or 5 years.
High Potential Individual Visa
For recent graduates from top global universities. This 2-year visa (3 years for PhD graduates) allows individuals to work, look for work, or be self-employed in the UK without sponsorship. It doesn't directly lead to settlement but can provide a pathway to other routes.
Minister of Religion / Religious Worker
For those coming to the UK to work within a faith community. The Minister of Religion route is for those in leadership positions, while the Religious Worker route is for non-pastoral roles. Both require sponsorship from a licensed religious institution.
International Sportsperson
For elite sportspeople and qualified coaches recognized by their sport's governing body as internationally established at the highest level. Requires endorsement from the relevant sporting body and a job offer from a UK sponsor.
Youth Mobility Scheme
For young people (18-30) from specific countries to experience life in the UK for up to 2 years. No sponsorship is required, and participants can work or study throughout their stay. Currently available to nationals of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, and several other countries.
Each of these specialized routes has unique eligibility criteria, application processes, and conditions. Consider your personal circumstances, career goals, and long-term plans when determining which visa route is most appropriate for you.
Next Steps
Now that you understand the different UK visa options, your next steps will depend on your personal circumstances and the visa route most suitable for you.
Finding a UK Sponsor
Learn how to identify and approach licensed UK companies that can sponsor your visa.
Checking Your Eligibility
Understand the detailed requirements for your chosen visa route and assess your likelihood of approval.
Additional Resources
- UK Government Work Visa Information - Official guidance on all visa types
- Skilled Worker Eligible Occupations List - Check if your job qualifies
- UK Government Find a Job Service - Search for job opportunities in the UK
- Work Sponsors Database - Search for UK companies licensed to sponsor visas