UK Skilled Worker Visa 2026: Salary, Sponsors, Steps

The Skilled Worker Visa is the main work visa route into the United Kingdom. It replaced Tier 2 (General) and now underpins most sponsored employment in the UK. The visa can lead to permanent settlement after five continuous years.

Eligibility rests on three pillars: a genuine job offer from a UK employer holding a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, a role that appears on the eligible occupation list at the required skill level, and a salary that meets both the general threshold and the going rate for the specific occupation code.

In 2026 the general minimum salary is at the higher post-reform level. Certain shortage occupations, new entrants and PhD-relevant roles qualify for tradable discounts, but the salary must still meet or exceed the going rate for that specific SOC code.

English language requirement: CEFR level B1 across reading, writing, speaking and listening. This is usually demonstrated with a Secure English Language Test from an approved provider, or through nationality, or a recognised degree taught in English.

The visa itself is granted for up to five years and is renewable. Family members can be added as dependants with their own applications. After five years of continuous residence you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Application steps: receive the Certificate of Sponsorship from the sponsor, complete the online application, pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, book biometrics, and attend the appointment. Processing outside the UK is typically three weeks for standard service.

Common issues in 2026: salary just below the going rate for the occupation code, employers whose sponsor licence has cooling-off periods after prior compliance issues, and English test bookings taken at unapproved centres.

Travel Network Portal reviews the job offer, verifies the sponsor licence, calculates the correct going-rate benchmark, prepares your document package, and manages the full application. Start with Travel Network Portal or email info@travelnetworkportal.com.