Skilled Worker (Tier 2) Visas
The Skilled Worker visa, formerly known as the Tier 2 General visa, is the UK’s primary route for skilled professionals seeking employment. This visa allows individuals to live and work in the UK for up to five years and can lead to permanent residency.
Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa
Under the UK’s current immigration system, the Skilled Worker visa has replaced the previous Tier 2 route. To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office and possess a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from that employer.
Our Skilled Worker Visa Services
At HM & Co. Solicitors, we offer comprehensive support for both employers and employees navigating the Skilled Worker visa process. Our services include:
Sponsorship Licence Assistance: Guiding employers through obtaining a sponsorship licence to hire skilled workers.
Visa Application Support: Assisting employees with the preparation and submission of their visa applications.
Compliance Audits: Conducting mock audits to ensure companies meet Home Office compliance requirements.
Relocation Services: Providing support for staff relocation matters.
Our team of specialists ensures that each case is handled with professionalism and efficiency.
Benefits of the Skilled Worker Visa
Holders of the Skilled Worker visa enjoy several advantages:National Audit Office (NAO)
Pathway to Settlement: After five years, visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Family Inclusion: Applicants can bring their spouse or partner and children under 18 to the UK.
Access to Education: Dependent children are entitled to free UK education.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Skilled Worker visa, applicants must:
Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship licence.
Possess a Certificate of Sponsorship from their employer.
Meet the required skill level for the job.
Satisfy the English language proficiency requirements.
Meet the minimum salary threshold set by the Home Office.
How HM & Co. Solicitors Can Assist
Navigating the Skilled Worker visa process can be complex. Our experienced immigration lawyers provide tailored advice and support to ensure a smooth application process. Whether you’re an employer seeking to hire international talent or an individual aiming to work in the UK, we’re here to help.
Contact Us Today
For expert assistance with Skilled Worker visas, contact HM & Co. Solicitors at 0207 118 4546 or send us a message. Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Your Questions, Answered
FAQs
Hiring Foreign Workers – FAQs
Can I hire foreign workers for my UK business?
Yes, absolutely. Under the Skilled Worker visa scheme (formerly known as Tier 2), UK businesses with an approved sponsor licence can employ skilled workers from overseas. There is no cap on the number of foreign workers you can sponsor, provided each role meets the eligibility requirements and appropriate salary thresholds are met.
Do I need to advertise the role before hiring a foreign national?
No. The previous "resident labour market test" requirement has been removed. While advertising is not mandatory, you must still demonstrate that the vacancy is genuine and meets the conditions of the Skilled Worker visa route.
Can I sponsor a foreign worker for any job?
Not all roles are eligible. The position must be classified as a ‘skilled occupation’ under the government's updated list. However, the definition of skilled work has been broadened in recent years. Our immigration team can advise whether your vacancy qualifies under the current rules.
Can I hire part-time workers under the Skilled Worker route?
No. The visa requires the role to be full-time. The position should also be permanent or on a long-term contract. Temporary or zero-hours roles generally do not meet the eligibility criteria.
If I run a recruitment agency, can I sponsor workers to place with clients?
No. The sponsored worker must be directly employed by your company and must work under your direction and control. Outsourcing or supplying workers to third-party clients under this scheme is not permitted. If your business is looking to recruit internationally or needs support with sponsor compliance, please get in touch with HM & Co. Solicitors. Our business immigration specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.
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What Our Clients Are Saying
I have been using HM & Co. Solicitors since Feb 2020 for my Non-Molestation order and Child Arrangements proceedings. Since using them I have had two amazing solicitors on my case, Felicia and Ayesha.
This has been the first time I have ever been to court and had been quite nervous, especially due to the sensitivity of the proceedings. Felicia and Ayesha have been nothing but patient, professional and understanding.
I have felt very supportive and reassured throughout the proceedings and they have made sure that I understand what is going on throughout all the hearings.
If anyone is ever needing of legal help relating to Domestic Violence or Child Arrangements, I will always recommend HM & Co. Solicitor, Felicia and Ayesha.
Thank you again for all your help and support!
Love to say a massive thank you to HM & Co.Solicitors for a job well done on my two cases, really excited with the way my case was handle by Miss Daisy was amazing with good communication with client, very supportive, professional. I will recommend them to anyone experiencing legal/family issues and need legal advice/support. Miss O Adesina.
HM & Co. Solicitors are so helpful from receptionists right to the solicitors. I've had a few applications made to the court, which includes a non molestation order, recovering my son's passport from his dad and also arranging visits and Felicia is such a professional, organised solicitor who knows her staff so well. She is a blessing and willing to help. She thinks outside the box, and finds solutions in the blink of an eye! Besides her expertise in this field, she will not hesitate to speak up and stand firm when necessary. I am very grateful for her and the company who are so supportive and helpful. Highly recommend!
HM & Co. Solicitors provided an excellent service when supporting us to purchase a flat (where we are first time buyers).
Michael, our solicitor, explained the process clearly so it was not stressful, and acted efficiently to speed up the process. He also ensured we did not exchange immediately due to uncertainty over building works, which saved us a lot of money in the long-run. His judgement calls were excellent and ensured we came out with the best deal possible. I would not hesitate to work with HM &Co Solicitors again.
Shocked and surprised!
I entered the HM & Co Solicitors on Lower Road in what can only be described as a highly agitated state. I had been told a variety of information from another company and had been told I needed services from a solicitor. After explaining my situation to the gentleman I now know as Mr Hakeem Ayantayo (solicitor) he advised me that I did not need his services and to offer them to me for monetary gain would be against good public practise. He offered me friendly advice and even briefly spoke on the phone to the other company who were trying to make things difficult for me. Ultimately the situation I was in was resolved due to Mr Ayantayo and his due diligence. Mr Ayantayo could have taken advantage of my ignorance and lack of lawful knowledge but instead showed me kindness and support all while not fleecing me! Which in this day and age is a rarity! My sincere thanks to Mr Ayantayo and his lovely secretary you have restored my faith in not only the local business community but people in general.
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