Tool · Comparison
UK visa comparison
Compare any two UK visa routes side-by-side. Fees, eligibility, duration, work rights and path to settlement.
Visa A
Skilled Worker
From £827 · 3 or 5 years
Fee range
£827 – £1,636
IHS
£1,035/year
Processing
3 weeks (out) / 8 weeks (in)
ILR
5 years
Visa B
Graduate
From £880 · 18 months (3 yrs PhD)
Fee range
£880
IHS
£1,035/year
Processing
8 weeks
ILR
Does not count toward ILR
| Attribute | Skilled WorkerA | GraduateB |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | £827 | £880 |
| IHS (Health Surcharge) | £1,035/year | £1,035/year |
| Salary threshold | £41,700 (or going rate) | N/A |
| Duration | 3 or 5 years | 18 months (3 yrs PhD) |
| Processing time | 3 weeks (out) / 8 weeks (in) | 8 weeks |
| Sponsor required | Yes | No |
| Dependants allowed | Yes | No |
| Work rights | Sponsored only | Unrestricted |
| English requirement | B1 | N/A (proved at Student stage) |
| Path to ILR | 5 years | Does not count toward ILR |
How to use this comparison
Pick the two routes you\'re weighing up. Look at fees and IHS for short-term cost, salary threshold for whether you qualify, and path to ILR for long-term settlement value. The fastest routes to ILR are Innovator Founder (3 years) and Global Talent (3 years for exceptional talent endorsement).