By Miss Temi Babatunde – Immigration Lawyer, Regulated by the IAA (UK)
Many international students ask: “How do I switch from a UK Student Visa to a Work Visa?” With the new Skilled Worker salary threshold rising to £41,700 per year, it’s understandable to feel uncertain. The good news is that students and graduates benefit from reduced salary rules and multiple visa options.
In this guide, I’ll explain:
- How to move from a Student Visa to a Work Visa
- The benefits of the Graduate Visa
- How the new entrant salary discount works
- Ways to reassure employers about sponsorship
- The most common questions international students ask
1. Student Visa ➝ Work Visa Pathway
As an international student in the UK, you have two main options:
Option 1: The Graduate Visa
- Work freely in the UK for up to 2 years (soon to be changed to 18 months).
- No sponsorship required, no job restrictions.
- At the end of this period, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if you secure a job offer.
Option 2: Directly Switch to Skilled Worker Visa
- If you already have a qualifying job offer from a licensed sponsor, you can switch straight from your Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa.
- This means you skip the Graduate Visa route entirely.
2. Skilled Worker Salary Threshold Explained
The Skilled Worker minimum salary has increased to £41,700 per year. However, international students and recent graduates are classed as “new entrants.”
This allows you to qualify with a lower salary requirement:
- £33,400 per year ✅ (instead of £41,700)
- 70% of the going rate for your SOC 2020 occupation code
💡 Note: You can only be sponsored under the new entrant rules for a maximum of 4 years, including any time spent on a Graduate Visa.
3. Convincing Employers to Sponsor You
Many employers are hesitant about sponsorship, but it’s easier than they think. Here are key points you can share with them:
- You qualify for a reduced salary rate as a new entrant.
- The sponsorship process is straightforward and affordable for licensed employers.
- Employers are exempt to pay the Immigration Skill Charge for students switching to skilled worker visa.
- If needed, you can start working under a Graduate Visa while your employer completes the sponsorship paperwork.
This reassurance often makes employers more open to offering sponsorship.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if my Student Visa is about to expire?
Yes, as long as you have a job offer from a licensed sponsor, meet the eligibility requirements and have completed your studies, you can switch before your Student Visa ends.
2. Do I need to apply for a Graduate Visa first?
No. The Graduate Visa is optional. If you already have a qualifying job offer, you can switch directly from Student Visa to Skilled Worker.
3. What if my job doesn’t meet the SOC occupation code requirements?
If your role is not on the Skilled Worker eligible occupation list, you won’t be able to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa for that job. You may need to explore alternative visa routes.
4. How long does sponsorship take?
The Skilled Worker Visa application can usually be processed within 8 weeks if applying inside the UK. Priority services are available for faster decisions.
5. Will I qualify for settlement (ILR) on this route?
Yes. Time spent on a Skilled Worker Visa counts towards the 5-year settlement requirement. Time spent on a Graduate Visa, however, does not count towards ILR.
Final Thoughts
Switching from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa is achievable for most graduates. By taking advantage of the Graduate Visa and the new entrant salary discount, you can begin your career in the UK without being restricted by the higher £41,700 threshold.