Overview
In many cases, you can switch to another visa from inside the UK, depending on your current visa
and eligibility.
One of the most common routes is switching from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa.
Not sure if you can switch your visa?
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Common visa switches
• Student → Graduate visa
• Student → Skilled Worker
• Graduate visa → Skilled Worker
• Other eligible visa routes
Basic requirements (Skilled Worker example)
• A job offer from a UK employer
• A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• Meeting the salary threshold
• English language requirement
When you cannot switch
You usually cannot switch if you are:
• On a visitor visa
• On a short-term visa
• In certain temporary categories
Applying under the wrong route can lead to refusal.
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Common mistakes
• Applying too late
• Not meeting salary requirements
• Choosing the wrong visa route
Get early access to support
Visa switching can be complex, especially with changing rules and requirements.
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• Understand your eligibility
• Explore your options clearly
• Be first to access legal support when needed
Switching Visas in the UK FAQs
Can I switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa in the UK?
Yes, you may be able to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK if you meet the eligibility requirements. This usually means having a qualifying job offer from a licensed UK sponsor, a Certificate of Sponsorship, meeting the salary threshold, and satisfying the English language requirement. You should apply before your current visa expires and avoid travelling outside the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man while waiting for a decision, as this can withdraw your application.
Can I switch from a Student visa to a Graduate visa?
Yes, you may be able to switch from a Student visa to a Graduate visa if you have successfully completed an eligible UK course and meet the Graduate visa requirements. A Graduate visa can give you time to stay in the UK after your studies and look for work, but it cannot be extended. If you want to stay longer, you may later need to switch to another route, such as Skilled Worker.
Which visas usually cannot be switched from inside the UK?
Some visa routes do not usually allow switching from inside the UK. For example, GOV.UK lists people on a visit visa, short-term student visa, seasonal worker visa, domestic worker in a private household visa, immigration bail, and some other categories as unable to switch into the Skilled Worker route from inside the UK. The rules depend on the route you are switching to, so always check the specific visa requirements before applying.
Do my dependants automatically switch visa when I switch?
No, your partner or children do not usually switch automatically when you change visa route. If they are eligible, they normally need to apply separately, either at the same time as you or before their current permission expires. This is important because dependants may have different document, fee and eligibility requirements.
What are the most common mistakes when switching visas in the UK?
Common mistakes include applying too late, choosing the wrong visa route, not meeting the salary or sponsorship requirements, assuming dependants switch automatically, travelling while an application is pending, or submitting incomplete documents. Before applying, check your current visa conditions, confirm the rules for the route you want to switch to, and make sure your documents match the requirements.