How to Switch from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?

As international students near the completion of their studies in the UK, thoughts often turn towards the next step in their professional journey. For many, remaining in the UK to begin a career is an attractive option. However, doing so requires careful planning, particularly when it comes to switching immigration routes before the expiry of your current visa. Applying in good time not only ensures compliance with immigration rules but also helps avoid potential complications such as overstaying or application refusals.

The Skilled Worker visa remains one of the most common visa categories for international graduates seeking to remain in the UK. It enables individuals to work in eligible skilled roles for employers who hold a valid sponsorship licence.

Transitioning to this visa type involves satisfying both personal eligibility criteria and job-related requirements, as set out by the Home Office.

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must:

• Hold a genuine job offer from a licensed sponsor who can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
• Meet the English language requirement. Those who have obtained a UK degree typically meet this requirement automatically.
• Demonstrate financial stability if they have been in the UK for less than 12 months. This means showing proof of personal savings of at least £1,270.
• Be of good character, with no history of serious criminal convictions or breaches of immigration law.

It is important to note that from January 2026, the English language requirement will rise from level B1 to B2, reflecting a higher standard of proficiency equivalent to an A-level standard in all four components: speaking, listening, reading and writing.

The role offered by your sponsoring employer must also meet specific criteria:

• Eligible Occupation: The position must appear on the official list of eligible occupations and be assigned a recognised occupation code.
• Skill Level: From 22 July 2025, the minimum skill threshold has been raised to RQF Level 6, equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree. Exceptions apply to roles listed on the Immigration Salary List or the Temporary Shortage Occupation List.
• Salary Level: The general salary threshold is £41,700 per year (based on a 37.5-hour work week), or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher.

Visa timing is crucial. You may apply for a Skilled Worker visa up to three months before the employment start date shown on your Certificate of Sponsorship. It is essential that your new visa application is submitted before your current Student visa expires.

While awaiting a decision on your Skilled Worker application, you are permitted to remain lawfully in the UK, provided your application was submitted before your Student visa expiry date.

If you are switching from a Student visa, you must also satisfy one of the following conditions:

1. You have completed the course for which your most recent Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) was issued;
2. Your job start date is after the completion of your course (for degree-level and above); or
3. You are studying a full-time PhD of at least 24 months duration.

Failure to meet one of these conditions could result in a refusal and if your Student visa expires in the meantime, you risk becoming an overstayer, a situation that can have serious consequences for future immigration applications.

Planning ahead is key to a successful switch. Begin discussions with potential employers early, ensuring they are aware of their sponsorship responsibilities. It is also sensible to gather all required documentation before submitting your application.

Switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa represents an exciting step towards building a long-term career in the UK. With the right preparation and attention to timing, the transition can be straightforward and rewarding. Understanding the requirements well in advance gives you the best possible chance of beginning your professional journey in the UK with confidence and security.

At Morgan Smith Immigration, we understand how important it is to make a seamless transition from studying to working in the UK. With over 20 years of experience, our expert team is here to guide you through every stage of your Skilled Worker visa application and ensure your future in the UK is secure. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].