Skilled Worker Visa Application Checklist 2026

*Print this checklist and tick off each item as you prepare your application.*

Before you apply

  • Confirm your employer holds a valid UK sponsor licence
  • Receive your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
  • Check your job is on the eligible occupations list (RQF Level 3+)
  • Confirm your salary meets the threshold (£38,700 or the going rate — whichever is higher)
  • Check if you qualify for a reduced threshold (new entrant, PhD, Immigration Salary List)

English language proof (one of the following)

  • Book and pass an approved SELT test (IELTS UKVI, Trinity, LanguageCert, or PTE Academic)
  • OR obtain a NARIC/UK ENIC statement confirming your degree was taught in English
  • OR confirm you're a national of a majority English-speaking country

Financial evidence

  • Bank statements showing £1,270 held for 28 consecutive days
  • OR confirmation your sponsor is certifying maintenance on the CoS

Documents to gather

  • Valid passport (with at least 1 blank page)
  • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
  • English language test certificate or NARIC statement
  • Bank statements (28 consecutive days, dated within 31 days of application)
  • Proof of qualifications (if required by the CoS)
  • TB test certificate (if applying from a listed country)
  • Criminal record certificate (if working with vulnerable people)
  • Details of any previous UK visa applications or refusals

Application steps

  • Complete the online application at gov.uk
  • Pay the visa fee (£719 for up to 3 years / £1,420 for over 3 years)
  • Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year)
  • Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre
  • Attend the appointment (biometrics: fingerprints + photo)
  • Submit supporting documents
  • Track your application online

After your visa is granted

  • Travel to the UK within the dates on your vignette
  • Collect your BRP from the specified Post Office within 10 days
  • Start work with your sponsoring employer
  • Open a UK bank account
  • Register with a GP
  • Apply for a National Insurance number
  • Register on the electoral roll (if eligible)

Planning ahead: your first UK home

  • Start building your UK credit history (months 1–6)
  • Research mortgage options for visa holders
  • Use the Stamp Duty Calculator to estimate costs
  • Get a free conveyancing quote when you're ready

*Downloaded from [website]. For the full Skilled Worker Visa guide, visit [URL].*

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