Job offer in hand? Timing can still derail your UK Skilled Worker visa

Getting a job offer in the UK is only the first step. The real challenge begins with the Skilled Worker visa process, where timing matters as much as eligibility. Once your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is issued, the three-month countdown starts. If you miss it, your CoS expires and your move can be pushed back by months.

The Skilled Worker visa is the most common route for overseas professionals to take up jobs in the UK. In 2025, new rules and processing times make it essential to plan ahead. The visa not only allows you to live and work in the UK but also gives a route to permanent settlement after five years. Dependants (partner and children) can usually apply with you. But these long-term benefits depend on getting the basics right at the start.

Double-check all details before submission. For anyone planning to move in 2025, securing the Skilled Worker visa on time is as critical as the job offer itself. A missed deadline or small mistake can mean extra months of waiting before you can begin your new role in the UK.

Who can apply

The visa is open to people with a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office. The role must meet the salary threshold and skill criteria. Most jobs require English proficiency and a minimum salary level. The threshold depends on the role, but shortage occupations and certain healthcare roles have lower limits.

When to apply

You can apply up to three months before the start date written on your CoS. The CoS itself is valid for three months from the date of issue. If it is not used in that period, it expires and your employer may need to issue a new one.

How long it takes

• Outside the UK: About three weeks for a decision.
  
• Inside the UK (switching or extending): Up to eight weeks.
  
• Priority service: Can reduce processing time to five working days for an extra fee.
  
  

What the process looks like

1. Job offer and CoS from a licensed UK sponsor.
2. Online visa application with supporting documents.
3. Biometric enrolment (fingerprints and photo).
4. Visa decision → then travel arrangements.

Documents usually required

• Valid passport.
  
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
  
  
• Proof of English knowledge.
  
• Financial documents (like bank statements or payslips) if your employer does not certify maintenance.
  
• Tuberculosis test results (for some countries).
  

Common causes of delays or refusals

• Errors or missing fields in the application form.
  
• Wrong or mismatched dates between CoS, job contract, and application.
  
• Missing payslips, bank records, or proof of funds.
  
• Inconsistent information across the application, passport, and employer letters.