How to get a Work Visa in the UK and send money home
At Paysend, we understand that many people move to the UK to build a better future and support their families back home. Whether it’s for career growth, education or new opportunities, settling into the UK starts with understanding the visa process.
Once you’ve secured your work visa, staying connected with loved ones becomes a priority. That’s where Paysend comes in – helping you send money home securely, affordably and quickly.
For most individuals outside the UK, a visa is required to work for a UK employer. Since Brexit, this requirement also applies to European Union (EU) citizens. However, there are some exceptions:
- Ancestry Visa: If at least one of your grandparents was born in the UK, you may qualify for an Ancestry visa, which includes the right to work.
- Irish Citizens: Irish citizens can live and work in the UK under the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement.
- Right of Abode: If you’re a Commonwealth citizen with the right of abode, you won’t need a visa.
Student visa holders and citizens from countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand can stay in the UK for up to six months as visitors, but they cannot engage in paid employment.
Thriving immigrant communities in the UK
The UK is home to diverse and vibrant communities from around the world. Here are some of the most prominent:
- India: A significant community contributing to sectors like healthcare, IT, and other skilled professions. Discover more about securing a UK Work Visa from India.
- Poland: Known for its strong presence in construction, hospitality, and the food industry. Learn more about applying for a UK Work Visa from Poland.
- Nigeria: A growing population of professionals and students, particularly in healthcare and education. Explore more about applying for a UK Work Visa from Nigeria.
- Bangladesh: A prominent community, especially in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. Read more about securing a UK Work Visa from Bangladesh.
These communities not only contribute to the UK’s culture and economy but also stay connected with family abroad, often by sending financial support. With Paysend, international money transfers are fast, secure and easy — helping you send money home with ease. Once you've secured your visa, the next step is settling into life in the UK. From finding a home to understanding local culture, our [guide to settling in the UK] has practical tips to help you get started.
UK Work Visas and the Shortage Occupation List
Under the UK’s points-based immigration system, most non-UK residents need a visa to work in the UK. The primary route for skilled workers is the Skilled Worker visa, which has replaced the former Tier 2 (General) visa.
For employers wishing to sponsor skilled non-UK resident workers, strict requirements apply to the role being recruited for. These include meeting specific criteria for skill level, salary thresholds and sponsorship obligations.
Eligibility for a Skilled Worker Visa
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Skills: The role must meet the required skill level as defined by UK Immigration Rules.
- Salary: The general minimum salary threshold is £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour. Lower thresholds may apply for roles on the Shortage Occupation List or new entrants.
- English Language: Applicants must demonstrate a proficient level of English, such as through an IELTS test or a degree taught in English.
For full details, visit the official UK Government page: Skilled Worker Visa.
Shortage Occupation List
The Shortage Occupation List, outlined in Appendix Skilled Occupations of the UK Immigration Rules, identifies roles that are in short supply within the UK’s resident labour market. Jobs on this list benefit from:
- Lower visa application fees.
- Reduced salary thresholds for eligibility.
Common shortage occupations include healthcare professionals, engineers and IT specialists. To see the latest list, check the UK Government’s Shortage Occupation List.
Types of UK Work Visas
The UK offers a variety of work visa options to suit different career paths and timeframes:
- Short-Term Work Visas: Ideal for temporary roles such as seasonal workers, graduate trainees, or charity volunteers. These visas typically last between 6 months and 2 years.
- Long-Term Work Visas: For professionals in skilled occupations, including healthcare workers, engineers and IT specialists. These visas can lead to permanent residency after five years.
- Entrepreneur and Self-Employed Visas: For innovators and talented individuals with unique business ideas or skills. Examples include the Innovator Founder Visa and the Global Talent Visa.
- Minister of Religion Visa: For individuals taking up religious leadership roles in the UK.
How to apply for a UK Work Visa
Applying for a UK visa involves several steps, and it’s essential to gather the correct documents. These typically include:
- A valid passport or ID.
- Proof of personal savings to support yourself in the UK.
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g. IELTS score).
- A certificate of sponsorship from an approved UK employer.
- A tuberculosis test result (if required). Applicants from certain countries or those who have recently visited specific regions may need to provide this as part of their application.
Visa Fees
- Health and Care Worker Visa: Fees start from £247.
- Skilled Worker Visa: Fees start from £719 when applying from outside the UK.
Processing Times
Visa applications made from outside the UK typically take 3 weeks to process. It’s advisable to apply well in advance to account for processing times and any additional requirements.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended that you visit the UK Government’s official UK Work Visas page.
Supporting your family back home with Paysend
For many immigrants, sending money home is an essential way to stay connected and support loved ones. And Paysend makes it easy for expats, by offering:
- Fast transfers: Send money to over 170 countries in minutes.
- Low fees: Transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
- Secure transfers: Paysend meets the highest security standards, so your money is always protected.
- Convenient options: Transfer funds to bank accounts, digital wallets or for cash pick-up.
Whether you’re sending money to India, Poland, Pakistan, Nigeria or Bangladesh, Paysend provides competitive exchange rates and multiple delivery methods to ensure your money reaches its destination quickly and reliably.
Why Choose Paysend?
Since 2017, Paysend has been helping millions of people move money around the globe. We’re more than just a money transfer service – we’re your partner in staying connected with family and supporting them, no matter where life takes you.
Ready to send money home? Start your transfer today with Paysend by downloading the Paysend app for free:
Or, if you’re reading on a browser, you can create your account through our official website.
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