Breaking Down the Points-Based System: Understanding the Criteria for UK Skilled Work Visas

The United Kingdom has long been a desirable destination for professionals seeking to advance their careers and enjoy a high quality of life. One of the key pathways for skilled workers to enter the UK is through the Skilled Worker Visa, which operates under the Points-Based System (PBS). At Select Overseas Immigration Pvt Ltd, we specialize in helping individuals navigate this complex system to achieve their career aspirations in the UK. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the Points-Based System and help you understand the criteria for obtaining a UK Skilled Worker Visa.

What is the Points-Based System?

The Points-Based System (PBS) is a structured framework designed to manage immigration to the UK. It assigns points to applicants based on various factors such as job offer, salary, qualifications, and English language proficiency. To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must accumulate a minimum of 70 points. This system ensures that only those who meet the necessary criteria can work in the UK, helping to balance the country’s economic needs with immigration control.

Core Criteria for the Skilled Worker Visa

The PBS for the Skilled Worker Visa comprises mandatory criteria and tradeable points. Let’s delve into each aspect:

1. Job Offer from an Approved Sponsor (20 Points)

To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must have a job offer from an approved UK employer who holds a valid sponsor license. This employer will be your sponsor and is responsible for providing you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

Approved Sponsor: Ensure your employer is listed on the UK government’s register of licensed sponsors.
Certificate of Sponsorship: Your employer will issue a CoS, which includes details of your job role, salary, and duration of employment.

2. Job at the Appropriate Skill Level (20 Points)

Your job offer must be at or above the required skill level, which is typically RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels) or above. The job should be listed on the eligible occupations list, ensuring it meets the necessary skill criteria.

Eligible Occupations: Refer to the UK government’s list of eligible occupations to verify that your job qualifies.

3. English Language Proficiency (10 Points)

Proficiency in English is mandatory for the Skilled Worker Visa. You must demonstrate your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English at an appropriate level.

Accepted Tests: You can prove your proficiency through approved English language tests such as IELTS, or by having a degree taught in English.
Exemptions: Citizens of majority English-speaking countries or those with academic qualifications taught in English may be exempt from testing.

4. Salary Threshold (Points Vary)

To qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa, your salary must meet a minimum threshold, which varies depending on the job role and sector. The general minimum salary threshold is £25,600 per year or the “going rate” for the job, whichever is higher.

Higher Salary: If your salary meets or exceeds the general threshold or going rate, you earn 20 points.
Tradeable Points: If your salary is below the threshold but above £20,480, you may still qualify by trading points, provided you meet other criteria such as having a job in a shortage occupation or holding a relevant PhD.

Tradeable Points

In addition to the core criteria, there are several tradeable points that can help you reach the 70-point requirement.

1. Salary Between £20,480 and £23,039 (10 Points)

If your salary falls between £20,480 and £23,039, you can still gain points if you meet other specific criteria.

2. Job in a Shortage Occupation (20 Points)

Certain job roles are listed as shortage occupations, indicating high demand and a shortage of qualified workers in the UK. If your job is on this list, you can earn an additional 20 points.

Shortage Occupation List: Check the latest shortage occupation list published by the UK government to see if your job qualifies.

3. PhD in a Relevant Subject (10-20 Points)

Holding a PhD can earn you additional points, depending on the relevance to your job role.

Relevant PhD: A PhD relevant to your job can earn you 10 points.
STEM PhD: A PhD in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) can earn you 20 points.

Additional Considerations

1. Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself upon arriving in the UK. This typically means having at least £1,270 available to you, unless your sponsor can cover your costs during your first month.

2. Criminal Record Certificate

For certain job roles, particularly in health, education, and social work, you will need to provide a criminal record certificate from any country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.

3. Health Surcharge

You will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application. This grants you access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
Proof of English language proficiency
Evidence of salary and job offer details
Financial evidence
Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
Health surcharge payment

2. Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted online through the UK government’s official immigration portal. Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejections.

3. Biometric Appointment

You will need to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This is a standard part of the visa application process.

4. Decision and Arrival

After submitting your application and attending the biometric appointment, you will receive a decision. If approved, you will receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK. Upon arrival, you will collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

Support from Select Overseas Immigration Pvt Ltd

Navigating the Points-Based System and the Skilled Worker Visa application process can be complex and overwhelming. At Select Overseas Immigration Pvt Ltd, we offer comprehensive support and expert guidance to ensure a smooth application process.

Our Services

Eligibility Assessment: We help you determine if you meet the criteria and identify areas for improvement.
Document Preparation: Our team assists you in gathering and verifying all required documents.
Application Submission: We guide you through the online application process, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Post-Arrival Support: We offer support in settling in the UK, including finding accommodation and understanding local services.