Are you a qualified vet considering a move to the UK? The Skilled Worker Visa could be your ticket to a fulfilling career. This visa allows overseas professionals to work in the UK for approved employers. In this blog, we’ll answer frequently asked questions to help you understand the process, requirements, and what to expect.

What is the Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker Visa is a permit that allows qualified overseas professionals, including veterinary surgeons, to work in the UK. It is designed to address skill shortages and attract global talent.

• Purpose: This visa enables you to work in the UK for an approved employer.

• Duration: Typically, the visa is valid for up to five years, and you can apply to extend it. After five years, you may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which grants permanent residency in the UK.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, you need to meet several criteria. These include:

1. A Job Offer
You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK-based employer who is a licensed sponsor. These employers are approved by the UK government to hire international workers.

2. Meeting the Skill Level
Your role must meet the skill level of RQF Level 3 or higher. For veterinary surgeons, this requirement is automatically satisfied.

3. Earning the Required Salary
Salary requirements vary depending on your circumstances:

• Standard Requirement: You must earn a minimum of £48,100 per year for a 37.5-hour workweek. If you work more hours, the salary requirement adjusts accordingly. Note that only your base salary is considered, so bonuses and overtime won’t count.

• New Entrants: If you are under 26, working towards UK qualifications, or gaining full registration, you may qualify for a reduced salary threshold of £33,390.

4. Demonstrating English Language Proficiency
You must prove your ability to communicate effectively in English. You can do this by:

• Passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT).

• Holding a UK GCSE, A-level, or equivalent qualification.

• Having a degree taught in English (if obtained outside the UK, it must be verified).

• Passing an English assessment conducted by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
  If you’re a national of an English-speaking country like the USA, Canada, or Australia, you’re exempt from this requirement.

5. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship confirming that the role meets visa requirements.

6. Financial Proof
You need to show evidence of £1,270 in personal savings, unless your employer is willing to cover these costs.

What is the Application Process?

Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa involves several steps:

1. Secure a Job Offer
   Your first step is to secure a role with an approved UK employer.

2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
   Once hired, your employer will issue a CoS to support your application.

3. Gather the Required Documents
   You will need:

   • The CoS reference number.

   • Proof of English language proficiency.

   • A valid passport or other identity documents.

   • Evidence of personal savings.

   • Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable.

   • Police clearance certificates, if required for time spent abroad.

4. Submit Your Application Online
   You can apply up to three months before your start date.

5. Pay the Necessary Fees

• Visa Fees: £719 for visas up to three years or £1,420 for visas longer than three years.

• Healthcare Surcharge: £1,035 annually.

• Extension Fees (if applying within the UK): £827 (up to three years) or £1,636 (more than three years).

1. Prove Your Identity
   You may need to visit a visa application centre or use the UK Immigration app to verify your identity.

2. Wait for a Decision
   Processing times vary:

• Applications outside the UK: Typically three weeks.

• Applications inside the UK: Usually eight weeks.
  Faster options, like Priority (five working days) or Super Priority (next working day), are available for an additional fee.

How Long Does the Process Take?

The timeline for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa depends on your situation.

• Best-case scenario: The entire process, from job offer to visa approval, can take 1–2 months.

• Complex cases: Additional checks may extend the timeline to 3–4 months or longer.

Can I Work Overtime or Take Another Job?

Yes, but there are some conditions:

• You can work unlimited overtime in your sponsored role without needing to update your visa.

• You may take on an additional job or voluntary work for up to 20 hours per week, as long as it’s in a related role.

• You must update your visa if you change employers, switch job roles, or exceed 20 hours in a second job.

Can My Family Join Me?

Your partner and children can join you in the UK as your dependants.

Eligibility:

• Your partner (spouse, civil partner, or long-term partner).

• Children under 18, or older dependants already in the UK.

Financial Requirements:

• £285 for your partner.

• £315 for your first child and £200 for each additional child.
  Funds must be held for at least 28 days or confirmed by your employer.

Visa Duration:
Your dependants’ visas will match the duration of your own.

Do I Need to Register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS)?

Yes, registration with the RCVS is mandatory to practise as a vet in the UK.

This guide is designed to simplify the Skilled Worker Visa process for veterinary professionals. For further details and the latest updates, always refer to the UK government’s Skilled Worker Visa page or consult an immigration advisor.

Taking the next step in your veterinary career has never been more accessible—start your journey to the UK today!