UK Skilled Worker Visa Interviews: Common Home Office Questions When Skills Are in Doubt

When assessing an application for entry clearance under the Skilled Worker visa, UK Home Office not only reviews the documentary evidence submitted but may also conduct an interview to test the applicant’s suitability and genuineness for the sponsored role. During these interviews, applicants are often asked key Home Office questions, which are crucial in determining whether the applicant meets the requirements under Appendix Skilled Worker of the Immigration Rules.

Applicants are expected to genuinely intend to undertake and be capable of undertaking, the role for which they are being sponsored. In cases where there is doubt, the Home Office may invite the applicant to attend an interview, usually conducted via video conference. The aim is to establish the applicant’s level of knowledge, experience and understanding of the job as described on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

During these interviews, the Home Office may ask:

• Do you have any relevant experience or qualifications in this field? Please provide details.
• What are your job duties in the UK? What will you be doing on a day-to-day basis?
• Can you explain how your past experience relates to this role?
• How did you come across this job opportunity in the UK?
• What is your current job role in your home country?
• How long have you held your current role?
• Have you applied for any other jobs in the UK?
• Where will you be living in the UK? Can you provide the full address?

These questions are intended to assess whether the applicant possesses the knowledge and practical experience necessary to perform the job they are being sponsored for. However, if applicants show only a superficial understanding or fail to articulate their job responsibilities, Home Office may conclude they are not genuine Skilled Workers and consequently refuse the visa application.

For licensed sponsors, compliance with Home Office regulations extends beyond the initial sponsorship process. Employers must ensure that they have credible and comprehensive documentation that supports the genuineness of each sponsored role. This includes:

• Assessing applicant’s understanding of the role by asking them to provide practical examples that demonstrate their skills and experience. This ensures applicants are not only presenting information from their CV but are also able to clearly articulate how their abilities align with the job requirements. 
• Documenting the rationale for selecting a particular candidate.
• Ensuring the job description on the CoS matches the duties discussed during interviews.

• Clearly define job roles and responsibilities in the CoS.
• Conduct thorough interviews and maintain written records.
• Verify applicant’s skills and experience
• Review and update compliance procedures regularly to align with Home Office guidance.

UK Home Office places significant weight on an applicant’s ability to demonstrate both suitability and genuineness for the Skilled Worker role. Where doubts arise, interviews serve as a critical mechanism to assess whether the applicant truly understands the job and possesses the skills and experience required. During these interviews, Home Office asks common questions to actively test applicant’s knowledge and suitability. If applicants give unsatisfactory responses or fail to provide sufficient evidence, the UK Home Office will refuse the application.

This highlights the importance of ensuring that sponsors confirm each applicant is fully qualified for the role they are sponsoring them for. Therefore, employers must take active steps to verify an applicant’s experience, in addition to assessing their practical understanding of the job and preparing them for potential interview questions. For example, this includes evaluating the applicant’s understanding of the role by asking them to provide practical examples that clearly demonstrate their skills and experience. Ultimately, failing to do so can lead to refused applications!

With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your UK immigration needs. Whether you’re a corporate sponsor or an individual applicant, our team can provide expert guidance and end-to-end support. Contact us today for tailored advice or to schedule a consultation. Call us on 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected], your immigration journey starts here!