Compare UK Visa Routes
The UK points-based immigration system offers several routes depending on your circumstances. This table compares the most common visa routes.
| Feature | Skilled Worker | Family Visa | Student Visa | Graduate Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sponsor required | Yes (employer) | Yes (UK-based partner/parent) | Yes (education provider) | |
| Salary threshold | £38,700 (general) | MIR applies | N/A | N/A |
| Maximum initial stay | 5 years | 2.5 years (then extend) | Course length | 2 years (3 for PhD) |
| Can lead to settlement | Yes (after 5 years) | Yes (after 5 years) | ||
| Can work | Yes (for sponsor + supplementary) | Yes (unrestricted) | Limited (20 hrs/week term time) | Yes (unrestricted) |
| IHS surcharge | £1,035/year | £1,035/year | £776/year | £776/year |
Immigration rules change frequently. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK before applying.
Related guides
Skilled Worker Visa Overview
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for people from outside the UK to work in the country. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 as part of the post-Brexit points-based immigration system. To be eligible, you generally need a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence, and your role and salary must meet the required thresholds.
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Family Visa: Overview
The UK's family immigration rules allow certain close family members of British citizens and those with settled or pre-settled status in the UK to apply to join them. The most common route is the spouse and partner visa, but other routes exist for children, parents, and other dependent relatives. Family visa rules changed significantly in April 2024, with a substantial increase to the minimum income requirement.
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Student Visa Basics
The UK Student Visa (previously called the Tier 4 student visa) allows people aged 16 and over to study in the UK at a licensed Student sponsor institution. It replaced the Tier 4 (General) visa in October 2020. To apply, you must have an unconditional offer from a licenced UK Student sponsor and meet financial, English language, and other requirements.
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Graduate Route After Study
The Graduate Route allows international students who have completed a degree or other qualifying qualification in the UK to stay for up to two years after graduation (or three years for doctoral graduates) to work, look for work, or do other activities. It was launched in July 2021 and has been used by hundreds of thousands of graduates.
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