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What Employers Need to Know
The Skilled Worker Visa requires sponsorship from a UK employer that holds a valid Sponsor Licence issued by the Home Office. The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the UK’s main sponsored work routes, replacing Tier 2 (General). To hire under it, employers must offer a qualifying role that meets minimum salary and skill thresholds, usually £38,700 or the “going rate,” whichever is higher, and ensure the applicant meets English language requirements.
Thousands of global businesses can't be wrong.
Sign up for free and explore global hiring with Playroll.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa enables overseas professionals to live and work in the UK for an approved employer in a qualifying role. It is points-based, considering factors like salary, skills, and English ability. This visa supports the UK’s talent needs in high-demand industries and encourages long-term employment opportunities.
Common Job Roles Sponsored Under This Visa
- Healthcare & Nursing (Doctors, Registered Nurses, Physiotherapists, Radiographers)
- Engineering & Construction (Civil Engineers, Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors)
- IT & Technology (Software Developers, Data Analysts, Systems Engineers)
- Finance & Business (Accountants, Financial Analysts, HR Managers)
- Education & Research (University Lecturers, Laboratory Technicians, Researchers)
Employer Sponsorship Requirements for Skilled Worker Visa
To sponsor a Skilled Worker under this visa, an employer must:
- Hold a valid UK Sponsor Licence issued by the Home Office.
- Provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for each sponsored worker.
- Ensure the job role appears on the eligible occupations list.
- Meet the minimum salary threshold (£38,700 or the going rate).
- Comply with all record-keeping and reporting duties as a sponsor.
- Maintain a genuine and ongoing business presence in the UK.
How Much Does it Cost to Sponsor a Skilled Worker Visa?
Typical costs include:
Employers typically cover most of these costs, though arrangements may vary.
Estimated Timeline for Sponsoring Skilled Worker Visa
Typical processing times:
- Sponsor Licence approval: 8–12 weeks (priority service available)
- Certificate of Sponsorship issuance: 1–2 weeks
- Visa decision: 3–8 weeks depending on location and workload
Delays can occur if additional documents are requested or if background checks take longer.
Alternative Hiring Solutions That Don't Require Visa Sponsorship
Sponsoring a Skilled Worker Visa can be costly and time-consuming, involving licence applications, immigration levies, and several weeks or months of processing. For businesses competing for talent, this can slow down hiring and increase administrative burden.
Instead, companies can expand globally without relocation. Through Playroll’s Employer of Record (EOR) model, employers can compliantly onboard international talent in 180+ countries. Playroll handles contracts, payroll, taxes, and benefits in line with local labour laws. This solution is faster, compliant, and far more affordable than sponsoring a Skilled Worker Visa, enabling teams to grow globally without the delays or costs of relocation.
Hire Without Visa Hassles, Anywhere
01
Find Top Talent
Portugal, Italy, South Africa — hire your ideal candidate anywhere in the world.
02
Contact Playroll
No local entity? No problem. We employ on your behalf in 180+ markets.
03
Admin, Handled
From the contract to payroll and benefits, we handle it all, so you can focus on growth.
04
Hands-On Help
From onboarding to offboarding, our team provides real human support along the way.
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