UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Calculator
Assess your potential for a UK Skilled Worker visa using our instant points-based calculation tool, updated for September 2025 rules including new graduate-level requirements.
Major Changes Implemented July 2025
The UK government introduced significant reforms to the Skilled Worker visa on July 22, 2025. Key changes include:
- Graduate-level requirement: Jobs must now be at RQF Level 6+ (bachelor's degree equivalent) instead of RQF Level 3+
- Higher salary thresholds: General minimum increased from £38,700 to £41,700
- Increased costs: Certificate of Sponsorship fees rose from £239 to £525
Existing visa holders in lower-skilled roles have transitional protection until further review.
Understanding UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility
The UK employs a points-based immigration system for work visas. To qualify for the main route, the Skilled Worker visa, international candidates typically need sponsorship from a UK employer holding a sponsor license. Major reforms in July 2025 introduced graduate-level requirements and higher salary thresholds.
Key Requirements for Job Seekers (You)
- 1Job Offer & CoS: You must have a job offer with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer holding a valid sponsor license.
- 2Graduate Skill Level: The job must be at RQF Level 6+ (bachelor's degree equivalent) and listed in the eligible occupations. Check your job's SOC code.
- 3Salary: Your salary must meet the minimum threshold (generally £41,700 or the job's 'going rate', whichever is higher, as of September 2025). Exceptions apply (see points section).
- 4English Language: Proficiency at CEFR level B1 is required, proven via an approved test, a degree taught in English, or nationality.
- 5Financial Requirement: Proof of £1,270 in savings held for 28 days, unless your A-rated sponsor certifies maintenance on your CoS.
Skilled Worker Points Breakdown (Need 70 Total)
Points are awarded across mandatory and tradeable characteristics.
Mandatory (50 points required):
- +20 points: Job offer from licensed sponsor
- +20 points: Job at graduate skill level (RQF 6+)
- +10 points: English language skills (B1 level)
Tradeable (20 points required from ONE of these options):
- +20 points: Salary ≥ £41,700 (or going rate, whichever is higher)
- +20 points: Job on Immigration Salary List (ISL) (min salary £33,400)
- +20 points: PhD in relevant STEM subject (min salary £33,400)
- +20 points: 'New entrant' to labour market (min salary £30,960)
- +10 points: PhD in relevant non-STEM subject (min salary £37,530) - *Note: This alone is not enough unless combined with other points not typical for standard Skilled Worker.*
What Employers Need to Do
- Hold a valid Sponsor License from the Home Office.
- Ensure the job is genuine, meets the graduate skill level (RQF 6+), and salary requirements.
- Assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the worker (cost: £525).
- Comply with reporting and monitoring duties for sponsored workers.
Application Process Snapshot
- Secure job offer and CoS from a licensed sponsor.
- Apply online via the GOV.UK website.
- Pay the visa fee (£769 - £1,751) and Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year).
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints/photo).
- Wait for decision (typically 3 weeks outside UK, 9 weeks inside UK).
- If approved, receive visa/permission to travel and work.
Note: Processing times and fees can vary. Current inside UK processing is extending to 9 weeks due to high demand.
This information is for guidance only and reflects rules as of September 2025. Immigration regulations change frequently. Always refer to the official GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa page or consult a qualified immigration advisor for definitive advice.
Ready to Calculate Your Skilled Worker Points?
Use our interactive calculator for an instant assessment based on the September 2025 requirements including graduate-level skill requirements and updated salary thresholds.
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