What is the first step in applying for a Skilled Worker visa?

The process begins when an employer holding a sponsor licence assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship to the applicant. Following this, the individual must submit an online application via the GOV.UK portal. The application requires payment of the relevant visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge before proceeding to the biometric appointment stage.

How much does it cost to apply for a Skilled Worker visa?

Applicants must pay a visa fee of £719 for stays of three years or less, or £1,420 for longer periods. Additionally, the Immigration Health Surcharge is charged at £1,035 per year. These costs are payable during the online application process on the GOV.UK portal.

How long does it take to get a decision on a Skilled Worker visa?

Standard processing takes three weeks. Applicants can opt for a priority service, which reduces the decision time to five working days for an additional fee. After the decision, if granted, the applicant receives a vignette or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). If refused, administrative review or appeal may be possible depending on the grounds.

Where do I provide my biometrics for a Skilled Worker visa?

Applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo. If applying from overseas, this is done at a Visa Application Centre. If applying from within the UK, the appointment is held at a UKVCAS centre. This step is required after submitting the online application and paying the fees.

Can I get permanent residency after holding a Skilled Worker visa?

After five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK as a Skilled Worker, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. This application is subject to meeting specific requirements, including salary thresholds, English language proficiency, and passing the Life in the UK test.

All Legal Journeys

Immigration Law

UK-wide

5 stages

3 weeks (standard) to 5 working days (priority)

Reviewed 2026-05-22

Skilled Worker visa application journey

From sponsor Certificate of Sponsorship through Home Office decision to BRP and ILR.

This page covers UK-wide law. Where local procedure differs (e.g. courts or tribunals), this is noted in the relevant section.

Who Uses This Journey

Overseas nationals applying for a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK; current Skilled Worker visa holders applying to extend or settle.

Stage-by-Stage Timeline

Sponsor secures CoS

Employer with a sponsor licence assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship to the applicant.

Apply online

Application via the GOV.UK portal. Currently £719 (≤3yr) or £1,420 (3yr+) plus Immigration Health Surcharge £1,035/yr.

Fee: £719–£1,420 + IHS

Biometric appointment

Fingerprints + photo at a Visa Application Centre overseas, or UKVCAS in the UK.

Decision

Standard 3 weeks; priority service 5 working days for an additional fee.

Possible Outcomes

Granted — vignette / BRP issued
Refused — possible administrative review or appeal depending on grounds

ILR after 5 years

After 5 years' continuous lawful residence as a Skilled Worker, apply for ILR (subject to salary, English, Life in UK).

Official Sources

Skilled Worker visa

Frequently asked questions

What is the first step in applying for a Skilled Worker visa?: The process begins when an employer holding a sponsor licence assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship to the applicant. Following this, the individual must submit an online application via the GOV.UK portal. The application requires payment of the relevant visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge before proceeding to the biometric appointment stage.
How much does it cost to apply for a Skilled Worker visa?: Applicants must pay a visa fee of £719 for stays of three years or less, or £1,420 for longer periods. Additionally, the Immigration Health Surcharge is charged at £1,035 per year. These costs are payable during the online application process on the GOV.UK portal.
How long does it take to get a decision on a Skilled Worker visa?: Standard processing takes three weeks. Applicants can opt for a priority service, which reduces the decision time to five working days for an additional fee. After the decision, if granted, the applicant receives a vignette or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). If refused, administrative review or appeal may be possible depending on the grounds.
Where do I provide my biometrics for a Skilled Worker visa?: Applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo. If applying from overseas, this is done at a Visa Application Centre. If applying from within the UK, the appointment is held at a UKVCAS centre. This step is required after submitting the online application and paying the fees.
Can I get permanent residency after holding a Skilled Worker visa?: After five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK as a Skilled Worker, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. This application is subject to meeting specific requirements, including salary thresholds, English language proficiency, and passing the Life in the UK test.