Country guide
Migrate to the United Kingdom
Most people come on a Skilled Worker visa with a job from a licensed sponsor. Doctors and nurses get a cheaper, faster route.
GBP 41,700
Skilled Worker minimum salary
Why the UK?
- No language barrier if you speak English
- NHS healthcare, free at the point of use
- 28 days' paid holiday by law
- Settlement (ILR) after 5 years, or 3 on Global Talent
- Jobs in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and beyond
- World-class universities and training
Key facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Population | 68.3 million (2025) |
| Official language | English |
| Currency | Pound sterling (GBP) |
| National Living Wage (21+) | GBP 12.71 / hour (from April 2026) |
| Healthcare | Universal public (NHS) |
| Main routes | Skilled Worker, Health and Care, Global Talent, Scale-up |
Visa routes
Skilled Worker visa
The main work visa. You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor, an eligible role and a salary of at least GBP 41,700 (or the going rate, if higher). Up to 5 years, then settlement.
Health and Care Worker visa
For doctors, nurses and health professionals. Salary from GBP 25,000 (or the going rate), lower fees and no Immigration Health Surcharge. Care worker roles closed to new applicants from abroad on 22 July 2025.
Global Talent visa
For leaders and rising talent in research, academia, digital technology and the arts. No job offer needed, but an approved UK body must endorse you. Settlement in 3-5 years.
Scale-up visa
For jobs at fast-growing UK firms paying at least GBP 39,100. After 6 months you can change jobs without a new sponsor.
Cost of living
Typical monthly costs in London, Manchester and Birmingham.
| Expense | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| 1-bed rent (city centre) | GBP 1,200 to 2,200 / month |
| Groceries (one person) | GBP 200 to 350 / month |
| Travelcard (London zones 1-3) | GBP 160 to 200 / month |
| Internet (60 Mbps+) | GBP 25 to 45 / month |
| Council tax (Band D average) | GBP 150 to 200 / month |
Jobs in demand
- Registered nurses
- Software developers & data engineers
- Civil & structural engineers
- Secondary teachers (maths, science)
- Doctors (GPs & hospital)
- Quantity surveyors & construction managers
- Biomedical scientists
FAQs
How long does a Skilled Worker visa take?
Usually 3-8 weeks from outside the UK. Priority service cuts this to 5 working days in many countries. Super-priority gives a decision in 1-2 working days, for an extra fee.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Most applicants pay GBP 1,035 a year for NHS access, upfront for the whole visa. Health and Care Worker visa holders don't pay it.
Can I settle permanently in the UK?
Yes. After 5 years on a Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker or Scale-up visa you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Global Talent holders can apply after 3 years.
Do I need an English test for the UK?
Usually. Since 8 January 2026, new Skilled Worker applicants need English at CEFR B2, shown by an approved test or an English-taught degree. Nationals of majority English-speaking countries, such as the USA, Canada and Australia, are exempt.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change often. Always confirm the current requirements on the official government website for your destination. How we research & source our guides.
What is changing in the UK, and when
- Deadline
Last day to apply for a 2-year UK Graduate visa
Graduate visas applied for on or after 1 January 2027 last 18 months instead of 2 years (PhD graduates still get 3 years). Source (GOV.UK)
Could the UK work for you?
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