Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

You must have a valid job offer from a UK-based employer who is licensed to sponsor skilled workers.

Salary Threshold

As of 2025, the minimum salary requirement is £38,700 per year or £15.88 per hour (subject to change based on job type and experience). Lower thresholds may apply to shortage occupations and new entrants.

English Language

You must prove your knowledge of English (at least CEFR Level B1), usually through an approved English test, unless exempt.

Financial Maintenance

You must have enough money to support yourself when you arrive in the UK (usually at least £1,270 available for 28 days) unless your sponsor agrees to cover your costs.

Visa Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (2025 Rates)

• Visa fee for stays up to 3 years: £719
• Visa fee for stays over 3 years: £1,420
• If your job is on the Shortage Occupation List, the fee may be lower (e.g. £551)
• The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £1,035 per year

All fees are paid online at the time of visa application.

Application Process – Step-by-Step

• 1. Secure a job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office
• 2.Receive your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• 3.Gather required documents, including passport, CoS reference, proof of English, and financial support
• 4. Apply online through the official UK Government visa portal
• 5. Pay visa and IHS fees
• 6.Attend your biometrics appointment at your nearest visa application centre
• 7.Await a decision – most applications are processed within 3 to 8 weeks

Duration and Settlement

• Skilled Worker Visas can be granted for up to 5 years
• You can apply to extend your visa or switch employers if needed
• After 5 years of continuous lawful residence, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship

Latest Policy Update – 2025

From April 2024, the UK Government implemented a significant salary increase to the Skilled Worker route. The general threshold now stands at £38,700, subject to annual review. Applicants must ensure that their employer and role meet all updated eligibility requirements before applying.

How Britannia Travel Consultant Pvt Ltd Can Assist You

With 11 years of professional visa consultancy experience, Britannia Travel Consultant Pvt Ltd offers expert, end-to-end support for individuals and companies applying for UK work visas.

We provide

• Job matching support through trusted UK employers (where available)
• Eligibility assessment based on skills, experience, and sponsor status
• Complete document preparation and compliance checks
• Guidance with CoS, visa fees, and IHS payments
• Support with visa application submission and biometrics
• AAdvisory for dependents, visa extensions, and ILR applications

Our goal is to help you build a successful future in the UK through a legal and structured immigration process—delivered with professionalism, honesty, and personal attention.