Can I Switch My Employee from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Employers in the UK often hire international graduates who bring unique skills and global perspectives to their businesses. However, a Graduate Visa is temporary and does not lead to settlement. If you want to retain your talent, switching your employee from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa could be the best solution. In this guide, we’ll explain the process, requirements, and benefits for employers.

Understanding the Graduate Visa and Skilled Worker Visa

The Graduate Visa allows international students to stay in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after completing an eligible course. While it is great for short-term employment, it cannot be extended or switched into another visa within the UK, except for certain routes such as the Skilled Worker Visa. This means employers who want to keep graduates beyond their Graduate Visa period need to sponsor them for a Skilled Worker Visa.



Why Switch from Graduate to Skilled Worker Visa?

A Skilled Worker Visa offers long-term employment rights and a pathway to settlement in the UK. It enables employers to retain skilled professionals and reduces the need for frequent recruitment. For the employee, it ensures job security and career progression. With over 278,000 Skilled Worker visas granted in the year ending March 2023, it remains one of the most popular immigration routes for skilled talent.

Can You Switch in the UK?

Yes, employees on a Graduate Visa can apply to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa without leaving the UK, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The employer must hold a valid Sponsor Licence to hire and sponsor the graduate. If your business does not yet have one, you will need sponsor licence assistance to get started.

Eligibility for the Employee

  • Must have a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK sponsor

  • The role should be eligible under Skilled Worker visa rules

  • Minimum salary requirements must be met (usually £26,200 per year or £23,040 if the job is on the shortage occupation list)

  • The graduate must apply before their current visa expires

Steps for Employers to Switch a Graduate to a Skilled Worker Visa

Switching visa UK processes can seem complex, but with the right guidance, it’s manageable. Here’s how employers can proceed:

1. Check Sponsor Licence Status

Before you can hire or retain an overseas graduate, you must hold a valid Sponsor Licence. If you do not have one, you can apply for one with help from corporate immigration advisors such as UK Visas. This process usually takes 8 weeks, but priority options may speed it up.

2. Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once you have a licence, you need to assign a CoS to the employee. This confirms that you are offering them an eligible role and sponsoring their Skilled Worker Visa application.

3. Employee Applies for the Visa

Your graduate must submit their application online, pay the relevant fee, and provide biometric details. They must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. UKVI usually processes applications within 8 weeks.

4. Ensure Compliance

As an employer, you are responsible for meeting compliance duties under your sponsor licence. This includes record-keeping and reporting any changes related to your sponsored employee.

Hiring Foreign Graduates in the UK – Why It Matters

Many UK businesses are facing skill shortages, making hiring foreign graduates UK a strategic move for growth. By sponsoring migrant workers and offering Skilled Worker Visas, you not only retain top talent but also gain a competitive edge. In fact, recent data shows that 45% of UK businesses hiring international talent have improved productivity and innovation.

How UK Visas Can Help

If you need help with skilled worker visa application for employee or guidance on switching visa UK, our experienced team offers corporate immigration assistance to make the process seamless. We also support employers with sponsor licence assistance, compliance advice, and all documentation requirements.

Final Notes

Switching your employee from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa is not just possible – it’s a smart way to secure skilled talent for your business. With the right guidance and compliance, you can retain valuable employees and strengthen your workforce for the future.

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