Switching from a UK Graduate visa to Skilled Worker route is a crucial step for international graduates wanting to build long-term careers in the UK. With the 2025 immigration changes and new eVisa system, here's everything you need to know about making this transition successfully.
Processing Time
8 weeks standard
Total Cost
£3,932 (3 years)
Min Salary
£38,700
Eligibility Requirements for the Switch
Current Graduate Visa Holder
You must currently hold a valid Graduate visa or be eligible to extend it
Job Offer in Eligible Occupation
Secured employment in a role on the Skilled Worker occupation list
Salary Requirements
Job offer meets minimum salary thresholds (generally £38,700 or going rate)
Sponsor License
Employer must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor license
Need help with eligibility assessment? Our UK Immigration Guide includes detailed eligibility checkers and salary calculators.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Complete Application Process
Secure Eligible Job Offer
- • Find employer with Skilled Worker sponsor license
- • Confirm role is on skilled occupation list
- • Negotiate salary meeting minimum thresholds
- • Obtain written job offer with start date
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- • Employer assigns you a CoS reference number
- • Verify CoS details match your job offer
- • Check start date allows time for processing
- • Confirm your personal details are correct
Prepare Required Documents
- • Current passport and Graduate visa documentation
- • Certificate of Sponsorship reference
- • Academic qualifications (degree certificates)
- • English language evidence (usually exempt)
- • Financial evidence (usually exempt for switchers)
- • TB test certificate if required
Complete Online Application
- • Submit application on gov.uk before Graduate visa expires
- • Upload all required documents digitally
- • Pay visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
- • Book biometrics appointment (UK-based)
Attend Biometrics & Wait for Decision
- • Attend biometrics appointment at specified location
- • Continue work under Section 3C leave if Graduate visa expires
- • Monitor application status online
- • Receive decision within 8 weeks (standard processing)
Set Up eVisa Status
- • Access UKVI account to view new digital status
- • Download prove your status link for employers
- • Update employers with new immigration status
- • Set up eVisa app for offline access
Get the detailed step-by-step process for switching from Graduate to Skilled Worker visa, including document preparation, application submission, and eVisa setup.
⚠️ This is not legal advice. For individualized advice, consult a licensed professional.
Timeline and Costs Breakdown
Expected Timeline
Find employer with sponsor license
Employer assigns CoS
Online application and documents
UK-based appointment
Standard processing time
Cost Breakdown
UK Digital Immigration Status: eVisa Checklist for 2025
eVisa Setup Process
Employer Access Instructions
Detailed guide on how to generate share codes for employers, set access duration, and manage permissions for right to work checks.
Get step-by-step instructions for setting up your digital immigration status, sharing access with employers, and troubleshooting common eVisa issues.
⚠️ This is not legal advice. For individualized advice, consult a licensed professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Switch to Skilled Worker Status?
Get the complete guide with step-by-step instructions, document checklists, eVisa setup instructions, and expert tips for a successful application.