Skilled Worker Visa for the UK: Updated Process for Indians (2025)

What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows foreign nationals - including Indians - to live and work in the UK in eligible job roles sponsored by licensed UK employers. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa and is valid for up to 5 years, with a pathway to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain or ILR).

 

What Are the New Changes to the UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2025?

Updates to the UK Skilled Worker Visa, implemented on April 4, 2024, continue to impact Indian applicants in 2025:

• Higher salary threshold: Minimum salary raised to £38,700 per year for most jobs.
  
  
• Shortage Occupation List replaced: The Shortage Occupation List was replaced by a new Immigration Salary List (ISL) which updates eligible roles.
  
  
• No more 20% discount: All roles must meet the full salary threshold unless specific transitional arrangements or exceptions apply for those already on the pathway before the rule changes, or if a role is on the ISL and meets specific criteria for a lower threshold (though the general 20% discount for shortage occupations is gone).
  
  
• Faster processing for Indians: Priority visa slots may be available under the India-UK Migration Partnership, alongside standard processing options.
  
  

These changes increase the competitiveness of the UK visa application process, but also streamline it for high-demand roles in technology, healthcare, and engineering.

Who Is Eligible for the UK Skilled Worker Visa (Indians)?

To qualify in 2025, Indian applicants must meet the following UK visa eligibility criteria:

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Job offer	Must be from a UK-licensed sponsor
Occupation	Roles must be eligible for the Skilled Worker visa, and if applying for a lower salary threshold, it may need to appear on the Immigration Salary List or meet other specific criteria (e.g., new entrant, health and care worker).
Salary	Most roles require at least £38,700 or the occupation’s ‘going rate’ - whichever is higher. Lower thresholds may apply for ISL roles, 'new entrants', or eligible Health and Care Worker visa jobs in health or education.
English proficiency	Prove English language ability to at least level B1 on the CEFR scale, for example, by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider (like IELTS with minimum scores typically at 4.0 in all sections), or by having a degree taught or researched in English.
TB test certificate	Mandatory for Indian nationals
Proof of funds	£1,270 in bank account or employer-covered maintenance

 

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa from India (2025)

Step 1: Get a Job Offer

Search on UK job platforms such as LinkedIn UK, NHS Jobs, or UK Tech Jobs. Ensure the employer is listed on the official UK sponsor license list. This is your starting point for securing UK visa sponsorship jobs.

Step 2: Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your UK employer will provide a digital Certificate of Sponsorship detailing your job role, salary, and sponsorship number.

Step 3: Check Your Eligibility

Confirm your job meets the salary and skill criteria. Ensure your role appears on the Immigration Salary List and meets minimum salary thresholds required for the UK work visa for Indians.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

• Valid passport
  
  
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
  
  
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., SELT certificate or degree certificate)
  
  
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate
  
  
• Proof of funds or sponsorship
  
  
• Educational qualifications or work experience documents
  
  

Step 5: Apply Online

• Submit your UK visa application from India at: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/apply.
  
  
• Choose your processing option: standard or priority visa.
  
  

Step 6: Attend VFS Appointment in India

Schedule your biometric appointment at a VFS Global center and submit all required documents. Priority slots are available in major Indian cities.

Step 7: Receive Decision and Travel to the UK

If approved, you will receive a visa vignette and travel to the UK. Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will be issued upon arrival.

UK Skilled Worker Visa Costs for Indians (2025)

Cost Type	Amount
Visa fee (up to 3 years)	£719 (standard) or £551 (if job is on ISL or in certain health/education roles)
Visa fee (more than 3 years)	£1,423 (standard) or £1,084 (if job is on ISL or in certain health/education roles)
Immigration Health Surcharge	£1,035 per year
TB Test	₹2,500 – ₹3,500
IELTS Exam	₹15,000 – ₹17,000
VFS Biometric Appointment	₹3,000+ (varies by location)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Indians still apply for shortage occupation roles in 2025?


A: Yes, but the concept of a general 20% salary discount for shortage occupations has been removed. Roles now on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) may have a lower salary threshold (e.g., £30,960 or 80% of the going rate, depending on the specific ISL conditions) but must still meet that specific ISL threshold.

 

Q: Is IELTS mandatory for Indian applicants?


A: No, not specifically IELTS. Proof of English language proficiency to B1 CEFR level is required. IELTS is one of the approved tests, but other approved SELTs or qualifications (like a degree taught in English) may also be accepted.

 

Q: How long does visa processing take in 2025?

A:

• Standard: 3 weeks (target from outside the UK)
  
  
• Priority: 5 business days
  
  
• Super Priority: Next working day (available in select cities)

(Note: Actual processing times can vary depending on application volume and individual circumstances.)

Tips to Improve Your Chances

1. Focus on roles that meet the eligibility criteria, including those listed on the Immigration Salary List, especially in IT, healthcare, and engineering..
   
   
2. Use UK-format CVs that are concise, results-oriented, and ATS-friendly.
   
   
3. Schedule your VFS appointment and prepare all documents early.
   
   
4. Apply only through verified UK job portals and avoid unlicensed agents.
   
   
5. If already in the UK, consider switching from a graduate visa or student visa.
   
   
   

Why Indian Talent Is in High Demand in the UK (2025)

India remains the top source country for UK Skilled Worker Visas. Key facts:

• According to Home Office statistics, over 66,000 sponsored work visas (main applicants) were granted to Indian nationals in 2024, making them the largest group of recipients.
  
  
• Most were in STEM, tech, and healthcare sectors.
  
  
• The India-UK Migration Partnership continues to expand access and streamline UK immigration rules.
  
  

Final Summary: UK Skilled Worker Visa for Indians in 2025

The UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2025 offers Indian professionals an exciting opportunity to live and work legally in the UK, with a path to settlement.

With updated rules, higher salary requirements, and faster processing, the UK work permit for Indians is more structured and competitive - but still achievable with proper preparation. By planning early and following this guide, you can position yourself for success in the UK job market.