Can I get a UK Skilled Worker Visa after studying in the UK?

Yes, you can get a UK Skilled Worker Visa after studying in UK if you have a valid job offer from a licensed sponsoring employer, meet the skills and salary requirements, and must apply before your current visa expires. You must submit your application and provide supporting documents online, such as the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number and proof of salary.

 

Requirements to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa for Graduates:

• A valid job offer
• The job must meet the required skill level, typically equivalent to A-level (RQF level 3) or graduate level (RQF level 6) and above, depending on current visa requirements
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Minimum salary threshold of £41,700
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Personal and Identity documents
• Medical and Police clearance certificates (if required)

Planning to apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa? Get expert advice on Y-axis Immigration Cosultancy.

 

What is the percentage of international students switching to Work Visas in the UK?

After Brexit, more international students started getting UK work visas. In 2022, about 18% (around 97,000 students) switched to work visas within a year after arriving. About 10% of them got Skilled Worker Visas within 1–2 years. In recent years, the UK has continued to provide strong career opportunities for international graduates through both the Graduate Visa and the Skilled Worker Visa, helping many students start their professional journey and settle in the UK.

Steps to switch from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa

Step 1: Get a course completion certificate from a recognized UK university under a valid Student or Graduate Visa.

Step 2: Secure a full-time job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office, holding a valid sponsor license, and providing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

Step 3: Make sure the job offer meets the minimum salary requirement, usually £41,700 per year.

Step 4: Gather all documents checklist (a valid passport, Certificate of Sponsorship, job offer letter, educational certificates, proof of English proficiency, bank statements (if applicable), and current visa or BRP card).

Step 5: Submit an online application for the Skilled Worker Visa through the official UK Government website before the Graduate Visa expires. Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Step 6: Complete identity verification either through a biometric appointment or by using the UK Immigration ID Check app.

Step 7: Once approved, the Skilled Worker Visa is issued, allowing full-time living and employment in the UK. After five years of continuous stay, eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can be obtained.

Want to work in the UK? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.

 

Skilled Worker Visa to ILR Pathway

International students who start working in the UK after graduation can move from the Skilled Worker Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This pathway allows long-term settlement in the UK. After five years of continuous work under the Skilled Worker Visa, applicants can apply for ILR, which provides permanent residency benefits such as living, working, and studying in the UK without time limits. This pathway is one of the most common ways for international graduates to build a stable career and future in the UK.

*Interested in UK Immigration? Talk to Y-Axis the, the world’s No.1 Overseas Immigration Company, for end-to-end support.