Are you considering moving to the United Kingdom for work? If so, you’ll need to understand the ins and outs of the UK Skilled Worker Visa, also known as the Tier 2 Visa. This visa is a crucial part of the UK’s points-based immigration system and is designed for individuals who have been offered a skilled job in the UK. This ultimate guide will help you master the process of obtaining a Tier 2 Visa and finding sponsorship jobs in London.
What is a Tier 2 Visa?
The Tier 2 Visa, or the UK Skilled Worker Visa, is a type of visa that allows individuals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland to work in the UK. It is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system and is designed for skilled workers who have been offered a job in the UK. The Tier 2 Visa is sponsored, meaning you must have a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 Sponsorship License.
Types of Tier 2 Visas
There are four types of Tier 2 Visas:
- Tier 2 (General): For workers with a job offer in the UK, with a minimum salary requirement.
- Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer): For employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a UK branch.
- Tier 2 (Sportsperson): For elite sportspeople and coaches who will be based in the UK.
- Tier 2 (Minister of Religion): For those coming to work for a religious organisation in the UK.
Requirements for Tier 2 Visa
To qualify for a Tier 2 Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Have a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 Sponsorship License.
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
- Prove your knowledge of English.
- Have personal savings to support yourself when you arrive in the UK.
- Show you’re being paid an appropriate salary for your job.
How to Apply for a Tier 2 Visa
Applying for a Tier 2 Visa involves several steps:
- Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
- Apply online for the Tier 2 Visa.
- Pay the visa fee and the healthcare surcharge.
- Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application centre.
- Wait for a decision on your visa application.
Tier 2 Sponsorship Jobs in London
Many employers in London offer Tier 2 sponsorship jobs. These include NHS hospitals, care homes, schools, and multinational companies. Some popular sectors for Tier 2 jobs in London include healthcare (NHS Tier 2 Visa Sponsorship), education (teaching jobs with visa sponsorship in UK), and social care (care homes with Tier 2 sponsorship in London).
Working in the UK for Non-EEA Nationals
For non-EEA nationals, such as a Turkish man looking to come to England or a Canadian wanting to work in the UK, the Tier 2 Visa is the primary route. However, they must first secure a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 Sponsorship License. The employer will then issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, which is needed to apply for the Tier 2 Visa.
Working in the UK for Australians
For Australians, the process is similar. They must secure a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 Sponsorship License and then apply for the Tier 2 Visa. The UK’s points-based immigration system is similar to the Australia point-based system, so Australians may find the process familiar.
Conclusion
Securing a Tier 2 Visa is a crucial step for non-EEA nationals who wish to work in the UK. It requires a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 Sponsorship License, a Certificate of Sponsorship, and meeting other requirements such as English language proficiency and personal savings. With this guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to navigate the process of obtaining a Tier 2 Visa and finding sponsorship jobs in London.
Skilled Worker Visa: Quick Answers (2026)
What is the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa in 2026?
Generally £41,700 a year or the going rate for your occupation, whichever is higher (with a £17.13 minimum hourly rate). Lower thresholds apply to new entrants, Immigration Salary List roles and PhD-STEM jobs.
Do I need a job offer and a sponsor?
Yes. You need a confirmed job from a Home Office-licensed sponsor with a Certificate of Sponsorship, at the required skill level (RQF 6, graduate level).
What English level do I need?
From 8 January 2026 you must prove English at CEFR B2 in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Workers who already met the old B1 standard can continue to extend and settle on that basis.
How long is the visa, and can it lead to settlement?
It can be granted for up to 5 years. After 5 continuous years of lawful residence you can usually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Can I bring my family?
Yes — a partner and children under 18 can join you as dependants, each with their own application and fees.
How do I prove my status once I’m here?
Your status is digital — set up your eVisa and use a share code to prove your right to work.
