Quick Answer
Primary Visa: Skilled Worker Visa
Expected Salary: EUR 45,000 - 85,000/year
Processing Time: 3-8 weeks. Application fee GBP 719-1,420. Immigration Health Surcharge GBP 1,035/year.
Key Requirements: Job offer from licensed sponsor. Salary at or above going rate for role (typically GBP 38,000+ for software engineers). English B1+. No degree required if experience is sufficient.
The UK remains one of the world's premier tech markets, with London ranking alongside San Francisco and New York. The Skilled Worker Visa is the primary route for software engineers, requiring a job offer from a licensed sponsor employer.
Software engineering roles appear on the Immigration Salary List (formerly Shortage Occupation List), which reduces the salary threshold. The going rate for software developers is approximately GBP 38,000, though most London roles pay GBP 50,000-85,000+. Senior engineers at top firms earn GBP 80,000-120,000.
The UK tech ecosystem includes global headquarters (ARM, DeepMind, Revolut, Wise), major offices of US tech giants, and a deep venture capital market. Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol, and Cambridge are growing alternatives to London with lower costs.
Path to Permanent Residency
After 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). You must pass the Life in the UK test and meet the English requirement. British citizenship is available 1 year after ILR.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
Is software engineering on the UK's Shortage Occupation List?
Software engineering roles appear on the Immigration Salary List (the updated Shortage Occupation List). This means reduced salary thresholds and lower visa application fees. However, your employer must be a licensed sponsor, and the specific role must match eligible occupation codes (SOC 2134 or 2136).
How much does the UK Skilled Worker Visa cost?
The visa application fee is GBP 719 for up to 3 years or GBP 1,420 for over 3 years. You also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of GBP 1,035 per year. Many employers cover these costs as part of their relocation package. Total first-year cost (visa + IHS) is approximately GBP 1,750-2,450.
Can I switch employers on a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, but you must apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa with the new employer before starting work. The new employer must be a licensed sponsor and issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship. The process takes 3-8 weeks and involves an additional fee. You cannot work for the new employer until the application is approved.