Discover essential steps and requirements for international graduates transitioning from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa in the UK.
As a recent or soon-to-be graduate in the UK, you may be considering how to extend your stay and continue your career in this country. While the Graduate visa route offers a temporary extension, switching directly from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa could be more beneficial in the long run, specifically since it counts toward settlement in the UK.
To successfully make this switch, you need to meet several key requirements. First, you must have completed your course of study for which your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) was assigned for. If you have received a job offer from a UK employer willing to sponsor you, the next step is obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from them. The Home Office will assess the job offer to ensure it is genuine, meets the appropriate skill level, and that you possess the required English language proficiency (at least Level B1 in the Common European Framework Reference).
Sponsorship plays a crucial role in this process. Your employer must hold a valid sponsorship licence and be prepared to cover the Immigration Skills Charge associated with your employment. If you are switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa, you will be considered a ‘new entrant’, which means you might benefit from lower salary thresholds, making it easier to meet visa requirements.
Remember that timely application submission is critical. Ensure your application is submitted before your current visa expires to avoid any complications. By carefully adhering to these steps, you can secure your future in the UK and set the stage for a successful career.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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