Mastering the Appendix Skilled Worker route is crucial for sponsors who wish to bring in overseas talent to the UK. This visa route, which falls under the UK’s points-based immigration system, allows employers to sponsor non-UK residents for specific jobs. The jobs must be at a certain skill level and the worker must meet specific eligibility requirements. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to navigate this process successfully, focusing on the ‘Appendix Skilled Occupations’ list, which outlines the jobs that qualify for this visa route.
Understanding the Appendix Skilled Worker Route
The Appendix Skilled Worker route is a part of the UK’s points-based immigration system. It is designed to attract talented individuals from outside the UK to fill jobs that cannot be filled by the resident workforce. The route is based on sponsorship, meaning that an employer (the sponsor) must offer a job to the individual (the applicant) and support their visa application.
Role of the Sponsor
The sponsor plays a crucial role in the Appendix Skilled Worker route. They are responsible for offering a job to the applicant and supporting their visa application. The sponsor must also ensure that the job is at the appropriate skill level and that the applicant meets the eligibility requirements. The sponsor must hold a valid sponsor licence and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to the applicant.
Appendix Skilled Occupations
The ‘Appendix Skilled Occupations’ list is a key component of the Appendix Skilled Worker route. This list outlines the jobs that qualify for this visa route. The jobs are classified according to the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes. Each job is assigned a skill level and a corresponding minimum salary requirement. The sponsor must ensure that the job they are offering is on this list and meets the specified requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
The applicant must meet several eligibility requirements to qualify for the Appendix Skilled Worker route. These include:
- Having a job offer from a licensed sponsor
- The job must be at a skill level of RQF3 or above (equivalent to A level)
- Being able to speak, read, write and understand English
- Being paid at least the minimum salary requirement or the ‘going rate’ for the job, whichever is higher
Points System
The Appendix Skilled Worker route operates on a points-based system. The applicant must score a minimum of 70 points to be eligible. Points are awarded for meeting the eligibility requirements, with additional points for certain characteristics such as holding a PhD in a STEM subject or the job being in a shortage occupation.
Application Process
The application process for the Appendix Skilled Worker route involves several steps:
- The sponsor offers a job to the applicant and issues a Certificate of Sponsorship
- The applicant applies for the visa, providing the necessary documents and information
- The application is reviewed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
- If the application is successful, the applicant is granted a visa and can travel to the UK to start work
Conclusion
Mastering the Appendix Skilled Worker route is essential for sponsors who wish to bring in overseas talent to the UK. By understanding the role of the sponsor, the ‘Appendix Skilled Occupations’ list, the eligibility requirements, the points system, and the application process, sponsors can navigate this process successfully and contribute to the UK’s economic growth and development.
