Switch from UK Student Visa to Work Visa After Graduation

Yes, you can switch from a UK student visa (Tier 4 or Student Route) to a work visa after graduation. Here are the main options and steps to follow:

Options for Switching from a UK Student Visa to a Work Visa

1. Graduate Route Visa:

o This visa allows international students who have completed a degree at a UK institution to stay in the UK for two years (three years for PhD graduates) to work or look for work at any skill level.

2. Skilled Worker Visa:

o This visa allows you to stay in the UK to work in a job that meets the minimum skill and salary requirements. You need a job offer from a licensed UK employer.

Steps to Switch to a Work Visa

Graduate Route Visa

1. Complete Your Degree:

o Ensure you complete your degree at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.

2. Apply Online:

o Apply for the Graduate Route visa online through the UK government website.

o You must apply while you are still in the UK and before your student visa expires.

3. Pay the Application Fee:

o Pay the visa application fee (£700 as of 2024) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£624 per year).

4. Submit Biometrics:

o If you haven’t already provided your biometric information for your student visa, you will need to do so for the Graduate Route visa.

5. Receive Your Decision:

o You will receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you will be granted a visa valid for two years (three years for PhD graduates).

Skilled Worker Visa

1. Obtain a Job Offer:

o Secure a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor license.

2. Check Job Requirements:

o Ensure the job meets the minimum skill level (RQF Level 3 or above) and salary threshold (£26,200 per year, £10.75 per hour, or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher).

3. Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):

o Your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with a unique reference number for your visa application.

4. Apply Online:

o Apply for the Skilled Worker visa online through the UK government website.

o You can apply from within the UK if you are switching from a student visa.

5. Pay the Application Fee:

o Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on your circumstances and the length of your stay.

o Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.

6. Submit Biometrics:

o Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point or using the UK Immigration: ID Check app.

7. Receive Your Decision:

o You will receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you will be granted a visa for up to five years, depending on the length of your employment contract.

Additional Tips

• Start Early: Begin looking for job opportunities and applying for work visas well before your student visa expires.

• Use University Resources: Many UK universities have career services that can help you find job opportunities and prepare for the application process.

• Maintain Compliance: Ensure you maintain your legal status in the UK throughout the process to avoid any complications with your visa application.

By following these steps and choosing the appropriate visa route, you can successfully switch from a UK student visa to a work visa after graduation.