If you’re looking to recruit international talent for your organisation, the Skilled Worker visa route is one of the best immigration routes available. This route relies on a points-based system and allows employers to hire foreign workers for a wide range of eligible occupations across the UK labour market. However, the skilled worker visa application process can be complex, and visa refusals can happen. Understanding the common reasons for rejection and how to address them is crucial to ensuring a successful outcome for your visa applicants.
Read our detailed guide on how to apply for the Skilled Worker visa to learn more.
Common Reasons for Skilled Worker Visa Refusal
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has strict eligibility requirements and immigration rules that must be met for a Skilled Worker visa application to succeed. Below are some of the most frequent grounds for refusal:
Failure to Meet the Minimum Salary Requirement
The standard minimum salary for Skilled Worker visa applicants as of February 2025 is £38,700 per year. Additionally, the applicant’s salary must meet or exceed the relevant going rate for their occupation code.
However, this general threshold is flexible under the tradeable points system, which allows lower thresholds in specific scenarios.
Incorrect or Insufficient Information
The UKVI requires visa applicants to provide accurate and complete information in their application form. Missing details, false representations, or insufficient documentary evidence can lead to visa rejection reasons. For example, failing to provide a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or not meeting the English language requirement (CEFR Level B1) can result in refusal.
Failure to Meet Skill Level Requirements
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, the applicant must meet the minimum skill level (RQF Level 3 or above) for the occupation code listed on the Certificate of Sponsorship assigned. If the UKVI believes the applicant lacks the necessary professional qualifications or educational qualifications, the skilled worker visa application may be refused.
Non-Compliance with Immigration Laws
Applicants with a criminal record, criminal history, or a track record of breach of immigration laws may face refusal. The UKVI may also reject applications if the applicant is deemed a persistent offender or if their presence is not conducive to the public good.
Insufficient Funds
Applicants must demonstrate they have at least £1,270 in cash funds for 28 consecutive days before submitting their application for entry clearance. Failure to meet this financial requirement or provide additional evidence of funds can lead to refusal.
Incorrect Document Format
The Home Office has strict guidelines on the correct format for supporting documents. If the applicant fails to submit documents in the required format or does not provide a valid Certificate or certified documents, the skilled worker visa refusal may occur.
Genuineness Concerns
The UKVI may refuse applications if they suspect the job vacancy is not a genuine vacancy or if the applicant is not a genuine candidate. This could include concerns about the weekly working hours, secondary employment, or the history of compliance of the licensed sponsor.
How to Avoid Skilled Worker Visa Refusal
To minimise the risk of visa rejection reasons, employers and applicants should take the following steps:
1. Ensure Eligibility and Suitability Requirements Are Met
Verify that the applicant meets all eligibility criteria, including the minimum salary requirement of £38,700, English language skills (CEFR Level B1), and validity requirements. Ensure the job code and occupation code align with the list of occupations eligible for the Skilled Worker visa.
2. Submit a Valid Application
A valid application must include:
- Payment of the application fee and Immigration Health Charge
- A correct application form completed in full
- A Certificate of Sponsorship reference issued within the last three months
- Proof of meeting the financial requirement
- A valid travel document or identity document
3. Provide Accurate and Complete Documentation
Double-check all supporting documents, including the criminal record certificate, educational qualifications, and professional qualifications. Ensure all documents meet the correct format and are certified where required.
4. Seek Expert Advice
Consulting immigration experts can help identify potential grounds for refusal and ensure compliance with immigration laws. Our team at Nation.better can guide you through the entire process, ensuring all Home Office requirements are met.
What to Do After a Skilled Worker Visa Refusal
If your candidate’s skilled worker visa application is refused, there are several options:
Apply for an Administrative Review
If you believe the refusal decision was due to a caseworker error, you can submit an administrative review application. This process allows the original decision maker to reassess the application.
Request a Judicial Review
In cases where the refusal appears unlawful, you can apply for a judicial review. This involves a court reviewing the UKVI’s decision.
Submit a Fresh Application
If the refusal was due to missing information or insufficient evidence, you can address the shortcomings and submit a new application. Ensure the current application meets all eligibility rules and suitability requirements.
Additional Considerations for Employers and Applicants
Sponsor Licence Application
Employers must hold a valid sponsor licence to hire foreign workers under the Skilled Worker visa route. The sponsor licence application process involves demonstrating compliance with sponsor duties and providing evidence of a genuine vacancy.
Immigration Skills Charge
Employers are required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge when sponsoring a Skilled Worker. The fee varies depending on the size of the organisation and the length of the visa.
Immigration Health Charge
Applicants must pay the Immigration Health Charge as part of their visa application. This allows them to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Secondary Employment
Skilled Workers are permitted to take on secondary employment under certain conditions. However, this must not interfere with their core duties or exceed the weekly working hours specified in their Certificate of Sponsorship.
Dependent Family Members
Skilled Workers can bring dependent family members to the UK, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. This includes proving they have sufficient funds to support their dependant family.
How Nation.better Can Help You
Navigating the Skilled Worker Visa process can be complex for both employers and candidates. Nation.better is here to make it easier for you. Whether you're an employer looking to sponsor international talent and secure a visa for your candidates or an individual seeking to work in the UK, our team of immigration experts will guide you through the entire process, ensuring all Home Office requirements are met.
By choosing Nation.better, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that we handle the complexities – allowing employers to attract top talent and helping candidates secure their future in the UK.
Get started today: fill in our form, and we’ll provide personalised support for a smooth and successful Skilled Worker Visa application.