Apply for UK Work Visa from India

Surya Rathee
[Published 28 Nov, 2024 | 03:43 PM]
About Author - 9 min read
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Looking to work abroad?

With over 800,000+ job vacancies across the country, Indian professionals looking to work abroad from India have a golden opportunity to earn 3-4 times their current salaries in the United Kingdom (UK).

Indian immigrants form one of the largest non-European communities in the UK. As of 2024, over 1.9 million Indians are living in the UK. The majority of these individuals migrate to the UK for employment opportunities, drawn by the nation's high standard of living and global career prospects. The robust economy, increasing demand for skilled workers, and generous employment benefits, such as healthcare, pension schemes, and paid leaves, make it a highly attractive destination for Indians.

Here’ how you can apply for a UK Work Visa from India in 2024-25.

Check Eligibility for UK Work Visa

Why work in the UK?

• 800,000+ job vacancies.
• Earn 30-40 Lakh per year.
• 28 paid leaves a year.
• Low unemployment rate.
• Employment benefits including healthcare.
• Excellent work-life benefits.

Types of Work Visa in the UK

Here’s an overview of the different types of UK Work Visas, tailored to suit various skill levels, industries, and needs:

• Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with job offers in eligible occupations like healthcare, IT, or engineering. Sponsorship from a UK employer is mandatory.

• Health and Care Worker Visa: Specifically for medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and social care workers. It offers reduced visa fees and faster processing.

• Global Talent Visa: For exceptional talents in fields like science, humanities, digital technology, or the arts. No job offer is required if endorsed by a recognized body.

• Seasonal Worker Visa: Designed for temporary work in the agricultural sector. Valid for up to 6 months.

• Creative Worker Visa: Catered to those in creative fields such as acting, music, or filmmaking. Requires sponsorship from an approved employer.

• Graduate Visa: For international students who have completed eligible courses in the UK. It allows staying and working for 2–3 years.

• High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa: For graduates of top global universities, allowing work or self-employment without sponsorship.

Other Popular UK Work Visas

• India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
• Innovator Founder Visa
• UK Expansion Worker Visa
• Government Authorised Exchange Visa

Each visa type has its own requirements and benefits, tailored to suit different goals for working in the UK.

UK Work Visa eligibility for Indians

The eligibility criteria for UK Work Visas for Indians depend on the specific visa type, but here are the common requirements applicable across most categories:

• Job Offer: A confirmed job offer from a UK-based employer approved by the Home Office (sponsorship is usually required).

• Skill Level: The job must meet the skill level criteria, which varies by visa type (e.g., RQF Level 3 for Skilled Worker Visa).

• Salary Threshold: Most visas require a minimum salary of £38,700 per year. Some roles, like healthcare, have lower thresholds. These figures are frequently updated.

• English Language Proficiency: Proof of English language skills through tests like IELTS (minimum B1 level) or equivalent qualifications.

• Qualifications: Certain visas, like the Global Talent Visa or High Potential Individual Visa, require specific academic or professional qualifications.

• Financial Requirements: Proof of funds to support yourself initially (usually £1,270 unless exempt).

• Valid Passport: A passport valid for the visa duration and travel.

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): For employer-sponsored visas, your employer provides this document.

Some visas, like the Graduate Visa, do not require a job offer but require graduation from a UK university. Whereas, for the Global Talent Visa, endorsement by a recognized body is needed.

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Documents required for a UK Work Visa from India

To apply for a UK Work Visa from India, you must submit the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least one blank page.
• A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by your UK employer.
• Proof of English proficiency test results like IELTS or equivalent.
• Job offer details with information about the job, including salary and skill level.
• Proof of funds in the form of bank statements showing at least £1,270 available.
• TB test certificate if you’re applying from India or another listed country.
• Educational and professional qualifications
• Police clearance certificate to confirm a clean criminal record.
• Proof of relationship with dependents (spouse/children (if applicable).
• Health and care surcharge payment receipt.
• Evidence of recognized endorsement (if applicable).

Make sure your documents are translated into English (if required) and meet the guidelines specified by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

How to apply for a Work Visa in the UK from India?

Here is a step-by-step guide to the UK Work Visa application process from India:

STEP 1: Choose the Right Visa Type: Identify the UK work visa that suits your situation, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa, or Global Talent Visa. Check the specific eligibility requirements for your visa type, including job offer, salary threshold, English language proficiency, and financial requirements.

STEP 2: Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Obtain a CoS from your UK employer. This document confirms your job offer and sponsorship. Collect all other mandatory documents, including your passport, proof of English proficiency, bank statements, and TB test certificate.

STEP 3: Complete the Online Application and Pay Fees: Visit the UK government visa portal and complete the application form for your chosen work visa. Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

STEP 4: Book a Biometrics Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a UK visa application centre in India to provide your fingerprints, photographs, and supporting documents. Attend your appointment on the scheduled date and submit your application.

STEP 5: Wait for Processing: Visa processing typically takes 3–8 weeks. You can track your application online. If approved, collect your visa and start planning your travel to the UK. The process to apply for a UK Work Visa from India can sometimes be challenging. Seek job assistance from immigration consultants at Nationwide Visas if you’re having trouble.

UK Work Visa application fees from India

NOTE: The UK Work Visa application fee from India is non-refundable. The application fee and currency exchange rates in Indian rupees are both subject to change. Please refer to the UKVI or talk to an immigration consultant at Nationwide Visas for updated charges.

UK Work Visa processing time from India

According to the latest UK Visa processing time to apply for a UK Work Visa from India is 3 weeks if you are outside the UK and 8 weeks if you are applying from within the UK. You may be able to pay to get super-priority faster service.

You can apply for this visa up to 3 months before you are due to start to work in the UK. The date of your joining is listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

How can we help?

Get in touch with Nationwide Visas, one of the best UK Immigration Consultants in India. The team will evaluate your case, offering the best solutions to immigrate to UK from India. Whether you need help with your application, documentation, finding jobs, or else, we’ve got you covered!

Call us at +91 92 92 92 92 81 or email us at info@nationwidevisas.com.

Read more:- How to get a job in the UK?