Skilled Worker visa: inside versus outside the UK
The application pathway, standard fee, expected decision time and switching restrictions differ according to where the applicant applies.
Reviewed 11 August 2026 · Verify current requirements on GOV.UK before applying
Applying from outside the UK
- Apply online after the approved employer issues the Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Standard fee: £819 up to 3 years or £1,618 for more than 3 years; lower Salary List fees can apply.
- Identity is normally proved with the UK Immigration: ID Check app or at a visa application centre, as instructed.
- GOV.UK says a decision is usually made within 3 weeks after identity and documents are provided.
- Certain occupations can require a criminal-record certificate, and TB rules may apply.
Applying from inside the UK
- The application may be an extension, a permitted switch or an update following a job or employer change.
- Standard fee: £943 up to 3 years or £1,865 for more than 3 years; lower Salary List fees can apply.
- A visitor, short-term student, seasonal worker and several other categories cannot switch inside the UK.
- Apply before current permission expires and do not travel outside the Common Travel Area while a switching application is pending.
- GOV.UK says an inside-UK decision is usually made within 8 weeks after identity and documents are provided.
Questions to check before starting
- Is the person applying for entry, extension, switching or a job/employer update?
- What current UK permission do they hold and when does it expire?
- Has the employer issued the correct Certificate of Sponsorship?
- Does the current route appear on GOV.UK’s list of categories that cannot switch?
- Will dependants need separate extension or switching applications?
PRIMARY SOURCES
Check the current GOV.UK rules
The official application and GOV.UK determine the final requirements and charges.