The United Kingdom is one of the top destinations for skilled professionals worldwide, and Nigerians are among the most active applicants. The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows Nigerians to live and work in the UK legally while providing a clear path to permanent residency. This visa replaced the previous Tier 2 (General) work visa and is designed for people whose skills are in demand in the UK.
This guide provides a step-by-step process for Nigerians applying for the Skilled Worker Visa, details eligibility, lists eligible jobs and salary ranges, outlines costs and timelines, and offers practical tips to increase your chances of approval.
What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is an immigration route that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UK if they have a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer. It is available to professionals in a range of occupations, including healthcare, education, IT, engineering, and more.
Key Features
- Valid for up to 5 years and renewable.
- Dependents (spouse and children) can accompany you.
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency after five years.
- Covers many occupations in demand, including health and care workers, IT specialists, engineers, and scientists.
- Requires a Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a UK Skilled Worker Visa from Nigeria, applicants must meet several requirements:
- Job Offer from a UK Sponsor
You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office. Only jobs listed on the eligible occupation list qualify. - Minimum Salary Threshold
The general minimum salary for most jobs is £26,200 per year (£12.75 per hour). Lower thresholds apply for health and education roles at £23,040 per year. - English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate your English ability through a recognized test or a degree taught in English. - Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship with a unique reference number. - Financial Requirement
You must show sufficient funds to support yourself for the first month in the UK, usually £1,270, unless your sponsor certifies maintenance. - Criminal Record Check and Health Requirements
Certain jobs require a criminal record check, and you must undergo a tuberculosis test if coming from Nigeria.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Find a UK Sponsor
- Identify licensed UK employers from the Home Office sponsor list.
- Apply to jobs matching your skills and qualifications.
- Confirm the employer can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Step 2: Receive Certificate of Sponsorship
- Once you have a job offer, your employer provides a CoS valid for three months.
- Record the unique reference number; it is essential for your visa application.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
Essential documents include:
- Valid Nigerian passport.
- CoS reference number.
- English language proof.
- Proof of salary and financial support.
- Tuberculosis test certificate.
- Criminal record certificate if required.
Step 4: Submit Online Application
- Complete the Skilled Worker visa form on the official UK government website.
- Pay the visa fee: £625 for up to three years or £1,235 for up to five years.
- Pay the healthcare surcharge: £624 per year.
Step 5: Biometric Appointment
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest visa application center in Nigeria.
- Submit fingerprints and photographs.
Step 6: Decision
- Processing usually takes three weeks for applications outside the UK.
- Decision is communicated via email.
Step 7: Travel to the UK
- Upon approval, you receive a vignette in your passport allowing travel to the UK.
- Collect your Biometric Residence Permit within ten days of arrival.
Eligible Jobs and Average Salary
The UK Skilled Worker Visa covers a wide range of occupations. Here are the main categories for Nigerians:
- Health and Care Workers
- Nurses: £25,900 – £38,000 per year
- Care workers and home carers: £23,040 – £36,000 per year
- Senior care workers: £25,000 – £38,500 per year
- Education Roles
- Secondary education teachers: £28,000 – £42,000 per year
- Primary teachers: £26,000 – £38,000 per year
- Science and Technology
- IT business analysts, architects, and programmers: £30,000 – £50,000 per year
- Web designers and developers: £28,000 – £45,000 per year
- Natural and social science professionals: £30,000 – £48,000 per year
- Engineering
- Civil engineers: £30,000 – £48,000 per year
- Mechanical engineers: £32,000 – £50,000 per year
- Electrical engineers: £30,000 – £48,000 per year
- Other Specialist Roles
- Senior care workers, medical radiographers, and health professionals: £25,000 – £45,000 per year
Costs Overview
- Visa fee: £625 – £1,235 depending on duration
- Healthcare surcharge: £624 per year
- English language test: £150 – £250
- Tuberculosis test: £50 – £100
- Document translation or certification: £50 – £200
Processing Timeline
- Job offer and CoS: 1–4 weeks
- Visa application submission: immediate after CoS
- Biometric appointment: within 1–2 weeks of submission
- Decision: 3 weeks for applications outside the UK
- Travel and BRP collection: within 10 days of arrival
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a valid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Choosing jobs not on the eligible occupation list
- Incomplete or incorrect document submission
- Ignoring English language requirements
- Using unofficial websites or agencies promising shortcuts
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Prepare a UK-style CV highlighting relevant skills and certifications
- Gain experience in high-demand sectors like healthcare, IT, or engineering
- Research employer requirements and interview expectations
- Apply early and confirm sponsor approval status
- Keep all documents organized for verification
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my spouse and children join me?
Yes, dependents can accompany you and have the right to live, study, and work in the UK.
Do I need IELTS?
Yes, unless you have a degree taught in English or meet other Home Office exceptions.
How long is the visa valid?
Up to five years, with the possibility to renew.
Is there a pathway to permanent residency?
Yes, after five years on the Skilled Worker Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
What happens if my job changes?
You need a new Certificate of Sponsorship if you change employers.
Can I work part-time?
Yes, but you must meet the minimum salary threshold for part-time work.
Conclusion
Applying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa from Nigeria is a structured process that requires careful preparation. By securing a job with a licensed sponsor, obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship, meeting English and salary requirements, and submitting accurate documents, Nigerians can successfully gain permission to work in the UK.
This visa offers stability, a path for dependents, and the opportunity to pursue permanent residency. Skilled Nigerians in healthcare, IT, engineering, and education continue to find significant opportunities, making the UK Skilled Worker Visa one of the most viable immigration routes for professionals seeking global experience. Proper preparation and attention to detail are essential for success.