Switching from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa UK

International students who wish to work in the UK after completing their studies might be able to apply to change ('switch') to a Skilled Worker visa.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we offer expert guidance and professional assistance to individuals seeking to switch their visas. With our deep knowledge of immigration law, we are committed to providing you with the support you need for a successful transition.

Engaging our services can offer numerous benefits throughout the visa switch process. We pride ourselves on our expertise in immigration law and our ability to provide valuable support and guidance at every step.

If you want to apply to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa, contact our immigration solicitors at 0203 959 7755 or fill in the enquiry form.

Table of Contents

What is a UK Skilled Worker visa?

A Skilled Worker visa allows overseas skilled workers to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor licence. The employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for a qualifying role and continue to meet their sponsorship responsibilities. If sponsors fail to comply with Home Office requirements, they risk enforcement action, including suspension or loss of their licence.

If you're an international student hoping to work in the UK post-study, you may qualify to switch to a Skilled Worker visa.

Can I switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa in the UK?

Yes, international students who have completed their studies in the UK may be eligible to switch to a Skilled Worker visa without leaving the country. You need a job offer from a licensed UK employer, and your role must meet the Skilled Worker visa requirements, including the correct salary threshold and occupation code. Legal guidance can ensure your application is complete and reduce the risk of refusal.

What are the benefits of switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa?

One of the key benefits of the Skilled Worker visa is its flexibility. Unlike a student visa that has restrictions on the number of hours individuals can work, the Skilled Worker Visa allows full-time employment. This opens opportunities for international students to gain valuable work experience in the UK and contribute to the country's economy.

Another advantage of the Skilled Worker Visa is the potential to bring dependents to the UK. Spouses, partners, and children may accompany the visa holder and access healthcare, education, and employment opportunities during their stay.

Holders of the Skilled Worker visa may also have a path to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK after 5 years of continuous and lawful residence, provided they meet all the necessary criteria, including minimum salary requirements and absence limits from the UK.

Moeen & Co. Solicitors, with their expertise in UK immigration law, can provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the visa application process. To learn more about the Skilled Worker Visa and how it can be tailored to your specific situation, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at 0203 959 7755.

Requirements for switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa

To switch from a Student visa to a UK Skilled Worker visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be currently in the UK on a valid Student visa.
• Have completed the course of your study.
• Have a genuine job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
• Hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by your employer.
• Ensure the role appears on the UK government's list of eligible occupations.
• The position must meet the required skill level (RQF Level 6 or above).
• Be paid the applicable minimum salary threshold.
• Show you have at least £1,270 in maintenance funds to support yourself, unless your employer certifies maintenance.
• Have appropriate accommodation arranged in the UK.
• Meet any additional criteria relevant to your specific job role or personal circumstances.

New rules for switching from a Student to a Skilled Worker visa

When it comes to switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, it's essential to stay informed about the latest rules and regulations. Recent policy changes have been introduced to streamline the transition process and ensure a smooth pathway for individuals seeking to work in the UK after completing their studies.

From 17th July 2023, the immigration rules require that students must have completed their course of study or have a work start date that is after the completion date of their course before they can switch to the Skilled Worker visa.

UK Skilled Worker Visa New Entrant Salary Threshold 2026

For 2026, the new entrant salary threshold for the UK Skilled Worker visa is £33,400 per year, which is 70% of the standard going rate for most eligible roles.

Key points:

• You must be paid whichever is higher: £33,400 or 70% of your role’s official going rate.
• Standard Skilled Worker threshold: £41,700 gross per year
• New entrant threshold: £33,400 per year
• New entrant rate: 70% of your occupation’s going rate

Even if £33,400 is the general figure, some roles require a higher salary based on their occupation code. Always check your role against the official Skilled Occupations list before applying.

Professional legal advice can help ensure your salary meets the requirements and prevent costly application errors.

Documents required for switching to a Skilled Worker visa

You will need to provide:

• Your valid passport
• Proof of job offer from an approved UK employer
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
• Your job title, occupation code and annual salary
• The name of your employer and their sponsor licence number
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Evidence that you have enough to support yourself
• References from the previous employer

How to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa?

To apply to switch to a UK Skilled Worker visa, the applicant will need to submit an online visa application along with all the supporting documentation and visa fees.

Please refer to the following steps to apply for the Skilled Worker visa UK:

• Step 1: Initial consultation and assessment of your eligibility.
• Step 2: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer
• Step 3: Gathering the required documentation.
• Step 4: Complete the visa application form online.
• Step 5: Submit your visa application supporting documents, and pay relevant fees.
• Step 6: Book and attend the biometric appointment
• Step 7: Monitoring the progress of your application.
• Step 8: Receiving a decision on your application.

To begin your Skilled Worker visa application process, contact us at Moeen & Co. Solicitors today at 0203 959 7755. Our dedicated team is ready to provide you with expert legal assistance and ensure that your application is handled with utmost professionalism and care.

How long does it take to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa?

If you apply from inside the UK, the standard processing time to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa is usually around 8 weeks from the date you submit your online application.

How much does it cost to switch to a Skilled Worker visa?

If you switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK, the application fee is £885. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1,035 per year.

For a 3-year visa, the total cost is £3,990 (£885 visa fee + £3,105 healthcare surcharge).

You may also need to show £1,270 in maintenance funds unless your employer certifies your maintenance on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Skilled Worker visa application fees and associated costs, we recommend consulting our immigration lawyers at Moeen & Co. Solicitors. We will guide you through the fee structure and ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved in your visa application.

How Our Immigration Solicitors Can Help With Your UK Visa Application

Why choose Moeen & Co. Solicitors for your UK Skilled Worker visa?

Need assistance with your UK Skilled Worker visa application?

Need help switching from a Student visa to a UK Skilled Worker visa? Call Moeen & Co. Solicitors today on 0203 959 7755 or complete our online contact form for expert legal advice.