The UK Home Office has set out detailed eligibility requirements for the Skilled Worker visa, which replaced the Tier 2 General work visa. Foreign nationals, including Nigerians, must satisfy these conditions to qualify for the visa, which can last up to five years and may lead to permanent settlement after five years of continuous residence.
Minimum Salary and Employment Conditions
Applicants must earn at least £41,700 per year or the going rate for their occupation, whichever is higher. Lower salary thresholds apply for some healthcare workers, graduates, younger applicants, and certain PhD holders. The job must be in an eligible occupation and offered by a UK employer licensed by the Home Office to sponsor foreign workers. The employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) containing details of the job.
English Language and Documentation
Applicants must prove English language ability through approved tests or qualifications taught in English. They must hold a valid passport or other accepted identity document. Most applicants must show at least £1,270 in available funds for self-support, unless the employer covers those costs. Supporting a partner requires showing £285, £315 for one child, and £200 for each additional child.
Visa Fees and Application Process
Applicants must pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of stay. They must submit supporting documents, including the Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, salary details, occupation code, and employer information. Additional documents such as tuberculosis test results, criminal record certificates, or ATAS certificates may be required. Applications must be submitted within three months of receiving the Certificate of Sponsorship.
Approval Not Guaranteed
The UK government stressed that meeting eligibility requirements does not automatically guarantee visa approval. Immigration officials may request further documents or information before making a final decision. The Home Office advises applicants to complete identity verification and provide all required documents.
List of Approved Sponsors
According to a report by Legit.ng, the UK Home Office has expanded its official list of employers authorised to recruit overseas talent, with 142,459 licensed sponsor organisations as of July 17, 2026. The register covers employers approved to issue Certificates of Sponsorship under both the Skilled Worker and Temporary Worker routes.
