Explore UK Work Visas
Your Gateway to Professional Opportunities
The United Kingdom offers a diverse range of work visa routes tailored to skilled professionals, graduates, entrepreneurs, and temporary workers. Whether you're seeking to build a long-term career or gain short-term experience, understanding your visa options is the first step toward working legally and successfully in the UK.
UK Work Visa Categories
Skilled Worker Visa
This is the UK’s primary work visa route for qualified professionals. To apply, you must:
- Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Meet the salary threshold
- Demonstrate English language proficiency
This visa can lead to settlement after 5 years.
Health and Care Worker Visa
Designed for medical professionals such as nurses, doctors, and care workers. Benefits include:
- Reduced visa fees
- Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Fast-track processing
Applicants must have a job offer from an approved UK health or care sector employer.
Global Talent Visa
Ideal for leaders or emerging talents in fields like science, engineering, humanities, and digital technology. No job offer is required, but endorsement from an approved body is essential. This visa offers flexibility and a fast route to settlement.
Scale-up Visa
For individuals joining fast growing UK businesses. You must:
- Have a highly skilled job offer from a registered scaleup company
- Meet salary and English language requirements
This visa allows greater job mobility after the initial 6 months.
Graduate Visa
Open to international students who’ve completed a UK degree. It allows:
- 2 years of post-study work (3 years for PhD graduates)
- No sponsorship requirement
- Freedom to work in most roles
Temporary Worker Visas (T5)
Covers short-term roles including:
- Seasonal work (e.g. agriculture)
- Creative and sporting roles
- Charity and religious workers
These visas are typically valid for 6–24 months depending on the category.
Innovator Founder Visa
For entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas endorsed by an approved UK body. Applicants must:
- Demonstrate a viable, scalable business plan
- Have at least £50,000 in investment funds (some exceptions apply)
This visa can lead to settlement after 3 years.
Application Essentials
To apply for most UK work visas, you’ll need:
- A valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship (if applicable)
- Proof of English language ability
- Evidence of financial support or maintenance
- Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries)
- Application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (unless exempt)
Choosing the Right Visa
Selecting the correct visa depends on your:
- Profession and qualifications
- Sponsorship status
- Long-term goals (e.g. settlement, career progression)
- Financial capacity and English proficiency
For tailored advice, consult a regulated immigration adviser or legal professional.