What are the requirements to apply for a job in UK?
Documents you’ll need to apply
- your certificate of sponsorship reference number – your employer will give you this.
- proof of your knowledge of English.
- a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality.
- your job title and annual salary.
- your job’s occupation code.
How to apply for a job in the UK from Pakistan?
Pakistani citizens who want to enter the UK from Pakistan and work for their employers must complete their UK Skilled Worker visa application online on the Home Office website. Once your employer issues you a job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship, you can kickstart your application with other supporting documents.
The job criteria in the UK vary depending on the industry, role, and level of expertise required, but some common factors are universally valued. Employers often look for candidates with relevant qualifications, such as degrees, diplomas, or certifications aligned with the role. Practical experience, either through prior work, internships, or apprenticeships, is highly desirable, especially in technical or specialized fields.
Soft skills like communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving are critical across sectors. Additionally, proficiency in English is essential for most roles, though some industries may also require knowledge of other languages. For international applicants, meeting visa or work permit requirements, as well as adhering to any professional licensing standards (e.g., for doctors, engineers, or lawyers), is vital. A tailored CV, a strong cover letter, and evidence of cultural fit and motivation can also make a significant difference in the hiring process.
How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
Pakistani citizens who want to enter the UK from Pakistan and work for their employers must complete their UK Skilled Worker visa application online on the Home Office website. Once your employer issues you a job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship, you can kickstart your application with other supporting documents.
Below are the steps you must take to apply for a Skilled Worker visa:
- Know if you qualify for a Skilled Worker visa
- Obtain a job offer from a UKVI-approved employer
- Get a Certificate of Sponsorship from the employer
- Gather the required documents to prove you are eligible for a Skilled Worker visa
- Apply for the visa online from Pakistan after completing the application form
- Provide your biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) or scan your identity document with the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app to prove your identity
- Upload any other supporting documents as may be required
- Pay your application fee, health surcharge, and biometric fee
If need be, you can save your progress after completing a portion of the application if necessary, so you can finish it later. The application process for a Skilled Worker visa can be overwhelming as you must meet several eligibility criteria and provide various documents to support your application.
We recommend you seek expert guidance from our immigration lawyers at Total Law to help make the application process easier for you. They already know how to assist you to obtain a positive decision on your application, call us today on +44 (0)203 811 0737 or message us online for immediate assistance.
Processing Time and Cost for Skilled Worker Visa
Pakistani citizens applying for a Skilled Worker visa from Pakistan should expect a decision on their application within 3 weeks. However, some factors may delay the processing time of your application, such as the volume of applications, previous immigration violations, additional document requests, etc.
What You Can and Cannot Do
When you obtain the Skilled Work visa UK, you will be permitted to engage in some activities. They include:
- Sponsor your dependent (partner and children) to come and join you in the UK
- Do an eligible job
- Study
- Do voluntary work
- Travel overseas and return to the UK
- Take up a second job (depending on the situation)
- Seek to obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK after staying in the country for up to 5 years and meeting other eligibility requirements
How Much it Costs
You are required to have the following funds to secure your Skilled Worker visa:
- Have at least £1,270 to cater for your needs in the UK
- Pay £1,420 per applicant for more than 3 years stay
- Pay £719 per applicant for up to 3 years stay
If you want to extend your visa, switch or update it, you will:
- Pay £1,500 per applicant to stay for more than 3 years
- Pay £827 per applicant for up to 3 years stay
You are not permitted to:
- Switch jobs or employers unless you have applied to update your visa
- Seek the state pension or public funds.
In conclusion, securing a job in the UK requires meeting role-specific qualifications, demonstrating relevant skills and experience, and aligning with the employer’s expectations. With a well-prepared application and a focus on adaptability and professionalism, candidates can navigate the diverse opportunities available in the UK job market.