Many people find the idea to work in the UK to be attractive, but to be eligible; you must fulfill a number of requirements.
Let’s explore the necessary actions to work in the UK eligibility.
How to Be Eligible to Work in the UK?
- UK Work Visa System
Getting entry into the UK workforce requires having an understanding of its visa system, which has multiple categories based on your qualifications, abilities, and employment offer.
The majority of foreign citizens need a work visa, yet the requirements for each type of visa vary.
1. Skilled Worker Visa
- Professionals who have received job offers from UK-based firms are eligible for the skilled worker visa.
2. Health and Care Worker Visa
- Healthcare professionals who wish to work in social care or the NHS may apply for a Health and Care Worker Visa.
3. Global Talent Visa
- For professionals in the sciences, technology, and arts
4. Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
- With a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, young people from select countries (between the ages of 18 and 30) can live and work in the UK for a maximum of two years.
Work, jobs in United Kingdom (with Salaries) – CLICK HERE
Skilled Worker Visa – The Common Path
For international professionals, one of the most common pathways is the Skilled Worker Visa. A verified job offer from an employer located in the UK is required to be eligible.
Specific requirements, like a minimum income level and being in a qualified occupation, must be met by your employment offer.
- Job Offer
The Home Office must have authorized a work offer from a UK business.
- Salary Requirements
Your role’s pay must be at least the “going rate” for the position or the minimum threshold, which is often £26,200 per year.
- Sponsorship
To validate the job offer, the employer needs to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS).
English Language Requirement
The majority of UK employment visas need English proficiency to work in the UK.
This typically occurs by taking an authorized exam, like the TOEFL or IELTS.
- English Tests
The majority of visa applicants must complete an approved English language test.
- Exemptions
This standard may not apply to applicants from countries that speak English, and people with degrees taught in English may also be eligible to apply without taking an exam.
Read: Is getting UK Student visa easy?
Certificates of Sponsorship (COS)
Many visa applications, including the Skilled Worker Visa, require a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS). It is from your employer and includes information regarding your offer of employment.
- What is a COS?
It is a reference number linked to your employment offer and employer sponsorship rather than a physical document.
- Getting a COS
Your employer needs to be listed on the Home Office-approved list of licensed sponsors.
You are unable to apply for a work visa without a COS.
Job Skills and Qualifications
There is a shortage occupation list in the UK that contains highly desirable occupations. It may be simpler to apply for a visa if your job is on this list.
- Shortage Occupation List
Certain occupations, including engineering and medical, are in great demand and may qualify for a quicker visa approval process as well as reduced wage requirements.
- Recognized Qualifications
Depending on your line of work, you could require official UK recognition or verification of your qualifications.
Health and Character Requirements
- Criminal Record Check
To work in the UK, you could be required to show a police clearance from the country in which you have resided for specific visa categories.
- Medical and Health Insurance
Some visa categories demand evidence of medical examinations or health insurance, so using the NHS could lead to an additional cost.
Bottom Line
There are other conditions to meet to be allowed to work in the UK, including getting a visa and fulfilling character and health standards.
