Switch from a UK Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa

Many students can apply to switch into the Skilled Worker route from inside the UK, but the timing rules are strict. In most cases you must have completed your course before your Skilled Worker start date; PhD students have different rules. Check the current GOV.UK guidance for your situation before accepting a start date.

The key requirement is a genuine job offer from an employer that holds a sponsor licence, who assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for an eligible occupation at the required salary.

The Graduate visa lets eligible graduates stay and work for a limited period without a sponsor, but it cannot be extended and does not lead directly to settlement. The Skilled Worker visa is tied to a sponsoring employer and can count towards settlement if you continue to meet the rules.

Some graduates move to the Graduate route first and look for a sponsored role while working. We compare both options for your course end date and job prospects.

Search for roles in your field, then check every employer on the official "Register of licensed sponsors: workers" published on GOV.UK. A real sponsor will interview you, give you a contract and explain your salary and duties.

A job offer or offer letter does not extend your visa by itself. You still need a genuine employer, a real role and a successful application through the official government process.

We check your profile against the route, explain what the official rules require, and help you prepare a complete, accurate application. We also introduce suitable candidates to employers registered in the destination country that are recruiting for genuine roles.

The employer interviews you and decides whether to hire you, and the government decides your visa. Where the destination country requires immigration advice to come from a registered or authorised professional, that advice is given by our partner lawyers.