Scotland Work VISA: 5 Steps to Your Work VISA

Dreaming of working in Scotland? Securing a Scotland work VISA is your gateway to opportunities in this vibrant part of the UK. In this guide breaks down the process into five clear steps, covering VISA types, costs, requirements, and eligibility to help you navigate the application with confidence.

Scotland Work VISA: 5 Key Steps

Step 1: Choose the Right VISA Type

Scotland, as part of the UK, offers several work VISAS under the UK immigration system:

• Skilled Worker VISA: For roles meeting skill and salary thresholds (usually £26,200+ annually).
• Health and Care Worker VISA: For healthcare professionals with NHS or approved employer job offers.
• Temporary Worker VISAS: Includes Seasonal Workers, Creative Workers, or Graduate Trainee VISAS for short-term roles.
• Global Talent VISA: For leaders in academia, tech, or the arts (no job offer required).

Most applicants use the Skilled Worker VISA, which requires sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid license.

Step 2: Calculate VISA Costs

The Scotland work VISA process involves several fees (subject to change in 2024):

• Application Fee: Ranges from £625 to £1,423, depending on VISA length and whether you apply inside/outside the UK.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year, payable upfront for the entire VISA duration.
• Biometrics Fee: £19.20 to £100+ for VISA centers outside the UK.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Employers pay £199–£1,000 to sponsor your VISA.

Total costs vary widely—check the latest fees on the UK Government website.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Prepare these essentials for your Scotland work VISA application:

• Valid Passport: With at least 6 months’ validity and one blank page.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Unique reference number from your employer.
• Proof of English Proficiency: B1 level test (exemptions for nationals of English-speaking countries).
• Financial Evidence: Bank statements showing £1,270+ for 28 days (unless your sponsor covers costs).
• Job Details: Role, salary, and SOC code from your employer.
• TB Test Results: Required if applying from certain countries.

Step 4: Confirm Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Scotland work VISA, you must:

• Have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship license.
• Meet the minimum salary threshold for your role (varies by occupation).
• Prove English language skills.
• Show sufficient savings (unless exempt).
• Provide a clean criminal record (if applying for roles in education, healthcare, etc.).

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Complete the online form on the UK Government portal.
2. Upload documents and pay fees (application + IHS).
3. Book a biometrics appointment at a VISA center.
4. Attend the appointment and submit your passport.
5. Wait 3–8 weeks for a decision (priority services cost extra).

Once approved, you’ll receive a vignette sticker in your passport. Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in Scotland within 10 days of arrival.

Final Tip

The Scotland work VISA process can be complex, for streamlined support, consider services like Foreignway, which assist with document checks, application reviews, and deadline management.

Disclaimer: VISA fees, rules, and requirements change frequently. Always confirm details via the UK Government’s official site or consult an immigration advisor before applying.