Applying for a UK work visa is a crucial step for many individuals looking to move to the UK for employment purposes. Understanding the costs involved can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the different types of work visas available in the UK, the associated application fees, and other costs that may arise during the visa application process.
Types of Work Visas
There are several types of work visas available for individuals who wish to come to the UK for employment. Each visa has its own specific eligibility criteria and application fees. Below, we’ll explore the most common work visas:
Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa allows individuals with a job offer in the UK from an approved employer to work in a skilled role. This visa is for individuals who meet the required skills and salary thresholds.
Eligibility Requirements
A job offer from a UK employer who is approved by the Home Office
The job must be on the list of eligible occupations
The applicant must meet the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above)
Application Fees
£719 for up to three years
£1,420 for more than three years
This visa also requires applicants to meet a salary requirement, which varies depending on the job role and location.
Health and Care Worker Visa
The Health and Care Worker visa is designed for medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and care workers, who have a job offer in the NHS, an NHS supplier, or in adult social care. This visa helps address the staffing shortages in the healthcare sector.
Eligibility Requirements
A job offer in the healthcare sector
A certificate of sponsorship from an approved UK employer
Application Fees
£284 for up to three years
Applicants also need to meet the salary threshold for healthcare workers, which is generally lower than that of other skilled worker roles.
The Health and Care Worker visa also offers reduced application fees and is exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge (discussed later).
Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent visa is aimed at highly skilled individuals who are leaders or emerging leaders in their field, such as in science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, or the arts. This visa allows individuals to work in the UK without a specific job offer.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body, demonstrating exceptional talent or promise in their field.
Application Fees
£716 for main applicants
£1,408 for applicants applying as dependents
This visa allows for greater flexibility and doesn’t require a specific job offer, making it ideal for individuals with significant expertise in their area.
Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder visa is designed for individuals looking to start a new business in the UK. This visa requires applicants to have a viable business idea that is endorsed by an approved body.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must have a business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable
A letter of endorsement from an approved endorsing body
At least £50,000 in investment funds if setting up a new business
Application Fees
£1,191 for applications made outside the UK
£1,423 for applications made inside the UK
The Innovator Founder visa also provides applicants with the opportunity to stay in the UK for up to three years, with the possibility to extend.
Application Fees
The application fee for each type of visa varies depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. Below is a summary of the key application fees for the UK work visas:
Skilled Worker visa
£719 for up to three years
£1,420 for more than three years
Health and Care Worker visa
£284 for up to three years
Global Talent visa
£716 for main applicants
Innovator Founder visa
£1,191 for applications made outside the UK
Healthcare Surcharge
In addition to the application fee, most visa applicants are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This surcharge contributes to the cost of accessing healthcare services in the UK, such as through the National Health Service (NHS). The standard IHS rate is:
£1,035 per year for most applicants
The Health and Care Worker visa is exempt from the IHS, providing significant savings for applicants in the healthcare sector.
Supporting Yourself
When applying for a UK work visa, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves upon arrival in the UK. This ensures that individuals will not become a burden on public services.
Funds Required
Applicants need to show that they have at least £1,270 available to support themselves when they arrive in the UK. This can be in the form of personal savings or other financial resources.
For some visas, such as the Skilled Worker visa, this requirement may be waived if the employer has certified that they will cover the applicant’s costs during the first month of employment.
Additional Costs
In addition to the application fees, healthcare surcharge, and supporting funds, there may be other potential costs associated with the visa application process. These include:
Endorsement fees
For certain visas, such as the Global Talent visa or Innovator Founder visa, applicants may need to pay a fee to the endorsing body.
Translation costs
If any of your documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated, which can incur additional costs.
Additional documentation
Some applicants may need to pay for additional supporting documents, such as qualifications assessments, English language test results, or criminal record certificates.
Application Process
The application process for a UK work visa generally involves the following steps:
Determine Eligibility
Review the visa options to determine which one is best suited for your qualifications and job offer.
Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship
For most work visas, you need a valid certificate of sponsorship from a UK employer.
Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents, including proof of funds, English language proficiency, and any necessary qualifications.
Submit the Application
Submit your application online through the UK Government website and pay the necessary fees.
Wait for Decision
The Home Office will review your application and may request additional documentation. Processing times vary depending on the type of visa.
Biometrics and Interviews
Some applicants may be required to attend an appointment for biometrics or an interview as part of the application process.
Receive a Decision
Once your application is approved, you will be issued a visa and can proceed to make travel arrangements.
It’s important to note that processing times can vary based on the type of visa and the complexity of the application. Applicants should apply well in advance of their intended travel date to avoid any delays.
Conclusion
By understanding the types of work visas available, the application fees, and additional costs, you can better plan your move to the UK. Be sure to gather all the required documentation and support yourself financially as you navigate through the visa application process.
