Switching from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa in 2025 – What You Need to Know

Finishing your studies in the UK can feel like standing at a crossroads — you’ve built a life, formed friendships, and now you’re wondering, “How can I stay and start my career here?”

The good news is that switching from a Student Visa (previously Tier 4) to a Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most common routes for graduates who want to remain in the UK long term. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full process — from eligibility and documents to tips on finding the right employer sponsorship.

At AHJ Immigration, we’ve helped many international graduates take this important step. Whether you’re just finishing your degree or nearing the end of your Graduate Visa, we’ll make sure your transition to a Skilled Worker Visa is smooth and successful.

Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to live and work in the UK for an approved employer. It replaced the old Tier 2 (General) visa and is designed to bring skilled professionals into roles that meet certain job and salary criteria.

You’ll need:

• A valid job offer from a UK employer with a Home Office sponsorship licence
• A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• A job that meets the skill level and salary threshold
• Proof of English proficiency
• Financial stability to support yourself until your first paycheck

This visa is normally granted for up to 5 years and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Why Switch Instead of Leaving and Reapplying?

If you’re already in the UK on a Student Visa, switching from inside the country is simpler, faster, and often cheaper than leaving and reapplying from abroad.

You can apply as soon as you’ve received your job offer — even before your current visa expires — as long as:

• You’ve completed your course, or
• You’ve been studying for at least 12 months towards a UK degree.

This means you can start your Skilled Worker journey without interruption, saving both time and travel costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa

Step 1: Find a Licensed Sponsor Employer

Only employers with a valid Home Office sponsor licence can offer you a Skilled Worker position. Check the official Sponsor List to confirm your employer’s eligibility.

Tip: Large organisations, universities, and hospitals often hold sponsorship licences, but smaller companies might not — always verify before accepting a job offer.

Step 2: Receive Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once your employer issues a CoS, it includes details of your job title, salary, and sponsorship number. This document is essential for your visa application.

Step 3: Check Salary and Occupation Code

Your job must meet the minimum salary threshold (usually around £38,700, though some exceptions apply for new entrants and shortage occupations).

AHJ Immigration can review your CoS and occupation code to ensure it meets Home Office criteria before submission — a step that prevents many unnecessary refusals.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll typically need:

• Passport or travel ID
• Current visa or BRP
• Certificate of Sponsorship
• Proof of English (degree taught in English or approved test)
• Financial proof (if required)

If your dependants are applying with you, they’ll need to submit additional documents such as marriage or birth certificates.

Step 5: Apply Online and Pay Fees

You can apply online via GOV.UK. You’ll pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), then book your biometrics appointment.

Step 6: Attend Biometrics Appointment

At your UKVCAS appointment, you’ll provide your fingerprints, photo, and signature.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Most Skilled Worker applications from inside the UK are decided within 8 weeks, though priority services are available.

Costs of Switching in 2025

Remember, costs can vary depending on your job type, dependants, and employer sponsorship.

Can I Work While My Application Is Pending?

Yes — if you apply before your Student Visa expires, you can continue working under your previous visa conditions while awaiting a decision. This is one of the biggest advantages of switching inside the UK.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even strong applications are sometimes refused for small errors. Common issues include:

• Accepting a job from a non-licensed employer
• Submitting an invalid or expired Certificate of Sponsorship
• Applying too early (before course completion)
• Using outdated salary codes
• Missing supporting documents

These are easily avoided with professional guidance. Our team checks each detail to ensure your case meets Home Office standards from day one.

Why Graduates Choose AHJ Immigration

Switching visas is more than a formality — it’s your next step towards a career and life in the UK. Our job is to make that transition smooth, fast, and stress-free.

Here’s what you get with us:

• Free 30-minute consultation: Review your situation and eligibility.
• 1-hour paid consultation (£120): Detailed document review and strategy session (deducted from final fees).
• Application preparation: From CoS verification to submission and Home Office correspondence.
• Ongoing communication: We handle queries and status updates for you.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 today to book your consultation and secure your future in the UK.

What Happens After You Get the Skilled Worker Visa

Once approved, you can:

• Work full-time for your sponsoring employer
• Bring your dependants to the UK
• Switch employers (with a new CoS)
• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years

This route can eventually lead to British citizenship — meaning your student journey can evolve into a permanent future in the UK.

Skilled Worker FAQs

1. Can I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa before finishing my degree?
Only if you’ve completed at least 12 months of a UK degree-level course or already received your results.

2. Do I need to leave the UK to switch visas?
No. You can apply from within the UK before your current visa expires.

3. What happens if my employer loses their sponsor licence?
You’ll need to find a new sponsor within 60 days or apply for another visa category.

4. Can dependants switch with me?
Yes — your spouse and children can switch at the same time, provided you meet financial and accommodation requirements.

5. How soon should I apply?
Ideally 3 months before your Student Visa expires, giving enough time to prepare documents and avoid gaps in permission to stay.

Start Your Skilled Worker Journey Today

Don’t leave your future to chance — switching visas is a big decision, but with the right guidance, it’s a straightforward process.

Call 0121 828 2224 or book your free 30-minute consultation today to discuss your eligibility.
Your future career in the UK starts here.