UK Work Visa: Your Guide to Applying from India

Are you considering working in the UK (United Kingdom)  and want to know how to apply for a UK work visa from India? Don't worry; we've got you covered! In this guide, we'll walk you through the process step by step, addressing all your questions and providing you with clear solutions.

Table of Contents:

1. UK Work Visa
2. Types of Work Visas UK
3. How to Apply for a UK Work Visa
4. Jobs in demand in the UK
5. Salaries in the UK for different professions

1. What is a UK Work Visa?

A UK work visa allows any skilled foreign worker to work and live in the United Kingdom for a specific period, and in some cases, it can be renewed indefinitely. 

2. Types of UK Work Visas:

There are many types of UK Work Visas and each work visa is tailored to a specific occupation or circumstances with different eligibility requirements.

2.1  UK Skilled Worker Visa:

The UK Skilled Worker visa allows you to work in an eligible job for a UK-approved employer. To apply, you must have a confirmed job offer, work for a UK Home Office-approved employer, possess a Certificate of Sponsorship, and meet the minimum salary requirements. Your occupation must be on the eligible occupations list, and your English language proficiency must be at least B1.

2.2 UK Start-Up Visa:

Entrepreneurs can open a new business in the United Kingdom with a Start-Up visa. You need to be endorsed by a United Kingdom endorsing body, be 18 or older, have a B2 level of English, and maintain £945 in your bank account for 90 consecutive days.

2.3  UK Graduate Work Visa:

Graduates can work, switch jobs, and develop their careers in the United Kingdom for two years after completing a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree, or eligible courses. The university must confirm your successful course completion.

2.4. UK Domestic Worker Visa:

You can work in a private household as a domestic worker, such as a nanny or cook. You need to be over 19, live outside the United Kingdom, work in the same household for at least 12 months, and plan to leave the United Kingdom after six months.

2.5. High Potential Individual Visa:

Graduates from top global universities can work in the united kingdom for two years without needing a job offer. To be eligible, you must meet the below following requirements:

• Be endorsed by an eligible university.

• Be 18 years of age or older.

• Have a B1 level of English proficiency.

• Have sufficient funds to cover your expenses.

2.6. International Sportsperson Visa:

Sportspeople or Qualified coaches can work in the United Kingdom to develop their sport at the highest level. Your sport's governing body must endorse your application. Provide proof of English skills and sufficient funds.

2.7. Minister of Religion Visa:

Religious ministers or missionaries can work in the United Kingdom. You need to be over 18, have a certificate of sponsorship, and demonstrate English proficiency and financial means.

2.8. Youth Mobility Scheme:

Young adults aged 18-30 from specific countries can work in the United Kingdom (UK)  for up to two years. Eligible countries include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and more.

2.9.    6 Months Short Term UK Visa:

This visa allows you to stay and work in the United Kingdom for up to 6 months. It is suitable for short-term work assignments, business trips, or tourism. Multiple entries are allowed during your visa validity period.

2.10.  2 years Long Term UK Visa:

The 2-year long-term visa permits you to stay in the United Kingdom for 6 months at a time. It is ideal for individuals with long-term projects, such as consulting assignments or extended business visits. Multiple entries are allowed within the 2-year validity.

2.11.    5 years Long Term UK Visa:

With this visa, you can visit the United Kingdom for up to 6 months at a time over 5 years. It is suitable for frequent business travellers who need flexibility in their travel plans. Multiple entries are permitted during the 5 years.

2.12.    10 Years Long Term UK Visa:

The 10-year long-term visa allows you to visit the United Kingdom for up to 6 months at a time for 10 years. It is beneficial for those who frequently travel for business or leisure. Multiple entries are allowed within the 10-year validity.

2.13.  Tier 2 (General) Visa:

This visa is for skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who have a job offer from a UK employer. A Certificate of Sponsorship is required, and the work must be related to the sponsor organization.

 

2.14. Tier 1 (General) Visa:

This visa is for individuals with leave to remain in the United Kingdom, the Tier 1 (General) visa allows them to switch to this category. It is not available for those outside the United Kingdom or for switching from other immigration categories.

2.15. Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa:

This visa is for For internationally recognized leaders in various fields, the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa is suitable. It is also available for individuals from outside the EEA and Switzerland.

2.16. Representative of an Overseas Business Visa:

This visa is for those representing an overseas company planning to establish a branch or subsidiary in the United Kingdom. It also applies to employees of overseas media organizations on a long-term assignment.

2.17. Domestic Workers in a Private Household Visa:

Domestic workers can apply for this visa to accompany their employer to the United Kingdom. The worker must have been working for the same company for a minimum of one year.

It is essential to meet the specific eligibility criteria and requirements for each visa type to have a successful application.

3. How to Apply for a UK Work Visa from India?

8 steps to apply for a UK work visa

Step 1: Find a Job and Sponsor

First, secure a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is eligible to sponsor non-EEA workers. The employer will need to apply for a sponsorship license on your behalf.

Step 2: Obtain a CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship)

Once your employer has a sponsorship license, they will provide you with a CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship). You will need this document to proceed with your visa application.

Step 3: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for the specific work visa you are applying for. These criteria may include qualifications, English language skills, financial requirements, and other specific conditions.

Step 4: Complete the Points-Based Assessment

For most UK work visas, you will need to go through a UK points-based assessment system. Points are awarded based on factors such as qualifications, future earnings, sponsorship, and English language proficiency.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary documents, including your CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship), proof of qualifications, English language test results, financial documents, and travel history.

Step 6: Apply Online

Submit your visa application online through the UK government's official website. Pay the required visa fees as per the visa type and duration.

Step 7: Attend a Biometric Appointment

Once you have submitted your application, you will need to attend a biometric appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre in India. Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken during this appointment.

Step 8: Wait for the Decision

After completing the biometric appointment, wait for the UK Visa and Immigration to process your application. The processing time is usually three weeks if you are outside the UK and eight weeks if you are inside the UK.

4. What are the jobs that are in demand in the UK?

List of In-Demand Jobs in the UK:

 

5. What are the average salaries for different occupations in the UK? 

Check out the average salaries in Indian rupees for different occupations in the UK.

 

Please note that the salary ranges mentioned above are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and company size. The UK job market is dynamic, and demand for certain professions and salaries may change over time. It's always best to research current job trends and salary data for the most accurate information.

6. Common FAQs:

Is IELTS required for a UK work visa from India?

  Answer: Yes, an IELTS exam is required for most UK work visas to prove your English language proficiency.

Check out the web story to know about IELTS Speaking tips and IELTS Writing Tips

Can I apply for a UK work visa without a job offer?

  Answer: No, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer to apply for a work visa.

 How long can I stay after my UK work visa has expired?

 Answer: You must leave the UK before your visa expires. You have 30 days to leave the country voluntarily after the visa expiration date.

Can I bring my family members with a work visa to the UK?

 Answer: Yes, in most cases, you can bring your family members with you on a dependent visa.

In Conclusion:

Applying for a UK work visa from India involves several steps, from finding a job and securing a sponsor to completing the application and attending a biometric appointment. Ensure to meet all the eligibility requirements and have all the necessary documents ready. If you follow the process diligently, you can realize your dream of working in the UK. Good luck with your visa application!