United Kingdom Work Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders
Fee Breakdown
Key Requirements
- ✓ Job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid UKVI sponsor licence
- ✓ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number from the sponsoring employer
- ✓ Job must be at RQF level 3 or above and on the eligible occupations list
- ✓ Minimum salary threshold of GBP 38,700 per year or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher (some shortage occupations have different thresholds)
- ✓ English language proficiency at B1 level or above
- ✓ Valid Pakistani passport
- ✓ TB test certificate from an approved clinic in Pakistan
- ✓ Proof of qualifications relevant to the sponsored role
Documents Required
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Secure a job offer from a UK employer with a valid UKVI sponsor licence and obtain your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
Step 2: Check that your job role and salary meet the Skilled Worker Visa requirements.
Step 3: Complete your TB test at an approved clinic in Pakistan.
Step 4: Apply online at gov.uk and complete the Skilled Worker Visa application form.
Step 5: Pay the visa fee of GBP 490 and the Immigration Health Surcharge of GBP 1,035 per year.
Step 6: Book and attend a biometric appointment at VFS Global in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad.
Step 7: Submit all supporting documents including CoS details, qualifications, and TB test certificate.
Step 8: Await the decision, which is typically made within 3 weeks for standard applications.
Step 9: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a designated UK post office upon arrival.
⚠️ Important Notes
The UK Skilled Worker Visa replaced the Tier 2 General visa. The salary threshold was significantly increased in 2024 to GBP 38,700 per year. Pakistani professionals in healthcare, IT, engineering, and finance are among the most common applicants. The UK operates a points-based immigration system and all work visa applications require a valid sponsor with a UKVI sponsor licence. Applicants should plan for the Immigration Health Surcharge cost which is in addition to the visa fee.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✗ No valid Certificate of Sponsorship or sponsor licence revoked
- ✗ Salary below the required threshold for the occupation
- ✗ English language requirement not met
- ✗ TB test not completed or missing certificate
- ✗ Fraudulent documents or misrepresentation
- ✗ Criminal history or security concerns
- ✗ Job role not eligible under the Skilled Worker route
Frequently Asked Questions
As of 2024, the general minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa is GBP 38,700 per year, or the going rate for your specific occupation code, whichever is higher. Some roles on the immigration salary list may have lower thresholds.
Yes, if you are already in the UK on another visa category such as a Student Visa, you may be eligible to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from inside the UK without needing to return to Pakistan, provided you meet all requirements.
Yes, your spouse or partner and dependent children under 18 can apply as your dependants. They will have the right to work in the UK while on a dependant visa.
Yes. After living and working in the UK for 5 continuous years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is the UK equivalent of permanent residency.
Workers on a Skilled Worker Visa must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of GBP 1,035 per year as part of the visa application. This grants access to the UK National Health Service.
Ready to Apply?
Apply through the official portal. Always use official government/embassy websites.
Apply for United Kingdom Work Visa →