Top 5 Mistakes International Graduates Make When Switching Visa (and How to Avoid Them)

Stay and build your career in the UK

You’ve completed your degree, started your first job, and settled into life in the UK. The Graduate Visa gave you freedom and opportunity, but now you’re ready for something more stable.

If you want to stay long-term, the next step is switching to a Skilled Worker Visa. It’s the route that allows international graduates to continue working in the UK, gain sponsorship, and move closer to permanent settlement.

This guide explains exactly how to make the switch, what requirements to meet, and how to avoid common mistakes that could delay your future in the UK.

Who this guide is for

This guide is designed for:

• International students currently on a Graduate Visa
• Graduates who have found full-time employment in the UK
• Employers who want to retain international staff through sponsorship

If you’re unsure whether your current role qualifies, this guide will help you check your eligibility and prepare the right documents before applying.

Key requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa

To switch successfully from a Graduate Visa, you must meet several requirements set by the Home Office.

Eligibility

You can apply if you:

• Hold a valid Graduate Visa at the time of application
• Have a confirmed job offer from a licensed sponsor
• Are working in an eligible occupation code
• Meet the minimum salary threshold
• Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer

Salary and occupation codes

As of 2025, the general salary threshold is £38,700 per year, or the “going rate” for your specific job, whichever is higher.

However, if you are a new entrant (including recent graduates), or your job is on the shortage occupation list, you may qualify with a lower salary.

Always check the official occupation code list before applying to ensure your role qualifies.

Documents required

You’ll need:

• Passport and current visa
• Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer
• Proof of English language ability (usually covered by your UK degree)
• Bank statements or employer confirmation showing you can support yourself
• TB test results (if applicable)

Applications are usually processed within 8 weeks, and you must apply before your Graduate Visa expires.

Step-by-step process to switch visas

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Confirm your job, salary, and employer meet the Home Office’s Skilled Worker requirements.

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your employer must issue a valid CoS confirming your job title, salary, and occupation code.

Step 3: Prepare your application

Gather your documents and complete the online application form from within the UK.

Step 4: Pay the fees

• Application fee: £719–£1,500 depending on job type and length
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year

Step 5: Await your decision

Standard processing takes up to 8 weeks. Priority services are available if you need a faster decision.

Once your Skilled Worker Visa is granted, you can continue working for your sponsor under your new conditions.

Timeline and fees summary

Fees are always subject to change, but information is correct at the time of publishing.

Common mistakes to avoid

Missing the deadline

Many graduates wait too long before applying. Start the process at least 3–6 months before your Graduate Visa expires.

Incorrect job code

Your role must match the exact occupation code used by your sponsor. Even small differences can cause refusals.

Salary errors

Falling below the required rate even slightly, can lead to rejection. Always double-check your salary level.

Employer not licensed

Only Home Office-approved sponsors can issue Certificates of Sponsorship. Confirm your employer’s licence status early.

Incomplete documents

Ensure your supporting evidence matches exactly across every form and document.

How AHJ Immigration helps you succeed

Switching visas can feel complicated, but you don’t have to handle it alone.

At AHJ Immigration, we make the process clear and stress-free by helping you:

• Check your eligibility and occupation code
• Confirm your sponsor’s licence status
• Prepare and review your documents
• Complete and submit your Skilled Worker Visa application

We ensure every stage meets Home Office standards and give you honest, personalised advice tailored to your circumstances.

📞 Call us on 0121 828 2224 for a friendly chat about your situation. Book a free 30 minute consultation here.

Book your consultation

We offer two simple options to help you take the next step.

Free 30-minute consultation

Get a general overview of your visa options and the key requirements for switching from a Graduate Visa. This session covers:

• Which routes are available after study
• How sponsorship and salary thresholds work
• What your next steps should be

Or call 0121 828 2224 to book by phone.

Paid 1-hour consultation (£120)

After your free consultation, you can book a paid 1-hour session where we:

• Review your documents in detail
• Assess your eligibility and likelihood of success
• Provide step-by-step guidance tailored to you

This fee is deducted from your final application cost if you continue with us.

FAQs

1. Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Yes. You can apply from inside the UK before your Graduate Visa expires.

2. Does time on a Graduate Visa count towards settlement?
No. The five-year period for Indefinite Leave to Remain starts once your Skilled Worker Visa begins.

3. Can I work while waiting for my Skilled Worker Visa decision?
Yes. As long as your Graduate Visa is valid when you apply, you can continue working.

4. What if my employer doesn’t have a sponsorship licence?
They can apply for one. We can help guide your employer through the sponsorship process.

5. Can my dependants stay in the UK with me?
Yes. Your partner and children can stay or apply to join you under your Skilled Worker Visa.

Take the next step toward your UK future

Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa is your opportunity to turn post-study experience into a long-term career. With the right planning and expert guidance, you can secure your stay and start building your future in the UK.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 or book your free consultation today.

After your free call, you can choose a paid 1-hour consultation (£120) for a full document review and personalised plan, and we’ll deduct the fee from your final visa cost if you continue with us.

Your career deserves stability. Let’s make it happen.