The UK Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most popular routes for Pakistani citizens seeking to live and work in the United Kingdom. This visa offers professionals a chance to work in a wide range of sectors, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. In this guide, we will explore the detailed requirements, step-by-step process, and key considerations for Pakistanis applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa.

What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals from outside the UK to come and work for an approved UK employer in a role that matches the visa’s eligibility criteria. This visa is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system, where applicants must meet specific requirements to qualify for entry.

The visa covers multiple sectors, including IT, healthcare, engineering, finance, and more, making it a lucrative option for highly skilled Pakistani professionals looking to advance their careers in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Applicants

To qualify for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, Pakistani applicants must meet certain requirements, which include having a job offer, proving their qualifications, and meeting minimum salary thresholds. Below are the critical elements of eligibility:

1. Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

To apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK-based employer. The employer must be listed as an approved sponsor by the UK government. Pakistani applicants should ensure that the employer provides them with a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which details their job role and confirms their employment.

2. Appropriate Skill Level

The job you are offered must be at an appropriate skill level, which is generally at RQF level 3 or higher. This is equivalent to A-level education or above. Certain professions, such as doctors, engineers, IT specialists, and teachers, are often included in the eligible roles, making it easier for Pakistani professionals in these fields to qualify.

3. English Language Proficiency

Pakistani applicants are required to prove their English language proficiency. This can be done by either passing a recognized English language test (like IELTS) or by holding an academic qualification taught in English, such as a degree, that is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher.

4. Minimum Salary Requirements

The salary offered by your UK employer must meet the minimum threshold, which is typically £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour. However, some roles may have a lower threshold if they are in high demand or on the Shortage Occupation List.

5. Proof of Financial Stability

To ensure that you can support yourself when you first arrive in the UK, you need to show proof of financial stability. You should have at least £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 days before applying for the visa. Some exemptions may apply if your employer covers this through their sponsorship.

Documents Required for the UK Skilled Worker Visa

For Pakistani nationals applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, gathering all the required documents is essential to ensure a smooth application process. The key documents include:

• Valid passport or other travel identification.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer.
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS results or degree certificate).
• Proof of meeting the financial requirements (bank statements or sponsor confirmation).
• Police clearance certificate from Pakistan.
• Tuberculosis test results (required for all applicants from Pakistan).
• Proof of qualifications or relevant work experience for the job.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa

Here is a detailed step-by-step guide for Pakistani applicants to follow when applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

The first step is to secure a job offer from a UK-based employer who holds a valid sponsor license. Once the job offer is confirmed, your employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Make sure that the CoS contains all necessary information, such as job title, salary, and work location.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the required documents for your visa application. Double-check that your passport, CoS, bank statements, English language certificate, and other necessary paperwork are in order.

Step 3: Submit Your Online Application

Visit the official UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) website to begin your online application. Fill out the required forms, and ensure you provide accurate and up-to-date information. During this process, you will need to upload scanned copies of your documents.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fees

When applying for the Skilled Worker Visa, there are fees that must be paid. For Pakistani applicants, the cost is as follows:

• Visa application fee: This can range from £610 to £1,408, depending on the length of your visa.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This is typically £624 per year of stay in the UK.

Make sure you pay these fees online when submitting your application.

Step 5: Book a Biometric Appointment

As part of the application process, you will need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph). You can book an appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application and attending your biometric appointment, you must wait for a decision from UKVI. The processing time typically ranges from 3 to 8 weeks depending on your circumstances.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa and Travel to the UK

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa vignette in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK. Upon arrival, you will collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which will serve as your official documentation during your stay in the UK.

Post-Arrival Obligations in the UK

After arriving in the UK, Pakistani visa holders must adhere to certain conditions:

• Work for your sponsoring employer in the role specified in your visa.
• Notify UKVI of any changes to your employment status.
• Renew your visa if needed before its expiration date.
• You can apply for permanent residency after living in the UK for 5 continuous years on the Skilled Worker Visa, provided you meet all the residency and employment conditions. contact us