Introduction

For many international students in the UK, transitioning from a Student Visa (previously known as the Tier 4 Visa) to a Skilled Worker Visa is a crucial step towards building a long-term career in the UK. The Skilled Worker Visa, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) Visa, allows overseas workers to take up employment with an approved UK employer. This pathway is particularly attractive to students who wish to remain in the UK after completing their studies, as it provides a route to settlement.

This article explores whether you can switch from a UK Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, the eligibility requirements, the application process, and other important considerations.

 

Can You Switch from a UK Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, international students in the UK can switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, UK Visa Consultants in Lahore provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. The UK Home Office allows this switch without requiring the applicant to leave the country, making it a convenient option for students who secure a qualifying job offer from a UK employer.

However, there are specific rules regarding when you can apply and the type of job you must have to qualify.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To successfully switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

  • You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that is registered as a licensed sponsor under the Skilled Worker Visa scheme.

  • The job must be on the list of eligible occupations.

Skill Level Requirement

  • The job must be at RQF Level 3 or above (A-level equivalent) as per UK Home Office requirements.

  • Some jobs, such as those in healthcare and IT, are more likely to qualify.

Salary Requirement

  • The general salary threshold is £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour.

  • For new entrants (which includes students switching from a Student Visa), a lower salary threshold of £20,960 per year or £10.49 per hour applies.

English Language Requirement

  • Your UK degree satisfies the English language requirement, so you do not need to take an additional English test.

Financial Requirement

  • You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account unless your employer certifies your maintenance costs.

Valid UK Student Visa

  • You must be in the UK with a valid Student Visa at the time of application.

 

When Can You Apply?

You can apply to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa as soon as you have completed your course. However, there are different rules depending on your study level:

  • Undergraduate and Master’s Students: You must wait until you receive your final results before applying.

  • PhD Students: You can apply after completing at least 24 months of your PhD.

If your visa is about to expire, you may be eligible for the Graduate Route, which allows you to work in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates). This can give you more time to secure a Skilled Worker Visa job.

 

Application Process

Switching from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa involves several steps:

Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your UK employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which contains details about your job, salary, and employer.

Prepare Required Documents

You will need the following documents:

  • Passport or other valid travel document

  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number

  • Proof of English language proficiency (your UK degree qualifies)

  • Proof of maintenance funds (unless exempt)

  • Academic qualification certificate

  • Tuberculosis test results (if required for your country)

Submit the Online Application

You must apply online through the UK Home Office website and pay the visa fees.

Pay the Application Fees

  • Application fee: £610 - £1,408 (depending on job type and duration)

  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year

Attend a Biometrics Appointment

You will need to visit a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

Wait for a Decision

The processing time is usually 8 weeks, though priority services are available for faster processing.

Benefits of Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa

There are several advantages to switching from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa:

Longer Stay and Path to Settlement

  • A Skilled Worker Visa is valid for up to 5 years and can be extended.

  • After 5 years, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing you to stay permanently.

Work Flexibility

  • You can work full-time in a sponsored job.

  • You can take on additional work in some circumstances.

 Dependents Can Join You

  • Your spouse and children can apply as dependents and will have the right to work and study in the UK.

Challenges and Considerations

While the transition from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa is relatively straightforward, there are some challenges to consider:

Finding a Sponsor

  • Not all UK employers are licensed sponsors, so securing a job with sponsorship can be difficult.

  • Jobs in healthcare, engineering, and IT often have better sponsorship opportunities.

Meeting Salary Requirements

  • Some students may struggle to find jobs that meet the salary threshold.

  • If your job does not meet the minimum salary, you may not qualify.

Timing and Visa Expiry

  • If your Student Visa expires before securing a job, you may need to switch to the Graduate Route or leave the UK.

 

Alternative Options

If you cannot switch directly to a Skilled Worker Visa, consider these alternatives:

Graduate Route Visa

  • Allows you to stay in the UK for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) to find work.

  • You can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa once you secure a qualifying job.

Start-up or Innovator Visa

  • If you have a business idea, you can apply for a Start-up Visa.

Health and Care Worker Visa

  • If you are in the healthcare sector, you may qualify for this visa, which has lower salary thresholds.

 

Conclusion

Switching from a UK Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa is a viable option for many international graduates who secure a sponsored job in the UK. The process is relatively straightforward, provided you meet the eligibility criteria, including salary and skill level requirements.

If you are nearing the end of your studies and wish to stay in the UK, it is advisable to start job hunting early, focusing on employers who can sponsor Skilled Worker Visas. If securing sponsorship proves challenging, the Graduate Route can provide additional time to find a qualifying job.

With careful planning and preparation, transitioning from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa can be a successful pathway to building a long-term career in the UK