The Skilled Worker visa is the most common way to move to the UK for a job, and it allows most applicants to bring their family with them.
1. You need a sponsor
Your UK employer must hold a sponsor licence and issue a certificate of sponsorship for your role.
2. Salary and skill thresholds
The job must meet a minimum skill level and salary threshold, which change from time to time. Check the current figures before accepting an offer.
Key point
Apply for the whole family together so everyone’s visa starts on the same date.
3. Bringing your family
A spouse or partner and children under 18 can usually apply as dependants. Each needs their own application, fees and the immigration health surcharge.
“Fifty-two people, and not one of them had to chase a document themselves.”
4. Timing the move
Decisions usually take three to eight weeks. Plan around school terms and give yourself time to collect and translate documents.
