If you are planning to move to the UK for work, then applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa is one of the best ways to do it. This visa allows skilled professionals from outside the UK to live and work there legally. The UK government uses a points-based system to decide who can get this visa. This means you have to collect a certain number of points to qualify. These points are based on different factors such as your job offer, salary, qualifications, English skills, and other details.
The more points you earn, the better your chances of getting approved. Many people don’t fully understand how to get these points or think it’s too difficult. But in reality, if you know what steps to take and what areas to focus on, it becomes much easier. In this blog, we will explain in very simple words how you can earn more points for the UK Skilled Worker Visa and increase your chances of moving to the UK for a better future.
What Is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a special visa given to people who have a job offer from a UK employer. The job must be on the list of eligible occupations. You also need to meet certain salary and English language requirements. This visa lets you stay in the UK for up to 5 years, and you can apply for permanent residency later if you qualify.
How Many Points Do You Need?
To apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, you need to earn at least 70 points. Out of these, 50 points come from mandatory requirements, and the other 20 points are tradable. Tradable means you can earn them in different ways, and you don’t have to meet all the options just enough to get the points.
Ways to Earn More Points for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
1. Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor (20 Points)
The first and most important step is getting a job offer from a UK employer who is approved to hire foreign workers. This is worth 20 points. Make sure your employer is on the list of licensed sponsors. Without this, you cannot apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa.
2. Make Sure Your Job is on the Eligible Occupation List (20 Points)
Your job must match one of the roles on the UK’s official list of eligible occupations. These jobs are in areas where the UK needs more workers. If your job is on the list, you get another 20 points. Check the list carefully before applying.
3. Meet the English Language Requirement (10 Points)
You need to prove that you can speak, read, write, and understand English. Most people take an approved English test like IELTS. If you pass, you get 10 points. This is a must for everyone applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa.
4. Salary – Higher Salary Means More Points (Up to 20 Points)
Salary is one of the main ways to earn extra points. Here’s how it works:
- If your salary is at least £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour – you get 20 points.
- If your salary is lower, like £23,040 or 90% of the job’s standard rate – you get 10 points.
- If it’s even lower, you may not get any points unless other conditions are met.
To earn more points, try to negotiate a better salary or apply for jobs that offer higher pay.
5. Job in a Shortage Occupation (Extra 20 Points)
If your job is listed as a shortage occupation, you get 20 tradable points, even if your salary is slightly lower. These are jobs where the UK needs more people, such as nurses, care workers, civil engineers, or chefs. So, if your skills match these jobs, your chance of getting a UK Skilled Worker Visa becomes much higher.
6. PhD Qualification in a Relevant Field (10 or 20 Points)
If you have a PhD in a subject related to your job, you can earn extra points. You get:
- 10 points for a PhD in a related subject.
- 20 points if your PhD is in a STEM subject (science, technology, engineering, or maths) and your job needs it.
So, if you are highly educated, you can use your degree to earn more points for your UK Skilled Worker Visa.
7. Jobs in Health or Education (Alternative Salary Rules)
Some jobs in health and education have different salary rules. For example, if you’re a nurse, teacher, or social worker, you may qualify even if your salary is lower than the usual limit. These roles often help you earn the required points easily.
Tips to Increase Your Points
- Choose shortage jobs: You may qualify with a lower salary.
- Get certified in your field: Proper qualifications can help you stand out.
- Improve your English score: A higher score shows better communication skills.
- Look for higher-paying roles: More salary means more points.
- Consider getting more education: A master’s or PhD can add points.
The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a golden opportunity to work and settle in the UK. But to get it, you need to understand how the points system works. As we discussed above, you need to score at least 70 points, and there are many ways to do it. Start with a proper job offer, make sure your job is on the occupation list, meet the English requirement, and then look for ways to earn extra points through salary, qualifications, or shortage of roles.
It may seem hard at first, but once you know the steps, you can plan your way to success. Always double-check the latest rules and guidance from the UK government before applying. With the right approach and preparation, getting the UK Skilled Worker Visa is definitely within your reach.
If your dream is to live and work in the UK, the UK Skilled Worker Visa is your best path forward. Focus on the points that matter most, stay prepared, and take action today!
