Skilled Worker Visa for United Kingdom — Guide for Algerian Applicants
The UK Skilled Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2) lets you work in the UK with a licensed sponsor employer. You need a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence, and the job must meet the minimum salary threshold (usually £38,700/year, lower for some shortage occupations).
Fees: £719-£1,420 visa + £1,035/year healthcare surcharge
Processing time: 3-8 weeks
Visa center in Algeria: VFS Global (Algiers, Oran)
Step-by-step process
Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor
Find a UK employer with a sponsor licence who is willing to hire you. They'll issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Use the UK government's sponsor register to check if an employer can sponsor visas.
Estimated duration: Weeks to months (job search)
Required documents
- CV/resume
- Qualifications and certifications
- English language test (IELTS UKVI or equivalent)
Official links
Step 2: Apply for Skilled Worker Visa
Once you have your CoS, apply online for the Skilled Worker Visa. You'll need to prove English language ability, show you can support yourself, and pay the visa fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Estimated duration: 3-8 weeks processing
Required documents
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Valid passport
- English language proof (IELTS 4.0+ or B1 equivalent)
- Proof of funds (£1,270 in bank for 28 consecutive days)
- Criminal record certificate
Official links
Tips for Algerian applicants
- Since February 2026, UK visas are fully digital (e-Visa). You no longer receive a sticker in your passport — save your e-Visa confirmation email.
- VFS Global replaced TLScontact in October 2024 for all UK visa services in Algeria
- Check the Shortage Occupation List — jobs on this list have lower salary requirements and faster processing
- After 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent residency)
Official links
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