Specified Skilled Worker

For SSW Type 1 (which covers the first 5 years), family members are generally NOT permitted to accompany you. For SSW Type 2 (unlocked later for advanced skills in specific industries), family members are allowed.

No. The incredibly criticized TITP was designed as a 'skills transfer' program (though heavily abused). The newer SSW is explicitly an employment visa intended to combat severe labor shortages, offering better legal protections and freedom to change jobs within the same sector.

Yes, you can change employers as long as your new job is within the exact same industrial sector as your skills exam (e.g., moving from one restaurant to another). Changing sectors requires passing a new exam.

Type 1 is capped at a total maximum stay of 5 years. However, if you upgrade to SSW Type 2 by passing highly advanced skills exams (available mostly in Construction, Shipbuilding, and soon other sectors), you can renew indefinitely and eventually apply for Permanent Residency.