By Admin 
As a Skilled Worker Visa holder (formerly Tier 2), you may find yourself with extra time outside your primary job, particularly if you work regular shifts with evenings free. However, given the visa restrictions, you might be wondering how to legally increase your income without breaching any conditions.
In this post, we’ll explore some legal ways to boost your earnings while staying compliant with your visa rules.
1. Overtime or Extra Hours with Your Current Employer
One of the simplest ways to increase your income is by working additional hours with your current employer. Many employers offer overtime or extra shifts, and since this falls within your existing job, it won’t require additional sponsorship or permission from the Home Office.
Benefits:
- Legal and Simple: No need for extra paperwork or approval.
- Fits Your Visa Conditions: As you’re already sponsored by your employer, extra hours are allowed as long as they remain within the scope of your contract.
2. Secondary Employment in the Same Occupation
If you’re looking for something more flexible, you may take up a second job for up to 20 hours per week as long as it is:
- In the same profession and at the same level as your main job (this must fall under the same Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code as your primary job), or
- In a profession listed on the Shortage Occupation List.
For example, if you’re working in healthcare, you can take up evening or weekend shifts with a different employer as long as it’s still within your SOC code.
How to Find a Second Job:
- Check Locum or Part-Time Opportunities: Look for roles that match your SOC code, allowing you to legally work extra hours.
3. Freelancing Within Your Occupation
Although business activities and full self-employment are restricted under the Skilled Worker Visa, some forms of freelance work may still be allowed if they fall within your permitted occupation. For instance, if you are a healthcare professional, you might offer consulting services or give professional advice outside your main role, as long as it’s within your field.
Key Points to Remember:
- Stick to Your Profession: Ensure any freelance work stays within the scope of your primary job.
- Don’t Exceed 20 Hours: You can only do up to 20 hours of additional freelance work each week.
4. Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteering is a great way to spend your free time productively, expand your network, and gain new skills, which could potentially lead to future opportunities. While it won’t increase your income directly, it may open doors to promotions or new job roles down the line.
Why Volunteering Works:
- No Legal Restrictions: You are free to volunteer as long as it doesn’t interfere with your primary job.
- Skill Development: Volunteering can enhance your CV, making you more competitive for future roles.
5. Remote/Online Freelancing (Non-Employment Income)
You might be interested in online activities like content creation, affiliate marketing, or teaching online courses. These activities are typically not classified as employment and may provide an additional income stream.
Potential Options Include:
- YouTube or Blogging: Monetize your content through ads or sponsorships.
- Affiliate Marketing: Earn commissions by promoting products through your website or social media.
- Online Tutoring: If you have expertise in a particular subject, you could offer online lessons in your free time.
Ensure that any activities are passive in nature (such as ad revenue or affiliate income) to avoid violating visa conditions.
6. Teaching or Training
If you have extensive knowledge in your field, you could offer teaching or training sessions in your spare time. For example, healthcare professionals can offer webinars or create online courses related to their profession.
Platforms to Explore:
- Udemy: Offer online courses on your area of expertise.
- Teachable: Build a platform to teach skills within your profession.
Just like with freelancing, ensure this activity is related to your primary job and SOC code to remain compliant.
7. Passive Income through Investments
While business ownership is restricted, you are allowed to invest in financial markets. This could include buying stocks, bonds, or other financial instruments that provide passive income, such as dividends.
How It Works:
- Stocks and Shares: Buy dividend-paying stocks to generate extra income.
- Savings Accounts: Invest in high-interest savings accounts or bonds for additional returns.
Since this is passive income, it won’t interfere with your visa status.
While there are restrictions on working outside of your occupation on a Skilled Worker Visa, there are still several ways you can increase your income legally. Whether it’s taking on extra hours, freelancing within your field, or exploring passive income options, make sure to stay within your visa conditions to avoid any complications with the Home Office.
If you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to consult an immigration lawyer to ensure your additional work complies with your visa restrictions.
This blog post can help your readers who are on a Skilled Worker Visa understand how to maximize their earning potential while staying compliant with UK immigration laws.