Work & Study Immigration
Since the introduction of the points-based immigration system following the end of free movement, individuals from outside the UK who wish to work in the United Kingdom generally require either a Skilled Worker visa or one of the other work routes under the Immigration Rules. Each route has its own requirements, and eligibility is determined by reference to both the applicant personal circumstances and the nature of the role in the UK.
Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa is the primary work route for individuals seeking employment in the UK. To be eligible, applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor, the role must meet the required skill level (RQF level 3 or above), and the salary must meet the applicable threshold — either the general salary threshold or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher.
Britlaw Solicitors advises both applicants and sponsored workers on the Skilled Worker visa requirements, including:
- Eligibility assessment against the Skilled Worker requirements
- Salary threshold requirements, including relevant occupation codes
- English language requirements
- Switching to the Skilled Worker route from within the UK
- Extensions and updates to Skilled Worker leave
- Dependant applications for family members
Health and Care Worker Visa
The Health and Care Worker visa is a sub-category of the Skilled Worker route available to qualified doctors, nurses, health professionals, and adult social care workers employed by the NHS, NHS-commissioned bodies, or employers registered with the Care Quality Commission. This route benefits from reduced application fees and is exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge for eligible applicants.
We advise healthcare professionals on eligibility for this route, including on the qualifying occupations and the requirements that must be met by the sponsoring employer. We also advise on the process where an applicant role changes or they move between NHS or CQC-registered employers.
Student Visa
The Student visa allows individuals aged 16 or over to study at a UK institution holding a Student sponsor licence. Applicants must demonstrate they have been offered a place on a course at an approved institution, have sufficient funds to cover fees and living costs, and meet the English language requirement at the appropriate level.
We advise students on their visa applications, including where there are previous refusals or complications, and on their rights during their period of study in the UK, including permission to work and conditions of leave.
Graduate Visa
The Graduate visa allows international students who have successfully completed a UK degree to remain in the UK for up to two years (three years for doctoral graduates) to work or look for work. This is an unsponsored route — applicants do not need a job offer at the time of application. The Graduate visa can be an important stepping stone towards the Skilled Worker route for those who secure graduate-level employment.
Dependants
In most work visa categories, the visa holder spouse or civil partner, unmarried partner, and dependent children may be eligible to apply for leave as dependants. We advise on the specific requirements for each category and assist with preparing dependant applications alongside or separately from the main application.