Switching from a Student visa to the Skilled Worker visa

Can you switch in the UK?

You can usually apply to switch to the Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK if you are already here on most visa types, including the Student visa. You apply online, pay the fee and the immigration health surcharge, and prove your identity. You cannot switch if you are in the UK on a visitor visa or certain short-term routes — check the GOV.UK switching rules for your situation.

When students can start the job

There are specific rules on when a Student visa holder can switch and begin Skilled Worker employment — generally once you have completed your course, or earlier in limited circumstances. The Certificate of Sponsorship start date and your course completion date both matter, so confirm the timing with your sponsor and check the current GOV.UK guidance.

You still need a licensed sponsor

Switching does not change the core requirement: you need a job offer from an employer on the Home Office register of licensed sponsors, who assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship for an eligible occupation. A licence means an employer can sponsor — never that they will sponsor a given role — so confirm sponsorship for the specific job. Use our free sponsor licence checker to verify the employer, and browse our live sponsored roles.

Salary, English and other requirements

You must meet the salary requirement for your occupation (the higher of the general threshold and the occupation's going rate, with lower figures in some cases such as new entrants) and the English language requirement. The exact salary figure depends on your occupation code and circumstances — see our sponsored-salary guide, and always check GOV.UK for your role.