Shreyashi Pathak Study Abroad Content Specialist
Study Abroad Content Specialist
After completing their studies, many Indian students aspire to stay in the UK and build their careers. One of the best ways to achieve this is by switching from a student visa to a skilled worker visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK, work in a qualified role, and potentially become eligible to apply for permanent residency after a few years.
To switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa, you need a job offer from a licensed UK employer, the job must meet the minimum salary (£38,700/₹4,218,300) and skill level, and you must prove your English proficiency. Additionally, the cost for visa application is £625 (₹68,125). Students should also remember they cannot leave the UK while their visa application is being processed, as doing so will result in the application being withdrawn.
Also Check - UK Work Visa
Eligibility Requirements for Switching Visas
The eligibility requirement for switching of student visa to a skilled worker visa are:
- A Valid Student Visa
- Offer letter - A confirmed job offer from a UK employer.
- Eligible Occupation - Job must be on the skilled occupation list (jobs in the UK that require a certain skill level).
- Salary Requirement - Salary must meet the minimum threshold £38,700 (₹4,218,300) per year.
- English Language Proficiency - You must prove you can speak, read, write, and understand English at a B1 level (an intermediate level of proficiency on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
- Financial Requirement - You may need to show least £1,270(₹138,430) in your bank account, unless your employer covers this cost in the Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Issued by your employer.
- Criminal Record Check - For certain jobs, like healthcare and education.
- Apply While You’re Still in the UK- You need to switch your visa while you’re still in the UK and before your current student visa expires.
Also Check: UK Skilled Worker Visa
Documents Required for the Visa Transition
The table below shows all the necessary documents required for switching from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa:
| Document | Purpose | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | Proves your job offer and sponsorship | Issued by your employer; includes job and salary info. |
| Passport or Travel Document | Verifies your identity and current visa status | Must be valid. |
| Current Student Visa | Confirms your current legal status in the UK | Provide current student visa or BRP. |
| Proof of English Proficiency | Shows you meet the English language requirement | -IELTS: Minimum score of 4.0 in all sections. |
| -TOEFL: Minimum score of 30 in each section. | ||
| Proof of Salary/Job Offer | Verifies your identity and current visa status | Usually covered by the CoS. |
| Proof of Savings | Shows financial support | At least £1,270 for 28 days (unless covered by employer). |
| Criminal Record Certificate | Required for certain jobs like healthcare or education | Needed for certain job roles and countries. |
| TB Test Results | Ensures you are TB-free | Required for applicants from certain countries. |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Payment | Proof of payment for access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) | Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. |
| Biometric Information | Required for Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) | You’ll provide fingerprints and a photo at a visa application center as part of the application process. |
Also Check:
Application Process for Visa Switching
The simplified guide for application process for visa switching is listed below:
- Get a job offer from a UK company with visas sponsorship for workers.
- Your employer will give you an electronic certificate (Certificate of Sponsorship) that proves your job offer meets the visa rules.
- Gather all the required key documents like your passport, proof of English skills, job details, and CoS number.
- Submit an online application using the UK government’s official website before your student visa expires.
- You may need to provide your fingerprints and photo at a visa center or scan your ID using the app.
- You will receive the decision within 8 weeks of submitting the application.
- Once approved, you’ll get a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which allows you to stay and work in the UK.
- Once your visa is issued, you can legally start working in your new role.
Costs and Fees Involved
The table below shows all the important fees and cost involved in visa switching process:
| Fee Type | Cost (GBP) | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee (up to 3 years) | £625 (standard) / £479 (shortage list) | ₹68,125 / ₹52,211 |
| Visa Application Fee (more than 3 years) | £1,235 (standard) / £943 (shortage list) | ₹1,34,615 / ₹1,02,487 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £624 per year | ₹68,016 per year |
| Priority Service (optional) | £500 | ₹54,500 |
| Super-Priority Service (optional) | £800 | ₹87,200 |
| Biometric Information Fee | £19.20 | ₹2,092 |
| Criminal Record Certificate | £18 | ₹1,962 |
| Document Translation | £30 to £100 | ₹3,270 to ₹10,900 |
Also Check: UK Student Visa Application
Things to Remember During Visa Switch Process
Listed below are some of the key things to remember during the visa switch process:
- Make sure you submit your application before your current student visa expires.
- Gather all the necessary documents, like your job offer, passport, and proof of English skills, before applying.
- Ensure your employer has a sponsorship license and provides a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Confirm that your job pays the minimum required salary for the visa.
- Avoid leaving the UK while your visa application is being processed, or it might be withdrawn.
- It can take up to 8 weeks to get a decision, so plan your work start date accordingly.
- Be prepared to cover application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Review your application carefully to avoid delays or rejections.
Also Check - Job Opportunities in UK for Indian Students
Briefly, we can say This route benefits students by offering a smooth transition to work without needing to leave the UK, ensuring they can build their career immediately after studies. Additionally, early preparation, including networking with employers and understanding sponsorship criteria, can be crucial for securing job offers and enhancing their chances of a successful visa application
FAQs
Ques Can I work while my visa application is being processed?
Ans: If you apply to switch visas before your Student Visa expires, you can continue to study and work as allowed under your Student Visa until you get a decision.
Ques What if my Student Visa expires before I switch?
Ans: It is important to apply before your visa expires as If your Student Visa expires, you are not allowed to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa.
Ques Can I switch from a student visa to a skilled work visa in the UK while studying if I find a job?
Ans: No, you can’t switch while still studying. To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you need to complete your degree and secure a job offer that meets visa requirements, such as salary thresholds and sponsorship from a UK employer
Ques How long is a Skilled Worker Visa valid?
Ans: The Skilled Worker Visa can be granted for up to five years, depending on your job contract. You can apply to extend it if needed.
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