If you’re a student in the UK and looking to stay and work after you graduate, switching to a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is a great option The Skilled Worker visa allows you to work in the UK for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extending your visa or applying for settlement This article will guide you through the process of switching your visa from student to Skilled Worker Tier 2.
Before we start, it’s important to note that you can only switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you have a job offer from a UK employer who is willing to sponsor your application The UK employer must also have a valid Sponsor License from the Home Office.
Step 1: Find a job
The first step in switching your visa is finding a job You can search for jobs on various job websites such as Indeed, Monster, and Reed You can also look for jobs on the company’s website directly.
When searching for jobs, make sure to look for jobs in occupations that are eligible for a Skilled Worker visa The job must be at RQF level 3 or above (equivalent to A-level), and the occupation must be on the eligible occupation list The list includes a wide range of occupations, including engineers, IT professionals, teachers, doctors, and more.
Step 2: Check if your potential employer has a Sponsor License
After you have found a job, you will need to check if your potential employer has a valid Sponsor License You can ask the employer directly or check on the Home Office website.
If your potential employer doesn’t have a Sponsor License, they will need to apply for one The application process can take a few weeks, so make sure to start the process as soon as possible.
Step 3: Check if the job pays enough
One of the requirements for a Skilled Worker visa is that the job pays enough The minimum salary requirement is either the minimum salary for the occupation or £25,600, whichever is higher I am a student and want to switch visa to Skilled worker Tier 2. Some occupations have a different minimum salary requirement, so make sure to check the eligible occupation list.
If the job pays less than the minimum salary requirement, the employer may still be able to sponsor your visa if they can prove that the job is in a shortage occupation or that you have a relevant PhD.
Step 4: Apply for the visa
Once you have a job offer and the employer has a valid Sponsor License, you can apply for the Skilled Worker visa You can apply up to 3 months before the start date of your job, and you should get a decision within 3 weeks.
The application process involves filling out an online form and providing supporting documents such as your passport, job offer letter, and proof of your English language proficiency You will also need to pay a fee of £610 or £1,220, depending on the length of your visa and if you are applying from outside the UK or inside the UK.
Step 5: Attend biometric appointment and collect BRP
Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, you will need to attend a biometric appointment The appointment involves having your fingerprints and photograph taken, and you will need to bring your passport and a copy of your application.
After attending the biometric appointment, you should receive a decision within 3 weeks If your application is successful, you will be issued a visa vignette in your passport, which allows you to enter the UK.
Within 10 days of arriving in the UK, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a local Post Office Your BRP will contain your visa information, including the length of your visa, your employer’s name, and your job title.
Conclusion:
Switching from a student visa to a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is a great way to stay and work in the UK after you graduate The process involves finding a job, checking if your employer has a valid Sponsor License, meeting the minimum salary requirement, applying for the visa, attending a biometric appointment, and collecting your BRP.
It’s important to start the process as early as possible, as it can take several weeks or even months to find a job and for your employer to obtain a Sponsor License Make sure to also check the eligible occupation list and salary requirements before applying for the visa.
Whether you’re looking to start a career in the UK or gain valuable work experience, the Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is a great option for international students in the UK Take the first step today and start searching for jobs that match your skills and qualifications With determination and the right resources, you can successfully switch your visa and start a new chapter in your career.