Skilled Worker Visa Processing Time: 3 Weeks, or 5 Days

Current Processing Times

The Skilled Worker visa (see the official GOV.UK page) is one of the faster visa routes to process. Here are the current timelines:

From Outside the UK

• Standard processing: Up to 3 weeks from when you submit your biometrics at a visa application centre.
• Priority (where available): Usually within 5 working days, for £500 on top of the application fee. Super priority (£1,000) gives a decision by the end of the next working day where it is offered.

From Inside the UK

• Standard processing: Up to 8 weeks.
• Priority: Decision within 5 working days. Cost: £500.
• Super priority: Decision by the end of the next working day. Cost: £1,000.

These are the Home Office's stated processing targets. You can check the current processing times on GOV.UK. Actual times may vary.

The Full Timeline

The Skilled Worker visa process involves several stages before the actual visa processing begins:

Stage 1: Employer Gets CoS (1-4 weeks)

Before you can apply, your employer must assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). If the employer already has a sponsor licence, they can issue a CoS relatively quickly. If they need to apply for a sponsor licence first, this can add up to 8 weeks: most licence applications are decided in under 8 weeks.

Stage 2: You Submit Your Application (1-2 days)

Once you have the CoS, you complete the online application form, pay the application fee and IHS, and book a biometrics appointment.

Stage 3: Biometrics (1-2 weeks)

You attend a biometrics appointment at a visa application centre (if outside the UK) or a UKVCAS centre (if inside the UK). From inside the UK, you may also be able to use the UK Immigration: ID Check app.

Stage 4: Processing (3-8 weeks)

The Home Office processes your application. They check your CoS, verify your salary meets the salary threshold, confirm you meet the eligibility requirements, and run security checks.

Stage 5: Decision

You receive the decision by email, whether you applied from inside or outside the UK.

Common Causes of Delays

• CoS issues: If there are errors on your Certificate of Sponsorship, the Home Office may need to verify information with your employer, causing delays.
• Salary threshold questions: If your salary package involves allowances, bonuses, or non-standard payments, the Home Office may need time to assess whether it meets the threshold.
• Missing documents: Incomplete applications or missing supporting evidence will cause delays.
• Security checks: Additional screening for some nationalities or backgrounds.
• English language verification: If your English test certificate needs verification, this can add time. See our English language tests guide.

Working While Your Application Is Pending

The rules on working while your application is pending depend on your circumstances:

• Switching from inside the UK: Your existing leave continues under Section 3C while the application is decided, and you can carry on in your current job. GOV.UK says you should not start the new job until your new permission is confirmed, unless the permission you already hold allows that work (for example, as the dependant of a Skilled Worker).
• Applying from outside the UK: You cannot enter or work in the UK until your visa has been granted.
• Extending an existing Skilled Worker visa: You can continue working for your employer as normal while the extension is processed.

Tips for Faster Processing

• Make sure your CoS details are accurate before you apply.
• Submit all required documents with your initial application.
• Use priority or super priority if timing is critical.
• Have your employer check the CoS for errors before it is assigned to you.
• Take your English language test well in advance.

After Your Visa Is Granted

Once your Skilled Worker visa is granted, you can work for the employer named on your CoS. Check your employment rights on GOV.UK. If you want to change employers, you will need to apply for a new visa with a new CoS from the new employer.

After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, you can apply for ILR. For the full costs involved, see our Skilled Worker cost guide and UK visa fees guide.

If your application is refused, see our visa refused guide for your options.

Questions and answers