UK Immigration Articles and Resources

Understanding Your Rights and Conditions on a UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2025

Written by Shehzad Babar | Apr 28, 2025 5:27:38 PM

Employment with Your Main Sponsor 

Upon receiving a Skilled Worker visa, you are required to work for your sponsoring employer as specified in the terms of your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the entire duration of your visa. This includes adhering to the designated role, occupation code, and salary.​

 

Commencement of Employment

In accordance with the relevant guidance, you must begin your sponsored employment no later than 28 days after the latest of:​

  • The start date on your CoS (considering any reported changes).

  • The "valid from" date on your entry clearance vignette.

  • The date you are notified of your grant of entry clearance or permission to stay.​

Delays beyond this period must be reported via the Sponsorship Management System (SMS), providing reasons for the delay. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will assess the validity of the reasons, and unacceptable delays may lead to sponsorship withdrawal.​

 

Changing Jobs or Sponsor

If you intend to change your job to a different occupation code or switch sponsor, you must apply to update your Skilled Worker visa and pay the associated fees. This ensures your new employment aligns with visa requirements.​