The United Kingdom still remains a favorite destination for international graduates who hope to build successful careers after completing their education. International graduates prefer staying in the UK after graduation because of the need for professional experience, gaining skills, and career prospects. One of the common paths for eligible candidates is switching from the UK Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa.
When you are a graduate from the UK and you want to continue working in the UK, then it is necessary to know about visa switch process. If you are eligible and you find a good job from an approved employer, the Skilled Worker Visa will allow building your career in the UK.
Here, in this article, we will talk about the differences between both visas, eligibility criteria, salary criteria, procedure of application, and things to consider when switching visas.
1. Understanding the UK Graduate Visa
The UK Graduate Visa is an immigration option that permits eligible international students to stay in the UK following completion of a qualified program at a UK university or other higher education establishment.
This permit enables graduates to:
Work in most occupations without requiring employer sponsorship.
Seek employment options.
Gather work experience in their industry.
Pursue various career options.
Be self-employed or run a business in accordance with the terms of the permit.
The UK Graduate Visa is a short-term immigration solution. Employer sponsorship of the graduate is not required under this permit. However, it is usually not renewable, and individuals wishing to stay in the UK longer than the period of validity of the visa have to look into another qualifying immigration permit.
2. What Is a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa is the UK working visa program that is meant for international workers who have been offered a suitable employment by a UK company which is recognized by the Home Office.
In contrast to the Graduate Visa, this category demands a sponsored employment. A valid CoS should be provided by the sponsoring employer, and a suitable position should meet all the necessary requirements.
It will permit eligible workers to:
Work for a sponsor in a suitable occupation.
Join eligible dependents under the immigration regulations.
Apply for the extension of their visa as they continue to meet the required criteria.
Possibly qualify for settlement after meeting a specified qualifying period.
This category may represent a vital step for international students seeking to establish a career in the UK.
3. Can You Switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. Eligible persons may usually move from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa without having to leave the UK. You do not usually have to leave your home country for making an application for that visa.
But you will have to meet all the necessary criteria before applying for the visa. This usually includes having a qualified job offer, getting an employment sponsor, earning a minimum salary, and proving English language proficiency.
One should make an application before the expiry of one’s current Graduate Visa. One should also keep an eye on the immigration laws as they are subject to changes.
4. Key Eligibility Requirements
Prior to changing to the Skilled Worker Visa, graduates need to be aware of the following criteria.
A. Employment Offer from Accredited Employer
The candidate needs to get a legitimate offer of work from the UK employer who possesses a valid Skilled Worker sponsor license. All employers do not have the right to sponsor foreign nationals.
It is necessary to ensure whether the employer is an accredited one before accepting the offer.
B. Occupational Code
The occupation offered needs to be listed under the occupational code for which the Skilled Worker route is applicable. The position needs to qualify the corresponding level requirements.
Graduates should study their occupational code rather than depending on the job title alone.
C. Salary Criteria
The salary offered needs to satisfy the salary criteria as per the corresponding Skilled Worker route and the occupation, allowing for any tradeable-points concession.
There are some special salary concessions available for eligible candidates, including recent graduates. However, there are restrictions to be considered. It is always wise to know about the present salary requirement criteria before applying.
D. English Language Criterion
Applicants need to fulfill the English language criterion applicable to the application. A qualifying degree from the UK
5. Step-by-Step Process to Switch Your Visa
The process of switching from the Graduate Visa to the Skilled Worker Visa requires several steps.
Step 1: Look for a Suitable Job
Seek out positions that align with your qualifications and experience in terms of education. Pay attention to those employers that have a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence.
Step 2: Receive a Job Offer
When you successfully pass the recruitment procedure, your employer may present you with an appropriate sponsored job offer.
Step 3: Get Your Certificate of Sponsorship
A Certificate of Sponsorship will be allocated to you by your employer. Make sure that the data provided is correct.
Step 4: Gather Your Documents
Your passport, visa information, your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, salary and employment details, and English-language proficiency certificate, if needed, will be required from you.
Further documents may be requested according to your situation.
Step 5: Submit Your Online Application
Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa via the website of the UK government. You will have to pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, where necessary.
Step 6: Verify Your Identity
You may be required to undergo identity verification through the UK Immigration: ID Check app or have a biometric appointment, according
6. Important Documents Required
Making the necessary documents prior to submitting your application may assist in making the application process easier for you.
Some of the documents commonly needed are:
Valid passport/travel document.
Valid Graduate Visa details.
Reference number of Certificate of Sponsorship.
Occupation/job title code.
Details of salary and employment.
English language test score, if required.
Other supporting documents as per Home Office requirements.
Again, the specific documents vary based on individual situations and employment.
7. Benefits of Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa
There could be a number of benefits to switching from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa for those who qualify.
Long-term Career Prospects: You can continue building up your career with a sponsor employer in the UK.
Pathway to Settlement: The Skilled Worker visa may be part of the qualifying period for settlement. Requirements need to be met for this.
Professional Advancement: Employment as a sponsor allows you to acquire industry experience and specialized knowledge.
Family Prospects: Those who qualify may bring over qualifying family members, though there are some occupations/instances where this is not allowed.
Visa Extension Possibilities: There could be possibilities of extending your Skilled Worker Visa provided you fulfill the necessary requirements.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Graduates must be careful to avoid certain pitfalls while changing their visa category.
Taking up a job offer from an employer without first checking their sponsor license.
Believing that all jobs requiring graduate skills are eligible for sponsorship.
Overlooking the specific salary requirement for each profession.
Making an application once the Graduate Visa expires.
Furnishing inaccurate details in the application process.
Not checking the most recent immigration rules.
Thinking that once you get a job offer you will definitely get a visa.
9. Why Plan Your UK Career Transition Early?
Moving from being a student to working in the UK demands good planning. It is advisable for students to start looking for job opportunities even before finishing their coursework. Knowing how to secure sponsors, finding out what jobs are suitable for sponsorship, preparing your CV, and meeting employers would help.
It is also important to know when your visa will expire, so you have enough time to look for your employers and prepare the paperwork.
Conclusion
Getting your Skilled Worker Visa from a UK Graduate Visa can go a long way in helping you establish a great career within the United Kingdom. Even if you require an eligible job offer, employer sponsorship, and adherence to specific salary and immigration guidelines, the process of transitioning will be smoother if you are prepared for it.
Regardless of whether you are a new graduate or an international student planning for the future, getting to know about your UK visa options can be very important.
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