Time

As soon as the above paperwork is received, it will take up to one week to obtain the CoS. After this the applicant can apply for their visa. Once they’ve applied online, proved their identity and provided their documents, they’ll usually get a decision on their visa within:

• 4 weeks, if they’re outside the UK – they can start work as soon as they arrive in the country.
• 8 weeks, if they’re inside the UK – if the worker was previously on a Skilled worker visa, they must have the visa confirmed before the employment commences.

Fairness and Equality
All applicants should be treated equally and if they meet the essential criteria, they should be shortlisted and invited to an interview regardless of whether or not they need a visa.