If you’re on a Graduate Visa in the UK and have secured a job offer from a UK employer, you may be eligible to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa. This change allows you to work long-term in the UK and can eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and even UK citizenship. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make the switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, including eligibility criteria, application steps, and benefits.
1. Why Switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Graduate Visa allows international graduates to stay in the UK for up to 2 years (or **3 years for PhD holders) to work or look for work without employer sponsorship. However, it is not extendable and does not lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). By switching to a Skilled Worker Visa, you can gain long-term employment, benefit from employer sponsorship, and set a pathway to permanent residency.
Key Benefits of Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa:
- Longer Stay: The Skilled Worker Visa is valid for up to 5 years, with the option to renew.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After 5 years on the Skilled Worker Visa, you can apply for ILR.
- Stability and Sponsorship: The Skilled Worker Visa provides job security, as it’s linked to a specific employer.
2. Eligibility Requirements for Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa
To switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, you need to meet the eligibility criteria set by the UK Home Office.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: You must have a job offer from a UK employer who is licensed by the Home Office to sponsor Skilled Worker visas.
- Eligible Occupation Code: Your job must fall under an eligible occupation code listed by the UK government.
- Salary Requirement: Your job offer must meet the minimum salary threshold, which is usually £26,200 per year or the “going rate” for the occupation (whichever is higher).
- English Language Requirement: You have already met this requirement as a Graduate Visa holder, so no further English test is needed.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must provide a CoS, a reference number that includes details of your role and salary.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to switching from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa:
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor
The first step is to secure a job offer from a UK employer who is licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visas. Ensure that your role and salary meet the Skilled Worker Visa requirements.
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is a unique reference number that includes details about your role, salary, and employment terms.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application and Documents
Gather the necessary documents for your Skilled Worker Visa application, including:
- Current Passport and any other travel documents
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
- Proof of Funds (if your employer hasn’t certified maintenance on your CoS)
- Tuberculosis Test Results (if applicable, for certain countries)
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa online through the UK government’s official visa portal. Be sure to select the option to switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Application Fee: The Skilled Worker Visa fee depends on the length of stay, ranging from £625 to £1,423.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year of your visa, payable upfront.
Step 6: Attend a Biometric Appointment
Attend a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph, which will be used to issue your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
Step 7: Wait for a Decision
Skilled Worker Visa processing usually takes up to 8 weeks for applications from within the UK. Priority processing is available for an additional fee if you need a faster decision.
4. Costs of Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa
Switching from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa involves certain costs, which may include:
| Type of Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | £625 to £1,423 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £624 per year of visa validity |
| Priority Processing (optional) | £500 for faster processing |
Some employers may cover these fees, so check with your sponsoring employer.
5. Rights and Responsibilities on a Skilled Worker Visa
As a Skilled Worker Visa holder, you will have certain rights and responsibilities:
Rights
- Work in Your Sponsored Role: You are authorized to work only in the role specified by your sponsoring employer.
- Path to Settlement: After 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- Family Members: You can bring eligible family members, such as your spouse or dependent children, to the UK.
Responsibilities
- Follow Employment Conditions: You must work only for your sponsoring employer in your designated role.
- Report Changes: Inform the Home Office if there are any significant changes in your circumstances, such as changes to your job, salary, or personal status.
6. Transitioning from a Skilled Worker Visa to ILR
The Skilled Worker Visa is a pathway to permanent residency (ILR) in the UK. After holding the Skilled Worker Visa for 5 continuous years, you can apply for ILR if you meet the following criteria:
- You’ve stayed within the 180-day absence limit in any 12-month period.
- You continue to work in an eligible role with a licensed employer.
- You meet the Life in the UK Test and English language requirements.
Once you have ILR, you can live in the UK permanently without visa restrictions.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa without leaving the UK?
Yes, you can switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa from within the UK.
2. Do I need a new English test to apply for the Skilled Worker Visa?
No, if you have previously met the English language requirement, such as through your Graduate Visa, you do not need to retake the test.
3. What happens if my job offer doesn’t meet the minimum salary requirement?
You must meet the minimum salary requirement (usually £26,200 or the going rate for your role) to qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa. Some roles on the shortage occupation list have a lower salary requirement.
4. Can my family stay with me if I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, eligible dependents (such as a spouse or children) can stay with you on a Skilled Worker Visa, but they must apply for dependent visas.
5. Is there a limit to how many times I can renew the Skilled Worker Visa?
There’s no limit on the number of times you can renew the Skilled Worker Visa as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
6. Can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, after 5 years on the Skilled Worker Visa, you may apply for ILR if you meet the residency and other requirements.