Can I Study on a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?

The Skilled Worker visa in the UK is primarily designed for individuals who have a job offer from a licensed skilled worker list of sponsors. While it focuses on employment, many visa holders wonder if they can also pursue studies during their stay. If you’re wondering, can I study on a work visa in the UK? The answer is yes, as a Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2) permits study without needing a separate student visa, so long as the study does not interfere with your primary job responsibilities. This applies equally to both full-time and part-time courses in the UK. Furthermore, dependents of Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) visa holders are also allowed to study in the UK.

What is the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?

The Skilled Worker visa allows non-UK nationals to live and work in the UK, provided they have a valid job offer in the shortage occupation list of UK from an employer approved by the Home Office. This visa replaces the old Tier 2 (General) work visa and is available to individuals employed in jobs that meet the required skill and salary levels. The visa can last for up to five years, after which the holder may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain.

Skilled Worker Visa UK Benefits

The Skilled Worker visa comes with several benefits beyond employment. These include:

• Ability to Study: You can pursue part-time or full-time studies, provided it doesn’t interfere with your sponsored job.
• Family Accompaniment: You can bring your dependents (spouse and children) to live in the UK with you.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After five years, visa holders may apply for indefinite leave to remain, allowing permanent residency in the UK.
• Additional Employment: You can take on supplementary jobs outside your main sponsored role in certain circumstances, such as part-time voluntary work or even self-employment.

How to Get a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK

So, what is UK skilled worker visa requirements? To qualify for UK Skilled Worker visa, you need to:

1. Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship, detailing the job role and salary.
3. Eligibility Criteria: The job must be on the list of eligible occupations, and you must meet the minimum salary requirements, which vary depending on the role, but generally it is £38,700 per annum.
4. English Proficiency: You’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in English (B1 level).
5. Financial Requirements: You must show that you can support yourself financially, with at least £1,270 in savings unless your employer covers this​.

UK Skilled Worker Visa: Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible for the Skilled Worker visa, the following requirements must be met:

• Job in shortage occupation list: The job must be at RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-level) or above.
• Minimum Salary: You need to earn at least £38,700 annually.
• Certificate of Sponsorship: Provided by an employer with a valid sponsorship license in the UK.

Can I Study Part-Time on a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?

Yes, you can study part-time while holding a Skilled Worker visa, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your primary employment. Your job remains the priority, and your studies must fit around your work schedule. You don’t need special permission to study, although it’s advisable to inform your employer​.

Can I Study Full-Time on a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?

Full-time study in the UK is also permitted under a Skilled Worker visa, but it must not conflict with the job you are sponsored for. The studies should be completed within the time frame of your visa, and you may need to extend or switch visa categories if your course continues beyond the expiration of your Skilled Worker visa​.

If you are studying a sensitive subject like science or technology, you may also need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

Skilled Worker Dependent Visa in the UK

Dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can also join them in the UK. A dependent is typically defined as a spouse, partner, or children under the age of 18. Dependents can live in the UK for the same duration as the primary visa holder and may also be eligible to work or study during their stay​.

Skilled Worker Dependent Visa Eligibility Criteria

The following family members are typically eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa:

1. Spouse or Partner: A legal spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner (in a relationship similar to marriage for at least two years).
2. Children: Dependent children under the age of 18 can also apply. Children over 18 can apply if they are already in the UK as dependents and still reliant on the primary visa holder.

UK Skilled Worker Dependent Visa Requirements

For dependents to qualify for the UK Skilled Worker Dependent Visa, they must meet several criteria:

• Proof of Relationship: Applicants must provide evidence proving their relationship to the primary visa holder (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates for children).
• Maintenance Funds: Dependents must show they have enough funds to support themselves. As of now, they need to show at least £285 for the partner, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each additional child unless the primary visa holder’s employer can certify this maintenance.
• Visa Validity: Dependents’ visas will generally be issued for the same length of time as the primary visa holder’s Skilled Worker visa.

Application Process of UK Dependents of Tier-2 Visa

Dependents can apply either from inside or outside the UK. The process involves:

• Online Application: Completing the application form for dependents.
  Biometric Information: Providing fingerprints and a photograph.
• Documentation: Providing required documents such as proof of relationship, financial evidence, and identity verification.

What Can Dependents Do on Skilled Worker Visa?

1. Work: Dependents are allowed to work in the UK without restrictions on the number of hours or the type of job, with the exception of professional sports roles.
2. Study: Dependents can enroll in both part-time and full-time courses, from vocational training to university degrees​.

Can You Study on a Dependent Visa?

Yes, dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can study in the UK without any restrictions. This includes both part-time and full-time study options, ranging from vocational courses to university degrees. The UK’s dependent visa provides flexibility for the spouse or partner to pursue their academic or professional development.

How Many Hours Can a Dependent Work in the UK?

Dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders are permitted to work without any restrictions on the number of hours they can work. This makes it easier for the dependent spouse or partner to find full-time employment while in the UK

Conclusion

To wrap it up, the answer to the question “can you study on a skilled worker visa in the UK” is yes, the Skilled Worker visa offers significant flexibility for both the visa holder and their dependents, allowing them to study part-time or full-time while working in the UK. Whether you’re the primary visa holder or a dependent, you can enjoy the opportunity to further your education alongside your career or personal pursuits. This makes the Skilled Worker visa a versatile option for those looking to live, work, and study in the UK.

For anyone considering applying for a Skilled Worker visa or wanting more information about studying on this visa type, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest immigration rules and guidelines, as these are subject to change. Always consult official sources or seek expert legal advice for your specific situation.