UK Skilled Worker Visa Documents Checklist
Not sure which documents you need for a UK Skilled Worker visa? Check out our Skilled Worker Visa Document Checklist 2025 to ensure you have everything.
When applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa, you must submit various supporting documents, including your passport, and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), among others.
Missing or incorrect documents may lead to a UK Skilled Worker visa refusal. Contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors at 0203 959 7755 for advice about documents needed.
What is a Skilled Worker Visa?
A Skilled Worker visa previously known as Tier 2 (General) work visa allows you to live and work in the UK for an eligible job with an approved employer.
The Skilled Worker visa allows eligible visa holders to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after living and working in the UK for five continuous years.
Key Features of the Skilled Worker Visa
- Initially granted for up to 5 years.
- Can be extended as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Switch between qualifying roles or employers while maintaining visa eligibility.
- After 5 continuous years on the visa, you may apply for ILR, enabling permanent residence in the UK.
- You can bring your partner and children as dependents.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must:
- Be employed by a UK-based employer approved by the Home Office.
- Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer outlining the details of your job offer in the UK.
- Work in a role listed among eligible occupations.
- Meet the minimum salary requirement, which varies depending on your job type and the date your CoS was issued.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Documents Checklist 2025
To apply for a UK Skilled Worker visa in 2025, you'll need to provide several essential documents to demonstrate your eligibility.
When you apply, you'll need to provide:
- your valid passport.
- your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
- proof of job offer from an approved UK employer.
- your job title and annual salary
- your job's occupation code
- name of your employer and their sponsor licence number.
- proof of your knowledge of English.
- evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK.
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable).
- References from the previous employer.
- Additional documents depending on your circumstances
Valid Passport or Identity Document
You must submit your valid passport or another official document that proves your identity and nationality.
When you apply, you'll need to provide:
- your valid passport or travel ID.
- previous passports (if applicable).
- your eVisa (online record of your immigration status), if applicable.
- your biometric residence permit (BRP), if applicable.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is one of the most important documents for your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office-approved UK employer detailing your job offer.
Your UK employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which contains:
- A unique reference number tied to your job offer.
- Details of your job, including title, salary, and occupation code.
- Confirmation that the job meets the eligibility criteria.
Evidence of Your Knowledge of English
You can meet the English language requirements for a UK Skilled Worker visa by passing an approved English language test at or above the B1 CEFR level.
To prove your knowledge of the English language, you can provide one of the following:
- English language test certificate
- UK degree taught in English
- Degree from an English-speaking country (UK NARIC approved)
Some applicants may be exempt from the English language requirement, including those over 65 or nationals of majority English-speaking countries.
Proof of Financial Support
You need to show you can support yourself financially unless your CoS states your employer will cover these costs.
You should provide one of the following:
- Bank statements showing at least £1,270 available for 28 consecutive days.
- A letter from your employer confirming sponsorship for maintenance.
Proof of Relationship (for dependents)
If you're applying with your partner or children, include:
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate for your partner.
- Birth certificates for children under 18.
How Can Solicitors Help with a Skilled Worker Visa Application?
- Assess whether you meet the Skilled Worker eligibility criteria.
- Advise about the supporting documents needed.
- Advice on Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Complete the visa application form correctly and submit it on time.
- Provide support in case of visa refusal, including appeals or reapplications.
- Handle correspondence with UKVI throughout the process.
- Monitor application progress and provide updates.
Contact UK Skilled Worker Visa Solicitors
Contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors at 0203 959 7755 or email info@moeenco.com if you have any questions or need assistance with your Skilled Worker visa application.
There are several ways to contact our solicitors based in Hayes, London:
- Phone - Call us on 0203 959 7755
- Email us - info@moeenco.com
- Online - Fill in our online enquiry form
- Visit our office - Room 1, The Winning Box, 27-37 Station Road, Hayes UB3 4DX
We are located near Hayes and Harlington Station on Hayes High Street, in Hayes Town Centre.
FAQs About UK Skilled Worker Visa Documents Checklist
To apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you'll need:
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- A valid passport or identity document.
- Proof of sufficient funds, unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
- Tuberculosis test results (if required).
- Criminal record certificate (if applicable).
- Additional documents depending on your circumstances.
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic record provided by your UK employer, containing details about your job offer. This is essential for your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
Book a consultation with our immigration solicitor in London to ensure you have the necessary documents before submitting your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
Yes (unless exempt), you must provide proof of your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English, either through an approved language test or a degree taught in English.
You may need to provide a criminal record certificate if your role involves working with vulnerable individuals (e.g., in healthcare, education, or social services).
If any of your documents are not in English or Welsh, they must be officially translated by a certified translator.
Your employer must be on the Home Office's approved list to sponsor you for the Skilled Worker Visa.
If they are not, they must apply for a sponsor license before you can proceed with your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
Book a consultation with our expert immigration solicitors in London to ensure you have the necessary documents before submitting your UK Skilled Worker visa application.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.
