This is an important notice for Nigerians in the UK on Skilled Worker visas who earn money through social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, or other digital content creation.
Many skilled workers assume that once income is declared to HMRC and tax is paid, the activity is automatically permitted under UK immigration law. This is not always the case.
Understanding the Difference: HMRC vs UK Immigration Law
It is crucial to understand that:
- HMRC (tax authority) is concerned with whether income is declared and taxed.
- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is concerned with whether the work itself is permitted under your visa conditions.
Paying tax on income does not mean the work is lawful under the Skilled Worker visa route.
Social Media Income & Skilled Worker Visa Rules
Under UK immigration rules:
- Skilled Worker visa holders are restricted to their sponsored role
- Any additional work must:
- Be in the same profession as the sponsored role OR
- Be on the Skilled Worker Shortage / Eligible Occupation List
- Be limited to 20 hours per week
Income earned from:
- Content creation
- Influencing
- Brand deals
- Ad revenue
- Affiliate marketing
is often classified by UKVI as self-employment or additional employment, which is generally prohibited on a Skilled Worker visa unless it meets the strict criteria above.
Social media influencing is not currently on the Skilled Worker eligible occupation list.
Why This Matters for ILR Applications
UKVI conducts detailed checks at the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) stage. Even activities that occurred years earlier can be reviewed.
Consequences may include:
- ILR refusal
- Visa curtailment
- Impact on dependants’ visas
- Requirement to leave the UK or switch routes urgently
This is particularly serious for families whose spouses and children are dependent on the Skilled Worker visa.
Key Message for Skilled Workers
If you are:
- On a Skilled Worker visa and
- Earning money from social media or digital platforms
You should:
- Pause and seek advice from a UK immigration solicitor
- Do not rely solely on HMRC compliance
- Review your visa conditions carefully
- Get professional guidance before applying for ILR
Many people are unknowingly at risk because social media income feels “informal” or “side income.” Under UK immigration law, it is not treated that way.
Why Naija UK Connect Is Sharing This
Naija UK Connect shares this information to protect our community. Many Nigerians in the UK are talented, hardworking, and digitally skilled—but UK immigration rules are strict and unforgiving.
Learning early can prevent:
- Years of effort being lost
- Family disruption
- Financial and emotional distress
Final Note
This is not legal advice, but a strong warning based on UK immigration rules and recent outcomes.
If ILR or long-term settlement is part of your plan, do not assume—confirm.
Stay informed. Stay protected.
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