Introduction

Many international students finish their studies in the UK and want to stay to work. The good news is that most students can switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa without leaving the UK — as long as they meet the requirements.

This step-by-step guide explains how switching works, what documents are needed, and how employers can sponsor graduates.

✅ Can You Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes — most students can switch inside the UK if:

• They have a confirmed job offer
• The employer holds a Sponsor Licence
• The job meets the Skilled Worker salary and skill level
• They receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Students do not need to leave the UK to apply, which makes the process faster and easier.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Switch

✅ Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

The employer must be approved by the Home Office.
They must offer a genuine skilled job that meets the salary and occupation code rules.

Many graduates receive jobs through:

• Graduate schemes
• Internships that convert to full-time roles
• Direct job applications

✅ Step 2: Employer Issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once the offer is confirmed, the employer assigns a digital Certificate of Sponsorship.

The CoS includes:

• Job title and occupation code
• Salary
• Start date
• Sponsor details

The visa application cannot be started without the CoS number.

✅ Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Students normally need:

• Passport
• Certificate of Sponsorship
• Proof of English level (degree is usually enough)
• TB test (if applicable)
• Police clearance (for certain roles)
• Financial evidence, unless employer certifies maintenance

If you completed a degree in the UK, your English requirement is automatically met — you do not need another test.

✅ Step 4: Apply Online for the Skilled Worker Visa

The application is done on the UK Government website.
You will provide:

• Personal details
• Travel history
• Passport details
• CoS information
• Payment for visa and IHS (Health and Care visa has no IHS)

After submitting, you will be asked to verify identity and provide biometrics.

✅ Step 5: Biometrics and Identity Check

You will either:

• Use the ID Check App on your phone, or
• Visit a visa application centre and submit fingerprints and a photo

✅ Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Most applications take around 8 weeks inside the UK.
Priority services can be used for faster results if available.

Once approved, you can start working full-time for your sponsor.

✅ Can You Work Full-Time While Switching?

You can work full-time after your Skilled Worker Visa is granted.

Before approval, you must follow Student Visa work rules, unless:

• You finished your degree
• Your course officially ended
• Your CAS end date has passed
• OR you moved to the Graduate Visa

If unsure, professional advice is recommended to avoid breaches.

✅ How Long Does the Visa Last?

Up to 5 years at a time.
After 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if eligible.

✅ Can Family Members Stay With You?

Yes.
Dependants can switch with you if they already live in the UK, or apply from abroad if new dependants are joining.

✅ Why Applicants Get Refused

Common reasons include:

• Wrong occupation code
• Salary below minimum
• Employer is not a licensed sponsor
• Missing documents
• Incorrect application information

Working with a regulated immigration adviser reduces the risk.

✅ How Stonebridge Legal Solutions Helps

Stonebridge assists with:

• Skilled Worker applications
• Switching from Student Visa
• Employer sponsorship and CoS
• HR and compliance
• ILR planning for the future

If you are graduating and want to stay in the UK, professional guidance protects your immigration status and helps you start your career smoothly.

📞 Contact Stonebridge Legal Solutions today for help switching to a Skilled Worker Visa.