Skilled Worker Visa
Skilled Worker Visa Applications
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for overseas nationals to work in the UK. Abraham Baron Solicitors guide individuals and sponsored employers through every stage of the application process.
- Skilled Worker visa applications and extensions
- Salary threshold and going rate advice
- Switching from other visa categories
- Free, no-obligation initial consultation
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UK Skilled Worker visa advice
Applying for a Skilled Worker visa
The Skilled Worker visa replaced Tier 2 (General) in December 2020 as part of the UK's points-based immigration system. It allows overseas nationals to work in the UK for an approved employer in an eligible occupation.
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must score 70 points under the points-based system. Fifty of these points are mandatory: 20 points for a job offer from an approved sponsor, 20 points for a job at the required skill level (RQF level 3 or above), and 10 points for meeting the English language requirement at B1 level or above on the Common European Framework of Reference. The remaining 20 tradeable points can be earned through meeting the salary threshold, working in a shortage occupation, or holding a relevant PhD. In April 2024, the general salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas was raised significantly to £38,700 per year, replacing the previous threshold of £26,200. However, where the going rate for a specific occupation code is higher than £38,700, the higher going rate applies. New entrants — those under 26, recent graduates, or individuals switching from a Student visa — benefit from a reduced rate of 70 per cent of the standard threshold, currently £30,960. Abraham Baron Solicitors in Birmingham provide detailed advice on salary thresholds and going rates to ensure your application meets the requirements.
A key requirement of the Skilled Worker visa is that your employer must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence issued by the Home Office. Your employer will assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which contains the details of your job including the occupation code, salary, and working hours — these details are used in your visa application. Dependants — your spouse or civil partner and children under 18 — can apply to join you or remain with you in the UK, and they will have full rights to work and study. The Skilled Worker visa also provides a clear route to settlement: after five continuous years on the visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and after a further 12 months with ILR you may apply for British citizenship. Abraham Baron Solicitors handle applications at every stage, from the initial Skilled Worker visa through to ILR and naturalisation, providing continuity of advice throughout your immigration journey. Contact us today on 0330 133 0777 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
What we help with
Key requirements
Skilled Worker visa — key eligibility requirements
Understanding the points-based requirements for a successful application
Job offer from licensed sponsor
You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer holding a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence
Eligible occupation
The role must be at RQF level 3 or above and appear on the eligible occupations list
Salary threshold
General threshold £38,700 from April 2024 (or the going rate for your occupation if higher)
English language
Must demonstrate English to B1 level or above (CEFR)
Certificate of Sponsorship
Your employer must assign you a CoS before you can apply
Maintenance funds
Must show sufficient funds to support yourself unless exempt via your sponsor
Common reasons for Skilled Worker visa refusal
Why choose Abraham Baron Solicitors for your Skilled Worker visa?
Expert Immigration Advice
Our specialist immigration solicitors understand the Skilled Worker visa inside out. We provide clear, tailored advice based on your specific circumstances.
Sponsor Compliance
We advise employers on sponsor licence obligations and compliance duties. This protects both the sponsor and the visa applicant.
Application Preparation
We prepare thorough applications with all supporting evidence correctly compiled. This minimises the risk of refusal or delay.
Refusal Appeals
If your application has been refused, we assess the reasons and advise on appeal or administrative review. Many refusals can be overturned with the right approach.
Dependant Applications
We handle dependant visa applications alongside the main Skilled Worker application. Your family can join you in the UK with full work and study rights.
Settlement Planning
We plan your route from Skilled Worker visa to ILR and British citizenship. Long-term immigration planning gives you certainty about your future in the UK.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa in 2024?
The general salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas increased to £38,700 per year in April 2024, up from £26,200 previously. However, if the going rate for your specific occupation code is higher than £38,700, that higher rate applies. New entrant rates (for those under 26, recent graduates, or switching from a student visa) are set at 70 per cent of the standard rate, currently £30,960. Abraham Baron Solicitors can advise on the specific going rate for your occupation and whether you qualify for the new entrant rate.
Does my employer need a sponsor licence?
Yes. Your employer must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence issued by the Home Office before they can assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship. If your employer does not currently hold a licence, they must apply for one first — a process that typically takes 8 weeks. Abraham Baron Solicitors advise employers on sponsor licence applications as well as individual Skilled Worker visa applications. We can work with both you and your employer simultaneously to minimise delays.
Can my family come with me on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes. Your spouse or civil partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants on your Skilled Worker visa. Dependants can work in the UK without restriction and can study. They will be granted leave in line with your permission. From April 2024 the financial requirement for dependants increased — you must demonstrate a minimum salary of £38,700 to sponsor dependants, with the threshold rising for each additional dependant. We advise on the financial requirements for dependant applications alongside the main Skilled Worker application.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK?
In most cases yes — if you are currently in the UK with valid leave to remain you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa without leaving the country. Common switching routes include switching from a Student visa after graduation, from a Graduate visa, from a Spouse visa where the holder has found a sponsored job, or from a Skilled Worker visa under a different employer. You cannot switch from certain categories including visit visas. Abraham Baron Solicitors will advise on whether you can switch from your current visa category.
How long does a Skilled Worker visa application take?
Standard processing time from inside the UK is approximately 8 weeks. Priority processing (additional fee) reduces this to approximately 5 working days. Outside the UK, standard processing is typically 3 weeks. Processing times can vary with application volumes and if the Home Office requests additional documents. Abraham Baron Solicitors prepare thorough applications with all supporting evidence to minimise the risk of delays.
What happens after 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa?
After five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK, including time spent on a Skilled Worker visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR gives you the right to live and work in the UK permanently. After a further 12 months with ILR you can apply for British citizenship. Abraham Baron Solicitors handle ILR and citizenship applications as well as Skilled Worker visa applications, providing continuity of advice throughout your immigration journey.
How we handle your Skilled Worker visa application
Simple, transparent process from start to finish
Free Consultation
We assess your eligibility, advise on the going rate for your occupation and identify any issues before you apply.
Document Preparation
We prepare your application and compile all supporting evidence including CoS details, salary evidence, English language certificates and maintenance funds.
Application Submission
We submit your application to the Home Office and monitor progress, responding promptly to any requests for further information.
Decision and Next Steps
We advise on your visa conditions, dependant applications, and planning your route to ILR and settlement.
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- Plain-English explanation of your options
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- We aim to respond within 24 hours
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Client reviews
Trusted by hundreds of clients
Stephane Bowley
I can recommend Ali to anyone he's very good at his job work really hard and keep you updated at all times.
Sheila Garces
I can't recommend this firm enough for their outstanding support during my housing disrepair case. From the very beginning, Ali made me feel heard and understood, which meant so much during what was a really stressful time.
Ahsan Hussain
Dealt with Isaa with regards to my personal injury claim, he was very professional and prompt with dealing with my claim, kept me updated and helped to get me a great settlement, would definitely recommend to others.
Shaz Josephs
From start to finish of my claim I can't say anything but thank you Isaa. 100% true to your word. What an amazing Solicitor.
Molly White
Absolutely amazing solicitors, helped me with my housing disrepair claim, from start to finish my solicitor Ali was amazing kept me updated on everything, everyone was also very polite who I spoke to highly recommended.
Alex
After a court case with my local council after their repeated failure for nearly two years to solve the mould and damp within my house I contacted Abraham Baron Solicitors and in no time did they help with my claim.
A M L
I am very grateful to Abraham Baron solicitors for their great work, specially Bahja has done a great work supporting me all the way through and they got the best result possible. Thank you very much.
Father and son Gaming
Took care of our claim from start to finish and the result was pretty decent. Thanks to everyone's hard work we got the desired outcome.
imaan aziz
Isaa has been a very good solicitor he has showed me and explained every detail of the situation I have been in and I appreciate it so much. I would recommend him to you guys.
Umar Asghar
Very highly respected people Nazsh and Ali Kassam both helped me with my case, always helped if I had any problems and concerns. Thank you so much for everything.
Aaron Webster
My handler Junayd did fantastic work in winning my settlement.
Arshe Habib
They are the most professional and the best when it comes to disrepair claims and worked really hard.
kamal hamed
Thank you so much Abraham Solicitors for sorting out my ongoing problems in my flats. Special thank you to Mr Ali Kassam — you are very talented, kind and responsible person.
Sean Connolly
I can recommend this company they fixed all my disrepair to my home. Jayned was my solicitor and he was excellent and I'd use them again if I need their help.
Satish Malaviya
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Special thanks to Issa, who handled my case with great professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.
Sacherevell Aikens
Abraham Baron Solicitors are great to work with. Very helpful, above and beyond. If you need a solicitor ask for Iman Chishty, he is very good.
Usama Khan
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors while handling my injury claim. The process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A special thank-you to Maria, who did all the hard work.
Rumana Miah
Abraham Baron Solicitors were very professional, helpful, supportive and patient throughout. They ensured our claim was dealt with efficiently and always communicated to us.
Becky Maunder
Junahd was absolutely amazing with my case. He went above and beyond to help me. Outstanding service provided by him and great outcome. Couldn't be more happier.
H Singh
Thank you to Issa. Always kept me updated during the whole process of the claim. Appreciate the time and dedication he put in.
Mhamad Maulud
I want to give 5 star review to Abraham Baron Solicitors for great job and professional. Special thanks to Issa for his support. They were able to get good money for my injury claim very quickly.
Jim Mummert
Excellent result achieved with the professional assistance of Solicitor Sejal Karavadra who specializes in visa applications and the Home Office. Highly recommended.
Isa Ali
I want to give my full appreciation to Abraham Baron Solicitors and especially to Imam for his outstanding support with my housing disrepair claim. When I had lost hope, they guided me with professionalism.
Jane Hunt
Absolutely fantastic service, totally professional and respectful at all times. I was updated and kept informed every step of the way. I'm really happy with the outcome which was a really quick process.
Darren Stone
Abraham Baron Solicitors done a great job with my damp claim and would highly recommend them.
Julie Pinot de Moira
We found them supportive and thorough.
Jalil Nebizai
The best firm I have dealt with, very professional, very knowledgeable, amazing customer service. Would like to praise Mubi, who did amazing work. She went the extra mile and made a lot of effort on my claim.
Rizgar Zaree
2 times in the last 8 months I gave my case to Isaa and he went above and beyond to settle my claim very quickly. Very professional and reliable service.
katherine Harrison
The firm Abraham Baron Solicitors Limited is a fantastic firm, very professional, extremely kind. Get things done very fast. Very easy to contact and the outcome is true to the lawyers' words.
Marcus Williams
Highly recommended this company. Great communication levels from start to finish. Imam very friendly and good at his job, many thanks to you guys.
Phillip Marriott
Munira and Abraham both worked extremely hard to get the repairs done. Even though it was something they don't usually deal with, they got us the result we wanted.
Daisy Maria
Iman has been amazing from the very first day we spoke and has always paid complete attention to my needs. He has communicated with me throughout and shown so much support.
Kristal Thomas
I am very satisfied with the work that Imam and the firm has done from start to finish. Excellent communication throughout and have achieved an excellent outcome.
A Demisse
ABS is very helpful, pays attention to what I am saying, and is totally honest. I received so much help from Mr Ali Kassam, who handled my case professionally from start to finish.
Anil Badhan
Gave my case to Issa Khan and he went above and beyond to settle my claim. Very professional and reliable service. I felt valued as a customer.
Jay
Iman Chishty is the man. He done an amazing job, helped me so much and is a good and down to earth person to speak to. Highly Recommended.
fozia c
Excellent professional service! Isaa Khan handled my accident claim with prompt communication and a favourable outcome — closed within a matter of weeks.
Matthew Hurley
Yes and thank you very much for all the help, really grateful.
VernB
Imam has been the best. From the beginning he gave me good advice and support because it wasn't an easy process but with his frequent updates and explanations of the next steps, I felt at ease.
Lee Duffy
Can't thank this firm enough and the gentleman who helped me. With me being so ill, all these problems just got too much for me. I'd recommend these guys to anybody out there.
T G
Can't recommend this firm enough and Imam who took on my case has been so helpful keeping me updated with things and getting me the help I needed!
NANCY THORPE
Exceptional service provided by the company. Specifically Hana Nasreen — she provided knowledge and experience with a professional approach with regular updates. She dealt with my disrepair claim successfully.
Muryam Rivers
Exceptional service provided by the company and specifically from Imam. Professional approach, commitment, and regular updates. Dealt with issues and concerns successfully.
Natasha Frost
Amazing, friendly, helpful and go the extra mile! Abraham helped me with a case against my landlord.
Talha Khan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Abraham Baron Solicitors, particularly by Sejal Karavadra. Her dedication and commitment to my case were truly remarkable.
arsham manouk
We are council tenants and we had a great experience with this firm. They helped us resolve a situation with our upstairs neighbours, whose persistent leaks were damaging our property.
Caroline Aro
We had a lovely experience with this firm. The client care was exceptional, the advice was easy to understand. My father felt his voice was heard all the time. They won the case.
Raise Malik
From the very beginning, I experienced excellent service with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Throughout my claim, they kept me well-informed, patiently explaining whenever needed.
akhtar miah
I had an exceptional experience. Their professional approach and unwavering confidence in handling my case truly stood out. The team's expertise and dedication provided me with peace of mind.
Adam Kalam
I was extremely impressed with the level of professionalism that the team provided me with. They really went the extra mile to make sure everything was completed exactly how we wanted it.
Mohammed Rashid
Absolutely fantastic service, very efficient, good communication at all times. Nice and prompt resolution, very happy with their service indeed.
mohsin Farooq
5 star service, very professional. Will recommend to all friends and family. Thank you Abraham.
Parminder Badhan
Outstanding service. If you're looking for a solicitor who is prompt, efficient and helpful with excellent communication skills, I would highly recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Azharul Islam
Very knowledgeable in many areas, extremely clear in all communications and a genuine caring organisation. I fully recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Hammad Ullah Sharif
Highly competent at what they do! The professional guidance and support provided was above and beyond. Would happily recommend.
Aman Rayat
Amazing solicitors!! I would definitely recommend them as they are very knowledgeable and give the best service to all their clients.
The Magnetic Muslimah
I definitely recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors, top service, very quick response, great customer service. Abraham is very knowledgeable and knows the law very well.
Jayesh Bhatt
Brilliant service, very professional and helpful and also very efficient.
Adele Dwyer
I am very happy with the work that has been done for my family, and very impressed with the work done in a short time frame. I would recommend this firm to others.
Stephane Bowley
I can recommend Ali to anyone he's very good at his job work really hard and keep you updated at all times.
Sheila Garces
I can't recommend this firm enough for their outstanding support during my housing disrepair case. From the very beginning, Ali made me feel heard and understood, which meant so much during what was a really stressful time.
Ahsan Hussain
Dealt with Isaa with regards to my personal injury claim, he was very professional and prompt with dealing with my claim, kept me updated and helped to get me a great settlement, would definitely recommend to others.
Shaz Josephs
From start to finish of my claim I can't say anything but thank you Isaa. 100% true to your word. What an amazing Solicitor.
Molly White
Absolutely amazing solicitors, helped me with my housing disrepair claim, from start to finish my solicitor Ali was amazing kept me updated on everything, everyone was also very polite who I spoke to highly recommended.
Alex
After a court case with my local council after their repeated failure for nearly two years to solve the mould and damp within my house I contacted Abraham Baron Solicitors and in no time did they help with my claim.
A M L
I am very grateful to Abraham Baron solicitors for their great work, specially Bahja has done a great work supporting me all the way through and they got the best result possible. Thank you very much.
Father and son Gaming
Took care of our claim from start to finish and the result was pretty decent. Thanks to everyone's hard work we got the desired outcome.
imaan aziz
Isaa has been a very good solicitor he has showed me and explained every detail of the situation I have been in and I appreciate it so much. I would recommend him to you guys.
Umar Asghar
Very highly respected people Nazsh and Ali Kassam both helped me with my case, always helped if I had any problems and concerns. Thank you so much for everything.
Aaron Webster
My handler Junayd did fantastic work in winning my settlement.
Arshe Habib
They are the most professional and the best when it comes to disrepair claims and worked really hard.
kamal hamed
Thank you so much Abraham Solicitors for sorting out my ongoing problems in my flats. Special thank you to Mr Ali Kassam — you are very talented, kind and responsible person.
Sean Connolly
I can recommend this company they fixed all my disrepair to my home. Jayned was my solicitor and he was excellent and I'd use them again if I need their help.
Satish Malaviya
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Special thanks to Issa, who handled my case with great professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.
Sacherevell Aikens
Abraham Baron Solicitors are great to work with. Very helpful, above and beyond. If you need a solicitor ask for Iman Chishty, he is very good.
Usama Khan
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors while handling my injury claim. The process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A special thank-you to Maria, who did all the hard work.
Rumana Miah
Abraham Baron Solicitors were very professional, helpful, supportive and patient throughout. They ensured our claim was dealt with efficiently and always communicated to us.
Becky Maunder
Junahd was absolutely amazing with my case. He went above and beyond to help me. Outstanding service provided by him and great outcome. Couldn't be more happier.
H Singh
Thank you to Issa. Always kept me updated during the whole process of the claim. Appreciate the time and dedication he put in.
Mhamad Maulud
I want to give 5 star review to Abraham Baron Solicitors for great job and professional. Special thanks to Issa for his support. They were able to get good money for my injury claim very quickly.
Jim Mummert
Excellent result achieved with the professional assistance of Solicitor Sejal Karavadra who specializes in visa applications and the Home Office. Highly recommended.
Isa Ali
I want to give my full appreciation to Abraham Baron Solicitors and especially to Imam for his outstanding support with my housing disrepair claim. When I had lost hope, they guided me with professionalism.
Jane Hunt
Absolutely fantastic service, totally professional and respectful at all times. I was updated and kept informed every step of the way. I'm really happy with the outcome which was a really quick process.
Darren Stone
Abraham Baron Solicitors done a great job with my damp claim and would highly recommend them.
Julie Pinot de Moira
We found them supportive and thorough.
Jalil Nebizai
The best firm I have dealt with, very professional, very knowledgeable, amazing customer service. Would like to praise Mubi, who did amazing work. She went the extra mile and made a lot of effort on my claim.
Rizgar Zaree
2 times in the last 8 months I gave my case to Isaa and he went above and beyond to settle my claim very quickly. Very professional and reliable service.
katherine Harrison
The firm Abraham Baron Solicitors Limited is a fantastic firm, very professional, extremely kind. Get things done very fast. Very easy to contact and the outcome is true to the lawyers' words.
Marcus Williams
Highly recommended this company. Great communication levels from start to finish. Imam very friendly and good at his job, many thanks to you guys.
Phillip Marriott
Munira and Abraham both worked extremely hard to get the repairs done. Even though it was something they don't usually deal with, they got us the result we wanted.
Daisy Maria
Iman has been amazing from the very first day we spoke and has always paid complete attention to my needs. He has communicated with me throughout and shown so much support.
Kristal Thomas
I am very satisfied with the work that Imam and the firm has done from start to finish. Excellent communication throughout and have achieved an excellent outcome.
A Demisse
ABS is very helpful, pays attention to what I am saying, and is totally honest. I received so much help from Mr Ali Kassam, who handled my case professionally from start to finish.
Anil Badhan
Gave my case to Issa Khan and he went above and beyond to settle my claim. Very professional and reliable service. I felt valued as a customer.
Jay
Iman Chishty is the man. He done an amazing job, helped me so much and is a good and down to earth person to speak to. Highly Recommended.
fozia c
Excellent professional service! Isaa Khan handled my accident claim with prompt communication and a favourable outcome — closed within a matter of weeks.
Matthew Hurley
Yes and thank you very much for all the help, really grateful.
VernB
Imam has been the best. From the beginning he gave me good advice and support because it wasn't an easy process but with his frequent updates and explanations of the next steps, I felt at ease.
Lee Duffy
Can't thank this firm enough and the gentleman who helped me. With me being so ill, all these problems just got too much for me. I'd recommend these guys to anybody out there.
T G
Can't recommend this firm enough and Imam who took on my case has been so helpful keeping me updated with things and getting me the help I needed!
NANCY THORPE
Exceptional service provided by the company. Specifically Hana Nasreen — she provided knowledge and experience with a professional approach with regular updates. She dealt with my disrepair claim successfully.
Muryam Rivers
Exceptional service provided by the company and specifically from Imam. Professional approach, commitment, and regular updates. Dealt with issues and concerns successfully.
Natasha Frost
Amazing, friendly, helpful and go the extra mile! Abraham helped me with a case against my landlord.
Talha Khan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Abraham Baron Solicitors, particularly by Sejal Karavadra. Her dedication and commitment to my case were truly remarkable.
arsham manouk
We are council tenants and we had a great experience with this firm. They helped us resolve a situation with our upstairs neighbours, whose persistent leaks were damaging our property.
Caroline Aro
We had a lovely experience with this firm. The client care was exceptional, the advice was easy to understand. My father felt his voice was heard all the time. They won the case.
Raise Malik
From the very beginning, I experienced excellent service with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Throughout my claim, they kept me well-informed, patiently explaining whenever needed.
akhtar miah
I had an exceptional experience. Their professional approach and unwavering confidence in handling my case truly stood out. The team's expertise and dedication provided me with peace of mind.
Adam Kalam
I was extremely impressed with the level of professionalism that the team provided me with. They really went the extra mile to make sure everything was completed exactly how we wanted it.
Mohammed Rashid
Absolutely fantastic service, very efficient, good communication at all times. Nice and prompt resolution, very happy with their service indeed.
mohsin Farooq
5 star service, very professional. Will recommend to all friends and family. Thank you Abraham.
Parminder Badhan
Outstanding service. If you're looking for a solicitor who is prompt, efficient and helpful with excellent communication skills, I would highly recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Azharul Islam
Very knowledgeable in many areas, extremely clear in all communications and a genuine caring organisation. I fully recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Hammad Ullah Sharif
Highly competent at what they do! The professional guidance and support provided was above and beyond. Would happily recommend.
Aman Rayat
Amazing solicitors!! I would definitely recommend them as they are very knowledgeable and give the best service to all their clients.
The Magnetic Muslimah
I definitely recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors, top service, very quick response, great customer service. Abraham is very knowledgeable and knows the law very well.
Jayesh Bhatt
Brilliant service, very professional and helpful and also very efficient.
Adele Dwyer
I am very happy with the work that has been done for my family, and very impressed with the work done in a short time frame. I would recommend this firm to others.
Your first conversation is free, confidential, and without obligation. Contacting us does not start proceedings or commit you to any fees.