- Introduction
- Eligibility Criteria for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
- Step-by-Step Process for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
- Costs Breakdown for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
- Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
- How Can Work Permit Cloud Help?
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Introduction
The UK’s Graduate Visa also known as the Post-Study Work visa (PSW) allows international students who have completed a degree at a British university to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years where the application is made before 1 January 2027, or 18 months where it is made on or after that date (or three years for PhD graduates). While this visa offers flexibility—permitting work at any skill level without employer sponsorship—it is non-extendable and does not lead directly to settlement.
For graduates seeking long-term career prospects in the UK, switching to a Skilled Worker Visa is often the most viable route. Unlike the Graduate Visa, this visa provides a five-year pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided the applicant meets salary and employment criteria. Employers also benefit from retaining skilled talent without time constraints.
This guide is designed for:
✔ Graduates exploring visa options beyond their current leave.
✔ Employers considering sponsorship for existing Graduate Visa holders.
✔ HR professionals navigating compliance and recruitment processes.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
a. For Employees
To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must:
● Hold a valid job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer with a Sponsor Licence.
● Meet the salary threshold:
○ £41,700 per year (standard requirement) or the "going rate" for the role (whichever is higher).
○ Lower thresholds apply (at least £33,400: 70% to 90% of the going rate) for:
■ Recent graduates (within 2 years of holding a Student/Graduate Visa).
■ Applicants under 26, in professional training, or with STEM PhDs.
■ Roles on the Immigration Salary List.
● Prove English proficiency (B2 level) via a test or UK degree.
● Show maintenance funds (£1,270) if residing in the UK for under 12 months (unless sponsored by the employer).
b. For Employers
Sponsoring a Graduate Visa holder requires:
● A valid Sponsor Licence with an A-rating (if not already held).
● A genuine vacancy at RQF Level 6 (graduate level), unless the job is on the Immigration Salary List or the Temporary Shortage List.
● Compliance with Home Office reporting duties, including salary verification and right-to-work checks.
We have a Guide to Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Updates 2025 blog for more details >>
3. Step-by-Step Process for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
Step 1: Employer Obtains a Sponsor Licence (If Required)
● Application: Submitted online with supporting documents (e.g., proof of business legitimacy, HR systems).
● Fees: £611 (small/charitable sponsors) or £1,682 (medium/large sponsors).
● Processing: Typically 8 weeks, though priority services may expedite decisions.
● Compliance: UKVI may conduct audits to verify adherence to sponsorship duties.
Step 2: Employee Receives a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
● The employer assigns a CoS (£525 fee) via the Sponsorship Management System (SMS), detailing the job role, salary, and duration.
● The CoS reference number is required for the visa application.
Step 3: Employee Applies for the Skilled Worker Visa
● Application: Submitted online with the CoS, proof of English, and financial evidence (if applicable).
● Fees: Ranges from £628 to £1,865 when applying from inside the UK, plus the Immigration healthcare Surcharge (£1,035/year).
● Processing: Most decisions are made within 8 weeks (standard service).
● Biometrics: Applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UKVCAS) centre (if not using the ID Check app).
Key Considerations
● Timing: Apply before the Graduate Visa expires (no extension permitted).
● Dependents: Partners/children must apply separately to switch visas.
● Salary Flexibility: Employers should confirm if roles qualify for reduced thresholds (e.g., STEM PhD discounts). A new entrant grant cannot take combined time as a Skilled Worker, Graduate and Tier 2 migrant over 4 years, so someone who has used 2 years on the Graduate route can get at most 2 more years at the new entrant rate.
4. Costs Breakdown for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
a. For Employers:
● Sponsor Licence Fee: The cost for obtaining a sponsor licence ranges from £611 to £1,682, depending on the size of the employer.
● Immigration Skills Charge: Employers must also pay an Immigration Skills Charge of £480 or £1,320 for the first 12 months, then £240 or £660 for each further 6 months, depending on the size of the business.
b. For Employees:
● Visa Application Fee: The visa fee ranges from £628 to £1,865 when applying from inside the UK, depending on the type and duration of the visa.
● Healthcare Surcharge: Employees will need to pay £1,035 per year for healthcare access through the NHS.
● Biometrics Fee: There is no fee for this in the UK. You attend an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UKVCAS) centre or a Service and Support Centre (SSC) to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph), or you use the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
5. Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them for Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
● Delays in Sponsor Licence Approval: Applying well in advance is key to avoid delays in the sponsor licence approval process.
● Salary Threshold Confusion: Employers and employees must ensure the job meets the correct SOC code and the going rate for the job to avoid salary issues.
● Document Errors: It's crucial to double-check all financial evidence and CoS details to ensure the application is not delayed or rejected.
6. How Can Work Permit Cloud Help?
For Employers:
● Fast-track Sponsor Licence Applications: Work Permit Cloud can assist with Sponsor Licence Applications to ensure timely processing.
● Compliance Audits & HR System Setup: We offer an HR Compliance system to ensure adherence to Home Office regulations.
For Employees:
● End-to-End Visa Application Support: We provide comprehensive Skilled Worker Visa support from start to finish.
● Legal Guidance on Salary/English Requirements: Our legal team ensures employees meet all salary and English proficiency requirements.
Need help with your visa switch? Contact Work Permit Cloud today!
7. Conclusion
Switching from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa opens doors to long-term career opportunities in the UK. While the process involves strict eligibility criteria, costs, and compliance steps, proper planning and expert guidance can streamline your transition.
Whether you're an employer securing a Sponsor Licence or a graduate navigating visa requirements, Work Permit Cloud simplifies the journey—ensuring compliance, minimising delays, and maximising success.
Time on the Graduate route does not count towards the five years for settlement, so the settlement clock starts when your Skilled Worker permission begins. For the application itself, read our guidance on Skilled Worker: Apply, Switch and Extend.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch for tailored support.
