Skilled Worker Route

Skilled Worker Visa
Employer Guide 2026

From Certificate of Sponsorship assignment through to visa grant. Fully updated for 2026 salary thresholds and English language requirements.

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£41,700
Minimum Salary 2026
3–8 Weeks
Visa Processing Time
5 Years
Initial Visa Duration
2026
Thresholds Updated
What We Handle

End-to-End Skilled
Worker Visa Support

  • Eligibility assessment for the role and the specific worker
  • SOC code verification and salary compliance check
  • CoS assignment via your SMS portal
  • Preparation guidance for the worker's visa application
  • Document checklist and review before submission
  • Application tracking through to Home Office decision
  • Post-approval onboarding and compliance briefing

The 2026 salary threshold is £41,700. Some roles have higher going rates. We verify the exact figure for every role before assigning a CoS a salary error at this stage causes a visa refusal that cannot be corrected.

2026 Requirements

What the Worker
Must Demonstrate

  • Valid job offer from a licensed sponsor at the correct salary
  • Role meets RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or above
  • English language ability at B1 CEFR level or above
  • Sufficient funds to support themselves (unless exempt)
  • No serious criminal convictions
  • Valid passport and biometric information

"ACG handled the entire CoS and visa process for our senior hire. Everything was immaculate and the visa was granted first time. We will use them for every future hire."

Head of People
SaaS Company, London
Professional being welcomed to new role
Processing Times

How Long Does a Skilled Worker Visa Take?

Standard processing takes 3 8 weeks from the date of application. Priority processing (additional fee to UKVI) can reduce this to 5 working days in most cases. We advise on the right service level for your hiring timeline and manage the process from CoS assignment to decision.

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FAQ

Common Questions

£41,700 per year from 22 July 2025 for most roles. Some roles have specific going rates that exceed this we verify the exact figure for every CoS before assignment.
Yes. Workers already in the UK on another visa can switch to the Skilled Worker route without leaving, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Up to 5 years initially. It can be extended and may lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years of continuous residence.
Yes. The worker must demonstrate English language ability at B1 CEFR level or above. This is usually satisfied by a recognised test, a degree taught in English, or nationality from a majority English-speaking country.
You must report the worker's departure via your SMS within 10 working days. Failure to report is a compliance breach that can affect your sponsor licence.

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Tell us about your business. We confirm eligibility and give you a clear cost within 2 hours.

  • No obligation at any point
  • Response within 2 hours on working days
  • 200+ applications completed
  • Direct access to your adviser throughout
+44 20 3951 8972 WhatsApp Us

Free Eligibility Assessment

We call you back within 2 hours on working days.

Your details are kept strictly confidential.