Sponsored skilled workers

This section contains details of the routes available to skilled workers who have a job offer from a UK-based employer. You should read the eligibility requirements for your category in full before making an application.

Many existing immigration categories are due to close in November 2008. After this date, anyone with permission to stay in United Kingdom who wants to extend their stay will need to apply under the points-based system.

Further information about the date the existing schemes will close will be published later in the year.

Applying after November 2008

If you are planning on applying after November 2008 you will need to apply under a new sponsored skilled worker category within the points-based system. This category will be made up of three sub-categories. You can read our planned policy for the new sub-categories below. Further information will be published later in the year.