How to get a work permit for London, UK jobs?

To work legally in London (United Kingdom), you must apply for a UK work visa under the points-based immigration system. A work permit is granted in the form of a Skilled Worker visa or other relevant visa types, depending on your job, skills, and employer. Below is a complete guide to obtaining a work permit to work in London.

Step-by-Step Guide to Get a UK Work Permit (Skilled Worker Visa):

1. Get a Job Offer from a UK Licensed Sponsor

• You must first receive a formal job offer from a UK employer who is licensed to sponsor foreign workers.

• The employer must be listed in the UK Home Office’s Register of Sponsors.

2. Ensure the Job is Eligible

• The job must be on the UK’s list of eligible occupations and meet the minimum salary requirements.

• Most roles require a salary of at least £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, but some shortage occupations or fresh graduates may have lower thresholds.

3. Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

• Your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a digital document containing your job details and reference number needed for your visa application.

4. Check Your Eligibility

To apply for a UK work visa, you must:

• Have a confirmed job offer and CoS

• Meet the salary and skill requirements

• Prove English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)

• Have enough money to support yourself when you arrive (at least £1,270 in savings, unless employer covers it)

5. Apply for the UK Skilled Worker Visa Online

• You can apply online through the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.

• You will need to submit:

o Valid passport

o Certificate of Sponsorship

o Proof of English language

o Tuberculosis test result (if from a listed country)

o Financial proof

o Visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge

6. Pay Visa Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge

• Visa fee: £610 to £1,408, depending on job duration

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year

7. Attend Biometric Appointment

• Schedule an appointment at a visa application center to provide fingerprints and a photo.

8. Wait for a Decision

• Most applications are processed within 3 to 8 weeks.

• If approved, you’ll receive a visa vignette in your passport and a decision letter.

9. Travel to London and Collect Your BRP

• After arrival in the UK, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) at the post office within 10 days.

• You can now live and work legally in London.

Alternative Work Visa Routes:

• Health and Care Worker Visa – For doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff (faster and cheaper process)

• Global Talent Visa – For highly skilled individuals in science, tech, arts

• Graduate Visa – For international students who studied in the UK

• Temporary Work Visa – For seasonal or short-term employment

Important Notes:

• You cannot work in London without a valid visa.

• Tourist or visitor visas do not allow you to take up employment.

• Employers who are not licensed sponsors cannot hire foreign workers.

Summary:

• To work in London, you need a job offer from a UK licensed sponsor.

• Your job must meet salary and skill criteria.

• Apply for a Skilled Worker visa through the UK government website.

• Submit all documents, attend biometrics, and wait for approval.

• After arriving in the UK, collect your residence permit and start working legally.