Skilled Worker Visa for HGV and Lorry Drivers

HGV Drivers and the Skilled Worker Route

Large goods vehicle (HGV) drivers were added to the Skilled Worker route. This means a licensed employer can sponsor an overseas lorry driver, where the role and pay meet the rules.

HGV stands for heavy goods vehicle. The official term you will see in the rules is "large goods vehicle". Both refer to the same kind of work.

The SOC Code

Every job on the route has a SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code. Large goods vehicle drivers have their own code on the eligible jobs list. The code sets the going rate for the role.

Check the current list on GOV.UK to confirm the exact code and that driving roles are still included, because the list can change.

The Driving Licence You Need

You need the correct driving entitlement for the vehicle you will drive:

• Category C lets you drive a large goods vehicle.
• Category C+E lets you drive a large goods vehicle with a trailer.

Your employer will tell you which category the job needs. If you hold an overseas licence, check the GOV.UK rules on exchanging it or gaining UK entitlement for large goods vehicles. You usually cannot drive these vehicles for work until you hold the right UK entitlement.

How Sponsorship Works

You need an employer with a sponsor licence. The employer gives you a Certificate of Sponsorship, which is an electronic record that confirms the job and the pay. You then use it to apply for your visa.

You can check the register of licensed sponsors on GOV.UK to see whether a haulage firm can sponsor you.