Working in the UK: Skilled Worker Visa Explained
The UK's Skilled Worker visa is the primary route for Indian professionals wanting to work in the UK. Since Brexit, the points-based framework is actually more open to non-EU nationals including Indians than the pre-Brexit system was.
How the Points-Based System Works
You need 70 points. Mandatory elements (50 points): job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor (20 pts), job at an eligible skill level (20 pts), and English language requirement (10 pts). The remaining 20 points come from meeting the salary threshold, being in a shortage occupation, or having a relevant PhD. The general salary threshold as of 2024 is £38,700 per year, with lower thresholds for shortage occupations.
Finding a Licensed Sponsor
Over 100,000 UK employers are licensed sponsors. Look for roles mentioning 'visa sponsorship available.' Sectors with the highest number of sponsoring employers include IT and technology, NHS healthcare, finance, engineering, education, and professional services. London dominates, but Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Bristol also have strong markets.
The Application Process
Once you have a Certificate of Sponsorship, apply online, pay the visa fee (£610 for up to 3 years) plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year), and attend a biometric appointment. Processing typically takes 3-8 weeks. You can bring dependants on dependent visas.
Path to Settlement
After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain — permanent residency. After a further year you can apply for British citizenship. This is a well-trodden pathway that thousands of Indians complete successfully each year.