Tier 2 (General) Visa

The UK's Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals to work in the UK in a role offered by a UK employer approved by the Home Office.

This visa has replaced the former Tier 2 (General) work visa.

Am I eligible for a Tier 2 (General) Skilled Worker Visa?

Job Offer: Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence.

Skill Level: The job must be at or above the required skill level (RQF level 3 or above, equivalent to A-level).

Salary Threshold: Earn a salary that meets the specific threshold for the role, typically at least £25,600 per year or the 'going rate' for the occupation, whichever is higher. There are exceptions if the job is on the shortage occupation list or if you have a relevant PhD.

English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English by passing an approved English language test at the required level or by having an academic qualification taught in English.

Financial Requirements: Show you have sufficient personal savings to support yourself upon arrival in the UK, unless your sponsor can confirm maintenance.



Additional Requirements: Provide a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer, proof of your English language ability, and evidence of personal savings (if applicable).

Bringing Your Spouse, Partner, and Children to the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa

If you're moving to the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa, you can bring your spouse or partner and children under 18 with you as dependants. Each dependant needs to apply separately, and you’ll need to show that you can support them financially—unless your employer agrees to cover these costs.

Financial Requirement for Dependants

To bring your family with you, you must show that you have had the following amounts in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying:

• £285 for your partner
• £315 for your first child
• £200 for each additional child

For example, if you're applying with your spouse and two children, you’ll need to show you have at least £800 in savings. If your UK employer confirms they will cover these costs, you won’t need to provide proof of funds.

Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) for Dependants

Your dependants will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access healthcare through the NHS. This costs £624 per person per year.

If your visa is for five years, the IHS fee will be £3,120 per person. So, for a family of four, the total healthcare surcharge would be £12,480.

Visa Application Fees for Dependants

The cost of each visa depends on the length of stay and where you apply from:



• If applying from outside the UK, a visa up to 3 years costs £719 per person, and a visa over 3 years costs £1,420 per person.
• If applying from inside the UK, a visa up to 3 years costs £827 per person, and a visa over 3 years costs £1,636 per person.

For example, if you, your partner, and two children apply from outside the UK for a visa lasting more than three years, the total application fees would be £5,680.

Total Estimated Cost for a Family of Four

When applying for a five-year visa, the total cost for a family of four (you, your partner, and two children) would be around £18,160, including visa fees and healthcare charges.

Can Your Employer Help with the Costs?

Some Skilled Worker Visa applicants negotiate with their employer to cover part or all of these costs. Your employer may agree to pay the visa fees or the healthcare surcharge as part of your job offer—so it’s always worth asking.

How We Can Help

Our immigration lawyers can guide you through the Skilled Worker Visa application process, ensuring everything is completed correctly. If your application is refused, we can help you challenge the decision and advise on the best course of action.

With visa applications, it’s important to have expert legal advice tailored to your situation. Get in touch with KLR Solicitors today for friendly, professional support.

For a consultation regarding your Tier 2 (general) Skilled Worker Visa application or refusal

please call us on 0208 300 6666 or complete the form below.