Securing a UK Skilled Worker Visa starts with preparing the right documents. Missing paperwork is the #1 reason for delays or rejections. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your application succeeds.

Mandatory Documents for All Applicants

1. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your UK employer provides this reference number. It confirms:

• Your job title, salary, and occupation code
• Employer’s sponsor licence number
  Tip: Verify your CoS details with experts before applying.

2. Proof of English Proficiency

Acceptable options:

• IELTS (minimum 4.0) or CEFR B1 certificate
• Degree taught in English (with ECCTIS reference number)

3. Valid Passport or Travel ID

• Must have 6+ months validity
• Blank page for visa stamp (non-EU applicants)

Additional Documents (Case-Specific)

4. Financial Proof

Provide bank statements showing:

• £1,270+ in savings (held for 28 days) OR
• CoS stating the employer will cover costs

5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results

Required if applying from countries like India, Pakistan, or Nigeria.

6. Relationship Evidence

For dependents (spouse/children):

• Marriage/birth certificates
• Proof of cohabitation (utility bills)

7. Criminal Record Certificates

Required if you work in:

• Education (teachers, childminders)
• Healthcare (doctors, nurses)
• Social services (probation officers)
  Rule: Submit certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months (if under 28) or 10+ years (if 28+).

Special Cases

8. Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

Needed for PhD researchers in sensitive fields (e.g., nuclear physics).

9. Certified Translations

For non-English/Welsh documents. Ensure translations include:

• Translator’s credentials
• Confirmation of accuracy

How to Apply

1. Gather Documents: Use our checklist UK site.
2. Complete Online Form: On the UK Government website.
3. Book Biometrics Appointment: At a visa center.
4. Submit & Wait: Processing takes 3–8 weeks.

Avoid These 3 Common Mistakes

Mixing Up Visa Types: Skilled Worker ≠ Health and Care Visa (different rules).
Ignoring Expiry Dates: Passports/TB tests must be valid at application.
DIY Translations: Use Gov-approved translators only.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply if I’ve lost my CoS?
A: Ask your employer for a copy immediately.

Q: Do EU citizens need a blank passport page?
A: Only if using non-biometric passports.

Q: How long are TB results valid?
A: 6 months from the test date.

Need Help?
Columbus Visas simplifies UK immigration with:
 CoS Verification Service
 Document Review & Gap Analysis
 Priority Visa Processing

Start Your Free Assessment

The post UK Skilled Worker Visa: Your Complete 2025 Document Checklist appeared first on Columbus Visas.

Planning a move to South Africa? Get expert-backed steps for visas, finances, and local insights. Avoid common mistakes. Start your journey today.

Essential Documentation Checklist

• Valid passport (6+ months validity) + police clearance from all countries lived in for 1+ year.
• Critical Skills Visa applicants: Ensure your qualification matches the SA Critical Skills List.
• Medical insurance (mandatory for study/work visas).

Financial Preparation Tips

• Open a bank account with international access from your home country.
• Budget R15,000–R25,000/month for urban areas (Cape Town/Johannesburg).

Pre-Move Checks

• Verify school accreditation if relocating with kids (DBE-approved institutions).
• Research neighborhoods like Sandton (Joburg) or Sea Point (Cape Town) for safety.

What NOT to Do

• Never overstay visas – SA imposes strict fines/entry bans.
• Avoid DIY applications if your qualifications need SAQA verification.

How We Help:
➔ Critical Skills Work Visa
➔ Family Visa Assistance

The post Moving to South Africa: Your Step-by-Step Relocation Guide (2025) appeared first on Columbus Visas.

Your Canada relocation is simplified! Learn documentation, financial prep, and how to avoid rookie mistakes. Start your journey confidently.

Critical Documents

• Express Entry Profile with valid IELTS/CELPIP scores.
• Proof of Funds ($13,757+ for single applicants).
• Students: Study Permit requires an acceptance letter from a DLI-approved institution.

Financial Must-Knows

• Build credit history fast with a secured credit card (TD/RBC).
• Save 30% extra for winter costs (heating/snow tires).

Pre-Arrival Research

• Check provincial healthcare wait times (e.g., Ontario: 3+ months).
• Job seekers: Get Canadian certifications for regulated fields (nursing/engineering).

Costly Mistakes to Avoid

• Never land without a job offer (reduces settlement funds buffer).
• Don’t skip French – Bilingualism boosts Quebec opportunities.

We Simplify:
➔ Express Entry Applications
➔ Family Sponsorship

The post Move to Canada Stress-Free: Visa Steps, Costs & Expert Tips appeared first on Columbus Visas.

 Moving to the UK? Discover key steps for visas, finances, and settling in. Learn how to avoid costly errors. Expert support is available.

Must-Have Documents

• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) for stays over 6 months.
• TB test results (if from high-risk countries like India/Pakistan).
• Students: Secure your UK Study Visa with a CAS letter from your university.

Money-Saving Strategies

• Use Wise or Revolut for low-cost GBP transfers.
• Budget £1,200–£2,500/month outside London (higher in the capital).

Key Local Insights

• Check the Right to Rent status before leasing a property.
• Families: Research Ofsted-rated schools in areas like Surrey or York.

Common Pitfalls

• Never ignore the NHS surcharge – £624/year per adult.
• Don’t assume all jobs sponsor visas – Verify with our UK Work Visa team.

Our Expertise:
➔ Skilled Worker Visa
➔ UK Spouse Visa

The post Relocating to the UK: Smart Planning for 2025 Success appeared first on Columbus Visas.