If as a student in the UK, you come across a tempting skilled work opportunity, it’s natural to consider switching your visa – even if you haven’t finished your studies yet.
The truth is that some career opportunities are simply too good to pass up, and when they come your way, you’ll feel compelled to seize them.
And why not? The UK does allow visa switches, even for students.
If you’ve been offered a job that requires you to transition from a student visa to a skilled worker visa before completing your studies, here’s what your chances look like.
Can I switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa without completing a degree course in the UK?
You can switch from a student visa to a Skilled Worker visa in the UK without completing your degree course if you meet the requirements for a skilled worker visa like getting a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship license.
In addition, the job must meet the required skill and salary thresholds, and the switch must also be made from within the UK.
Unlike in some countries (where you must complete your degree programs before taking a job), the UK’s immigration system is flexible.
You’re allowed to make some decisions as long as they are “in your best interest” and they’re not against your visa conditions.
The UK immigration structure recognizes the different ambitions and goals of students studying in the country.
You have the choice to handle your academic and career as you see fit – provided you do not go against your visa regulations.
Read also: How to write a scholarship application letter
Therefore, if you find an exciting job opportunity (one you don’t want to lose) during your studies and you wish to pause and transition to a worker, you can take the job.
For example, it is possible to switch from a (Tier 4 visa) to a skilled worker visa (formerly Tier 2 General).
In summary, while a switch is possible, you must:
- Get a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor.
- The job must meet the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above) and the minimum salary threshold
- Your employer must give you a valid Certificate of Sponsorship.
- And, you need to show that you can support yourself in the UK.
In addition, you must apply for the skilled worker visa before your current student visa expires.
How you can switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa without completing your degree course in the UK
According to the UK immigration guide, first:
Step 1: You get a job offer from a licensed sponsor
Search for job opportunities in your field of interest. If you already have a job offer, that’s great, but if you don’t have one, you need one.
Read also: How to fill out a UK student visa application form
Look for positions offered by UK employers who hold a valid sponsor license.
If you can’t find a prospective employer who has a sponsor license, then this won’t work for you.
A sponsor’s license allows employers to hire non-UK workers, and your sponsor will be the one sponsoring your visa application.
Step 2: Ensure the job offer meets the skilled work visa requirements
Not all job offer meets the requirements for a skilled worker visa.
Your job should be skilled at the right level.
Aside from that; the employer must offer you a salary that meets or exceeds the minimum salary threshold.
The minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is £38,700 per year – this amount can change in the future.
Exceptions exits:
- If the occupation falls under the UK’s Shortage Occupation List – the salary requirement can be lower.
- If you’re classified as a “new entrant,”, you’re exempted from this rule, meaning you can take a job offer for a reduced salary threshold.
- If you’re a PhD holder, you can benefit from a reduced salary threshold.
Finally, the job must come with conducive working conditions.
Step 3: Verify your English language proficiency
Though not compulsory (because you are already a student in the UK, meaning, you have already proven your proficiency in the English language).
Read also: How to convert a student visa to a work visa in Germany
But should there be a mix-up, ensure you have proof of your English language proficiency.
You can’t be employed as a skilled worker if you can’t speak or write in the English language.
Step 4: Assess your points score
Just like in countries like Canada, the UK immigration system works on a points-based approach, and you need to score a total of 70 points (or more) to be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa.
This particular step is important, you can’t do without it but there is good news.
Read also: 10 pros and cons of hosting a foreign exchange student
Your job offer itself contributes to the points.
With a job offer, you can make up points from other requirements.
- Job offer: 20 points (mandatory)
- Salary level: 20 points (mandatory, based on the offered salary)
- English language proficiency: 10 points (mandatory)
- Education qualification: Up to 20 points
- Job in a shortage occupation: 20 points
- Ph.D. in a relevant field: 10 points
If you meet the point threshold, you can apply for the visa.
Step 5: Your documents must be in order
To apply for a skilled worker visa, you need:
- A valid passport: Ensure your passport has enough validity to cover your intended stay in the UK.
- Your job offer letter: The offer letter must contain details about the job – your role, salary, and employment start date.
- Certificate of sponsorship (CoS): Get this from your employer.
- Proof of English Language proficiency
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (not compulsory)
These documents must be up-to-date, translated into English and meet the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) document guidelines.
Step 6: Apply to switch visasÂ
Application for a switch is done online and must be done while your current student visa is still valid
When applying, follow the guidelines set by the UK visa and immigration.
- Make sure you complete your application before submitting it.
- Avoid mistakes when filling out your form.
- And finally, do not submit wrong information.
Read also: Is an interview compulsory for a UK student visa?
After filling out the form, pay the application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee, (which gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS)) and submit your application.
Processing time takes between 3 to 8 weeks before a decision will be made by the UK visa and immigration authorities.
If your switch is successful, you’ll receive your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
On your BRP, you’ll find the duration of your visa, your permission to work in the UK, and other relevant details.
When issued your visa and BRP, you’re free to work in the UK.
Read also: As a foreign student can I return home or travel outside Canada while studying?
While on the job, ensure you comply with all your visa conditions.
Can I get a UK Skilled Worker visa without a degree?
You can get a UK skilled worker visa without a degree, however, you need a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer for a position at RQF Level 3 or above.
In addition, you must meet other skilled worker visa eligibility requirements like providing proof of funds, plus having a satisfactory level of English proficiency.
If you are currently studying and wish to transition to a skilled work visa, go for it!
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