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The United Kingdom has long been a preferred destination for Indian professionals seeking better career opportunities, higher salaries, and international work exposure. With a strong job market and a diverse economy, the UK attracts skilled workers from various sectors, including technology, healthcare, finance, and engineering.
If you’re an Indian professional planning to work in the UK, understanding the visa requirements, eligibility criteria, and the application process is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about UK work visas, including the types of visas available, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step application process.
The UK offers several types of work visas depending on the nature of employment, skill level, and duration. Here are the most common work visas for Indians:
The Skilled Worker visa is the most popular UK work visa for Indians. It allows skilled professionals to work in the UK for an approved employer who is a licensed sponsor.
Eligibility Criteria:
• A job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
• The job must be on the list of eligible occupations.
• Minimum salary threshold of £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour (exceptions apply for shortage occupations).
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Sufficient funds to support yourself (at least £1,270 in your bank account).
Validity: Up to 5 years, with an option to extend and apply for permanent residency.
This visa is for healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and social care workers who have a job offer from the NHS, an NHS supplier, or the adult social care sector.
Eligibility Criteria:
• Must be a qualified health or care worker.
• A job offer from a UK employer that is on the approved sponsor list.
• Minimum salary of £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour.
• English language proficiency.
Benefits: Faster processing, reduced visa fees, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.
For employees of multinational companies who are transferred to the UK branch for work.
Eligibility Criteria:
• Must be a senior executive or specialist employee.
• Sponsored by a UK company.
• Minimum salary requirement varies based on the type of job.
This visa is for graduates from top-ranked global universities who wish to work in the UK without needing a job offer.
Eligibility Criteria:
• Graduated within the last 5 years from an eligible university.
• English language proficiency.
• Sufficient funds for self-support.
Validity: 2 years (or 3 years for PhD holders).
This is for students who have completed a UK degree and want to stay and work in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria:
• Completed an eligible UK degree.
• Visa validity: 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates).
• No job offer required.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet all the requirements for the specific visa type.
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
If applying for a Skilled Worker visa, your UK employer must issue a CoS, which contains details of your job and sponsorship.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
• Valid passport
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) (for sponsored visas)
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, UK degree, or equivalent)
• Proof of sufficient funds (£1,270 in your bank account)
• Criminal record certificate (if required)
• Tuberculosis test results (if required)
Step 4: Apply Online
Submit your application via the UK government website and pay the visa fee.
Step 5: Attend Biometric Appointment
Visit a UK visa application centre in India to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 6: Wait for Decision
The processing time for most work visas is 3-8 weeks. Some applications may qualify for priority processing.
The visa fees depend on the type of work visa and job duration.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year (exempt for Health and Care Worker Visa).
• Priority processing (optional): Additional £500-£800.
Yes, most UK work visas allow dependents (spouse and children) to accompany you.
Requirements:
• Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates).
• Each dependent must have £285 to £315 per month in savings.
• Dependents can work or study in the UK.
If you hold a Skilled Worker visa or certain other work visas for 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to UK permanent residency.
ILR Requirements:
• Continuous residence in the UK for 5 years.
• No major criminal offenses.
• Pass the Life in the UK test.
• Meet the minimum salary threshold.
The UK offers multiple pathways for Indian professionals to work and settle in the country. Choosing the right work visa depends on your job role, employer sponsorship, and qualifications. With proper planning and the right documentation, your journey to working in the UK can be smooth and successful.
If you need help with visa applications, job placements, or studying in the UK, Onebounce can guide you through the entire process. Get in touch with a counsellor today.
