Switching From Student Visa To Skilled Worker Visa

Switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa allows international graduates to remain in the UK and begin full-time employment with a licensed sponsor. This route is commonly used by individuals who want to transition from study to a long-term professional career.

Under the immigration rule changes introduced on 17 July 2023, applicants must generally complete their course before switching into the Skilled Worker route from within the country.

Who Cannot Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Not all visa holders are eligible to switch into the Skilled Worker category. You cannot switch if your most recent permission was granted as:

  • A Visitor
  • A Student (unless you meet specific switching requirements)
  • A Short-term student
  • A Parent of a Child Student
  • A Seasonal Worker
  • A Domestic Worker in a private household
  • Outside the Immigration Rules

If you are on a different visa route, you may still be eligible to switch if you meet all the required criteria.

Your dependants (partner or children) will not automatically switch visas with you. They must submit their own applications if they wish to change their immigration status.

Switching from A Student Visa to A Skilled Worker Visa

To apply from within the country after holding a Student visa, you must meet one of the following conditions at the time of application:

  • You have successfully completed the course for which your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) was issued
  • You are studying a full-time degree-level course with a compliant education provider, and your job start date is after your course completion date
  • You are studying a full-time PhD programme, and your job start date is at least 24 months after the start of your course

Can I Switch from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, you can switch if you meet one of the following conditions:

  • Condition A: You have completed the course linked to your CAS
  • Condition B: You are studying a full-time degree, and your Certificate of Sponsorship start date is after your course completion
  • Condition C: You are studying a PhD, and the CoS start date is at least 24 months after your course start date

Key Requirements for Switching from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa

To successfully switch, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Valid Application: Submit a complete and valid application
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Must be issued within 3 months before applying
  • Points Requirement: Score 50 points from mandatory criteria and 20 points from tradeable criteria
  • Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old

What Are the Benefits of Switching from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Switching to a Skilled Worker visa provides several advantages:

  • Full-Time Work Rights: No restrictions on working hours
  • Career Development: Opportunity to gain professional experience
  • Dependants: Ability to bring partner and children
  • Access to Services: Dependants can access healthcare and education
  • Route to Settlement: Eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years

New Rules for Switching from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa

Following the changes introduced on 17 July 2023, applicants must:

  • Complete their course before switching, OR
  • Ensure the job start date is after the official course completion date

These rules ensure that students prioritise their studies before transitioning into full-time employment.

Minimum Salary for Skilled Worker Visa – 2025

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, your salary must meet the higher of the general threshold or the job’s going rate.

  • General Salary Threshold: £38,700 per year
  • Going Rate: Based on your job’s occupation code

Some applicants, such as new entrants or specific roles, may qualify under different thresholds.

How to Switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa

Follow these steps to switch your visa:

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment

Check your qualifications, job offer, and eligibility.

Step 2: Obtain Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Gather CoS, qualifications, English proof, and financial evidence.

Step 4: Complete Online Application

Submit your application through the official system.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Upload Documents

Pay visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

Step 6: Biometric Appointment

Provide fingerprints and photograph.

Step 7: Application Processing

Wait for the application to be processed.

Step 8: Decision Outcome

Receive your visa decision.

Mandatory Non-Tradeable Points for Switching into Skilled Worker Visa (50 Points Required)

You must score 50 mandatory points, made up of:

  • Sponsorship: 20 points
  • Job at appropriate skill level: 20 points
  • English language (B1 level): 10 points

Salary Thresholds for CoS Assigned on or After 4 April 2024

Below are the salary options explained in bullet format:

Option A (Salary only):

  • £38,700
  • Full going rate
  • £15.88 per hour

Option B (Relevant PhD):

  • £34,830
  • 90% of going rate
  • £15.88 per hour

Option C (STEM PhD):

  • £30,960
  • 80% of going rate
  • £15.88 per hour

Option D (Immigration Salary List):

  • £30,960
  • Full going rate
  • £15.88 per hour

Option E (New entrant):

  • £30,960
  • 70% of going rate
  • £15.88 per hour

Option F (Health/Care or transitional):

  • £29,000
  • Full going rate
  • £11.90 per hour

Option G (Health/Care + PhD):

  • £26,100
  • 90% of going rate
  • £11.90 per hour

Option H (Health/Care + STEM PhD):

  • £23,200
  • 80% of going rate
  • £11.90 per hour

Option I (Health/Care + Salary List):

  • £23,200
  • Full going rate
  • £11.90 per hour

Option J (Health/Care New Entrant):

  • £23,200
  • 70% of going rate
  • £11.90 per hour

Option K (Health/Education roles):

  • £23,200
  • Full going rate

Priority or Super Priority Service for Switching from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa

Faster decision services are available:

  • Super Priority Service: Decision within 24 hours
  • Priority Service: Decision within 5 working days

How Long Does It Take to Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?

The standard processing time is up to 8 weeks from the date of application.

Applicants who choose priority services may receive a decision much faster depending on availability.

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