The skilled worker visa, also known as the Tier 2 visa, is a visa category that allows skilled workers from outside the UK to come and work in the country. This visa is aimed at people who have skills that are in high demand in the UK, and who have been offered a job by a UK employer who is willing to sponsor them.

To apply for this visa, you must have a job offer from a UK employer that meets the minimum skill level requirement and pays the minimum salary threshold. You must also pass an English language assessment and meet the necessary health and character requirements.

Once you have been granted the visa, you will be allowed to work in the UK for up to five years. After this time, you may be eligible to apply for settlement, also known as indefinite leave to remain.

Overall, the skilled worker visa is designed to help UK businesses fill skill shortages in the domestic labor market while also attracting highly skilled workers from overseas.

COVID-19 has affected UK job market, but jobs are still available in healthcare, logistics, delivery, and tech. The government has introduced support initiatives like furlough, apprenticeships, and Kickstart for youth employment. Remote working has also increased, broadening opportunities for job seekers. Long-term effects of the pandemic may include increased automation, part-time work, and competition for jobs.