Stage 2 · Lesson 3 of 5
UK: the Skilled Worker visa
The UK needs a job offer from an employer with a , who gives you a (a reference number for your role). The job must be at the required skill level, which since July 2025 generally means graduate-level roles, and the salary must be at least 41,700 pounds a year or the for the occupation, whichever is higher, as of October 2026.
A lower new entrant rate (70 percent of the going rate, at least 33,400 pounds) can apply if you are under 26, a recent graduate or in professional training. Since 8 January 2026, new applicants need English at level B2. You also pay a visa fee and the , usually 1,035 pounds a year.
Common trapaccepting an offer below the threshold, which cannot be sponsored however much the company likes you.
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Resources for this stage
Start with· follow one of these
- GuideFreeUK Skilled Worker visa (GOV.UK)
UK Home Office (GOV.UK)
The full Skilled Worker rules: skill level, salary, English, fees and family
- GuideFreeIreland employment permits (Critical Skills and General)
Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Ireland
Critical Skills and General Employment permits, thresholds and Stamp 4
Practise
Keep handy
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