Taking on extra work as a Skilled Worker

Taking on extra work as a Skilled Worker? Make sure you are up to date with the rules!

At Five Star, we understand the drive to maximise your opportunities while working in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa route. If you’re thinking about taking on additional paid work alongside your sponsored job, it’s essential to ensure you remain compliant with the latest immigration rules.

As of 22 July 2025, the Home Office has introduced new guidance around supplementary employment – clarifying who is eligible and under what circumstances this type of work is allowed.

What you’re allowed to do:

If you hold permission as a Skilled Worker, you may undertake up to 20 hours of paid work per week in addition to your sponsored role – but only if:

• The extra work is done outside your contracted hours with your main employer;
• You continue your sponsored job exactly as outlined in your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS);
• The additional job fits one of the following criteria:
• It is in the same profession and professional level as your sponsored job;
• It is on the Immigration Salary List;
• It appears in Tables 1, 2 or 3 of Appendix Skilled Occupations;
• If your Skilled Worker permission was granted before 22 July 2025 and has been held continuously, jobs listed in Tables 1a, 2aa or 3a also qualify.

Do you need to tell the Home Office?

No, you do not need to apply for a new visa, CoS or inform the Home Office as long as your extra work meets the above requirements.

However:

• Your supplementary employer must be aware that this is additional employment;
• They must still conduct a full right to work check;
• Working outside these rules is a breach of visa conditions and could jeopardise your immigration status.

The July 2025 update brings more transparency but also raises the stakes for compliance.

To protect your status:

• Check that you’re on a qualifying visa route;
• Stick to the 20-hour weekly cap;
• Work outside your primary hours;
• Ensure the role fits the updated eligibility framework.

When in doubt, always consult official guidance or speak to our immigration specialists at Five Star. We’re here to help you navigate the rules – safely and confidently.

Contact us