Those on Student visas must now comply with additional requirements regarding the completion of their course when switching to the Skilled Worker route.
As of 17 July 2023, the Home Office announced changes to the Immigration Rules in relation to those on UK Student visas switching to the Skilled Worker route. In order to switch to a Skilled Worker visa, Student visa holders must now comply with one of the following requirements:
- Condition A: The applicant must have completed their course of study for which the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies was assigned; or
- Condition B: The applicant must be studying a full-time course of study at degree level or above, and the work start date must be no earlier than the course completion date; or
- Condition C: The applicant must be studying a full-time PhD course, and the work start date must be no earlier than 24 months after the start date of that course.
This represents a shift back to previous Home Office policy, which was aimed at ensuring that those on Student visas were not switching to work routes whilst completing their course.
This change is now in effect. As such, it is crucial that applicants are aware of these changes, so they can ensure they meet the requirements in order to submit a successful application.
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 Twitter, 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.
©Gherson 2023
