1. What should I do if a job application asks, “Do you require sponsorship?” How should I respond?

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• If you are not already eligible to work in the country, you should answer truthfully that you require sponsorship. Employers need to know upfront if they will need to sponsor a visa for you, as this impacts their hiring process.

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2. How does DF collaborate with recruitment agencies versus working directly the end client?

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• Recruitment agencies typically handle the initial stages of the hiring process, such as sourcing, screening, and shortlisting candidates. For visa sponsorship, the final decision and legal responsibility often rest with the end client (employer), even if the recruitment agency facilitates the process. Where DF gets involved is when the end client does not have the facility to sponsor directly. Our Immigration and Consulting team can help facilitate the onboarding of international candidates for the end client.

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3. Who is responsible for covering the costs associated with sponsorship, including visa fees and the Immigration Skills Charge?

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• The employer is responsible for paying the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), visa fees, and other costs like the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Some employers may choose to pass on certain costs to the employee, but this depends on the employer's policy. It is at the discretion of the business whether they will pay for your Visa Application Fee, IHS and any dependent costs.

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4. What is the typical timeline for obtaining a Skilled Worker visa, from application submission to approval?

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• The process typically takes 3 to 8 weeks pending complexities. This includes the time for issuing the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), gathering documentation, and processing by the UK Home Office.

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5. What is the process and expected timeline for switching from one Skilled Worker visa to another when changing employers?

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• You can apply to switch to a new Skilled Worker visa if you are already in the UK. The new employer must issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship. The timeline is similar to a new application, typically around 5-8 weeks for a decision. You can start working for your new employer once the application is approved. If you are currently on a PSW Visa, you can continue to work under that RTW.

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6. At what stage of the interview process should you disclose that you need visa sponsorship?

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• It’s best to disclose your need for visa sponsorship early in the process, typically during the application or in the first interview. This allows the employer to assess their ability to sponsor you or find an alternative solution.

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7. Is it possible to switch from a Student Visa or Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa? What is the process?

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• Yes, it is possible to switch from a Student or Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa from within the UK. The employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, and you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements for the Skilled Worker visa, including a qualifying job offer.

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8. What types of jobs and roles are most likely to qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route?

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• Positions with specific or higher-level skills listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List. HERE

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9. What are the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker visa, and how do you determine if you qualify?

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• The basic requirements are:

  • A valid job offer from a licensed sponsor.

  • The job must be at an appropriate skill level (RQF level 3 or above).

  • You must meet the English language requirement.

  • Your salary must meet the minimum threshold for the job type

  • The role must be listed as eligible for sponsorship.​​

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10. Can my family members join me in the UK if I am granted a Skilled Worker visa? What is the process for them?

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• Yes, your family members (spouse/partner and children under 18) can apply to join you as "dependents." They will need to submit separate visa applications and meet financial maintenance requirements.

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11. How does the points-based immigration system work for a Skilled Worker visa?

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• The Skilled Worker visa operates on a points-based system. You need at least 70 points to qualify, which are earned by meeting specific criteria such as having a job offer (20 points), a role at an appropriate skill level (20 points), and meeting the English language requirement (10 points). Additional points come from salary level, shortage occupation roles, and educational qualifications.

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12. How does the Skilled Worker visa impact my path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventual citizenship in the UK?

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• After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to apply for ILR. Once you have ILR, you can apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for at least 12 months, subject to meeting residency and good character requirements.

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13. What are the conditions under which a Skilled Worker visa can be extended or renewed?

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• You can extend your Skilled Worker visa if you still have a job with the same employer or a new employer willing to sponsor you. The job must meet the same salary and skill level requirements, and you’ll need to reapply before your current visa expires. Extensions are usually granted for another 2 to 5 years.

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