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Switching From Student Visa To Skilled Worker Visa
Get expert guidance on switching from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa in the UK. Step-by-step advice from trusted immigration solicitors. 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.
As per the new immigration rules announced on 17 July 2023, a student will need to complete their course to switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa inside the UK.
If you require Immigration Advice Services or help switching from a student visa to a skilled worker visa, please contact +441614644140 or email us at info@deluxelawchambers.co.uk for skilled worker visa switching from student visa advice.
Who cannot switch to a skilled worker visa?
People in the UK on another immigration route can ‘switch’ (change route) to the Skilled Worker route if they meet all the relevant immigration requirements and were not last granted permission:
- as a Visitor
- as a Student, unless they meet the additional rules for people switching
from the Student route (as set out below) - as a Short-term student
- as a Parent of a Child Student
- as a Seasonal Worker
- as a Domestic Worker in a Private Household
- outside the Immigration Rules
You might be able to apply to change (‘switch’) to a Skilled Worker visa if you’re already in the UK on a different type of visa.
Your partner or child’s visa will not automatically switch to this visa if you switch yours. If they do not switch their visa, it will be valid until its original end date.
Table of Contents
Switching from A student visa to A skilled worker visa
If you wish to apply for permission to stay (from within the UK) and you have, or last had, permission as a Student (including as a Tier 4 (General) Migrant), you must meet one of the following conditions on the date you make your skilled worker application to be allowed to switch to the Skilled Worker route:
- they must have completed the course of study for which they were being sponsored as a Student
- they must be studying a full-time course of study at degree level or above with a higher education provider which has a track record of
compliance, and the start date on their CoS must be no earlier than the course completion date - they must be studying a full-time course of study leading to the award of a PhD with a higher education provider which has a track record of
compliance, and the start date on their CoS must be no earlier than 24 months after the start date of their PhD
Can I switch from student visa to Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, you can switch to a skilled worker visa from student visa if you meet on of the following conditions:
Condition A: the applicant must have completed the course of student for which the CAS letter was assigned; OR
Condition B: the applicant must be studying a full-time course of study at degree level with a higher education provider which has a track record of compliance and the certificate of sponsorship start date must not be earlier than the course completion date; OR
Condition C: the applicant must be studying a full-time course of study study leading to the award of PhD with a higher education provider which has a track record of compliance and the certificate of sponsorship start date must not be earlier than 24 months after the start date of the course.
Key Requirements for Switching from Student visa to Skilled Worker visa
The applicant must meet the following requirements of the Immigration Rules to successful switch into Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK:
Valid Application
The applicant must submit a valid application for switching into skilled worker visa from inside the UK.
Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The applicant must have a certificate of sponsorship that was issued to them by their sponsor no more than 3 months before the date of application.
Points Requirement
The applicant must score 50 points from mandatory non-tradeable points and score at least 20 points from tradeable points.
Applicant’s Age
The applicant must be aged 18 or over at the date of application for switching into skilled worker visa.
What are the benefits of switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa?
Switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa offers a range of benefits for international graduates looking to build a long-term future in the UK.
One of the main benefits is the flexibility to work full-time. Unlike the Student visa, which limits working hours during term time, the Skilled Worker visa permits full-time employment. This allows visa holders to gain valuable professional experience, contribute to the UK economy, and progress in their chosen careers.
Another key advantage is the ability to bring dependants to the UK. Skilled Worker visa holders can be joined by their spouse or partner and children, who can access the NHS, education, and even employment opportunities throughout their stay.
Perhaps most importantly, the Skilled Worker visa provides a clear route to settlement. After five years of continuous and lawful residence, visa holders may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided they meet certain requirements, including salary thresholds and permitted absences from the UK.
At Deluxe Law Chambers, we specialise in UK immigration law and can guide you through every step of the Skilled Worker visa application process. Whether you’re currently on a Student visa or exploring your immigration options, our experienced team is here to help.
Contact us today at 01614644140 to discuss how we can support your transition to a Skilled Worker visa and help you secure your future in the UK.
New Rules for Switching from Student Visa to Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
If you’re an international student in the UK aiming to stay and work after your studies, it’s crucial to understand the latest immigration rules regarding switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa.
As of 17th July 2023, updated immigration regulations have come into effect. These changes are designed to streamline the process and ensure individuals make the transition to work in the UK only after meeting specific academic and employment criteria.
Under the new rules, students can only switch to a Skilled Worker visa if they have completed their course of study, or if their job start date is scheduled after the official end date of their course. This policy aims to reinforce the principle that student visa holders should primarily focus on completing their studies before entering full-time employment.
If you are looking to switch, it’s advisable to consult with qualified immigration solicitors to ensure you meet all requirements and timelines under the updated rules.
Minimum Salary for Skilled Worker Visa UK – 2025
If you’re planning to apply for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK in 2025, it’s essential to understand the updated salary requirements. The minimum salary you must be paid will depend on either the general salary threshold or the going rate for your specific job—whichever is higher.
- General Salary Threshold:
As of 2025, the standard minimum salary for most Skilled Worker visa applicants is £38,700 per year (gross). This is the baseline requirement set by the UK government. - Going Rate for the Job:
Each job eligible under the Skilled Worker route is assigned an occupation code, which comes with a designated “going rate”. This rate reflects the national pay standard for that specific role. Your job offer must meet at least the going rate for the occupation to qualify.
Some exceptions may apply to new entrants, certain health and care jobs, and roles on the Shortage Occupation List, where different thresholds might be permitted.
How to Switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
If you’re currently in the UK on a Student visa and wish to continue living and working in the UK after completing your studies, you may be eligible to switch to a Skilled Worker visa. To do so, you must meet the eligibility requirements and follow the proper application process.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa:
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment
Seek an initial consultation to assess your eligibility based on your qualifications, job offer, and immigration history.
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Secure a job offer from a UK employer that is licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visa applicants. Your employer must issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documentation, including your CoS reference number, proof of qualifications, English language proficiency, financial evidence (if required), and your current visa details.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
Fill out the Skilled Worker visa application form via the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
Step 5: Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Upload your supporting documents and pay the required visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Step 6: Biometric Appointment
Book and attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
Step 7: Application Processing
Track the progress of your application while the UKVI processes your submission.
Step 8: Receive a Decision
Once a decision is made, you will be informed of the outcome. If successful, your new Skilled Worker visa will allow you to live and work in the UK under your sponsor.
Need Help?
Switching visa routes can be complex. It’s advisable to seek guidance from experienced immigration solicitors to ensure a smooth and compliant application process.
Mandatory Non-Tradeable Points For Switching Into Skilled Worker Visa (50 Points Required)
The applicant must score 50 mandatory non-tradeable points to succeed in an application for switching into Skilled Worker visa and the remaining 20 can be scored from tradable points. The mandatory non-tradeable points are given in the table below:
| Characteristics | Points |
| Sponsorship | 20 |
| Job at appropriate skill level | 20 |
| English language skills at level B1 (intermediate) | 10 |
Salary thresholds for CoS assigned on or after 4 April 2024
The table below summarises Skilled Worker salary thresholds and points options for Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) assigned on or after 4 April 2024. See section SK6 for detailed guidance on the requirements for these points options.
| A | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £38,700 (general threshold) • the full going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations • £15.88 per hour | Salary only |
| B | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £34,830 per year; • 90% of the going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations • £15.88 per hour | Relevant PhD |
| C | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £30,960 per year; • £15.88 per hour; and • 80% of the going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations. | Relevant PhD in a STEM subject |
| D | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £30,960 per year; • £15.88 per hour; and • the full going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations | Job in Appendix Immigration Salary List |
| E | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £30,960 per year; • £15.88 per hour; and • 70% of the going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 1 of Appendix Skilled Occupations | New entrant |
| F | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £29,000 (general threshold) • the full going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 2 or 2a of Appendix Skilled Occupations. • £11.90 per hour | Salary only (Health and Care ASHE salary job or transitional provision) |
| G | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £26,100 (general threshold) • 90% of the going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 2 or 2a of Appendix Skilled Occupations • £11.90 per hour | Relevant PhD (Health and Care ASHE salary job or transitional provision) |
| H | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £23,200 (general threshold) • 80% of the going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 2 or 2a of Appendix Skilled Occupations • £11.90 per hour | Relevant PhD in a STEM subject (Health and Care ASHE salary job or transitional provision) |
| I | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £23,200 (general threshold) • the full going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 2 of Appendix Skilled Occupations • £11.90 per hour | Job in Appendix Immigration Salary List (Health and Care ASHE salary job or transitional provision) |
| J | Salary must meet or exceed all of: • £23,200 (general threshold) • 70% of the going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 2 or 2a of Appendix Skilled Occupations • £11.90 per hour | New entrant (Health and Care ASHE salary job or transitional provision) |
| K | Salary must meet or exceed both: • £23,200 (general threshold) • the full going rate for the occupation code as stated in Table 3, 4 or 5 of Appendix Skilled Occupations | Eligible health or education occupation code |
Priority or Super Priority Service For Switching from student visa to Skilled Worker Visa
As specialist skilled worker visa lawyers based in Manchester, can prepare and submit your application for switching into skilled worker visa to receive a decision within 24 hours if you submit your application through Super Priority Service or within 5 working days if you submit your application through Priority Service.
How long does it take to switch to a Skilled Worker visa?
The Home Office generally takes up to 8 weeks to make the decision when you’re applying to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa category from inside the UK. However, you may be eligible to use priority service to get a faster decision.
Switching from a student visa to a Skilled Worker visa (FAQs)
Can I switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK?
Yes, you can switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa without leaving the UK, provided you meet all the eligibility requirements.
Can I bring dependents on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, you can bring dependents, including your spouse and children under the age of 18, on your Skilled Worker visa.
Why should I hire a UK work visa lawyer?
Hiring a UK work visa lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a successful application. They have expertise in navigating the complexities of UK immigration law, ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and meets all eligibility requirements.
