Switching from UK Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa in 2025
Everything employers need to know to help their potential hires switch from the Graduate Visa to the Skilled Worker Visa under the current visa rules
19 March 2025
With growing pressure on UK businesses to fill critical skills gaps—particularly in sectors like tech, engineering, and healthcare—employers are increasingly turning to international graduates already in the UK. These individuals, often on a Graduate Visa, represent a valuable opportunity for long-term recruitment.
By helping a recent graduate switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, your company can retain top talent, avoid the delays of overseas hiring, and simplify compliance under the UK’s sponsorship system.
This guide for 2025 explains how the employers can support international graduates in making the switch. We also dive into recent immigration changes mean for salary thresholds and sponsorship requirements, and how to ensure a smooth transition from temporary post-study work to long-term employment under the Skilled Worker route.
What Is a Graduate Visa?
The UK Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed an eligible UK degree to stay for:
- 2 years (Bachelor’s or Master’s)
- 3 years (PhD or Doctoral qualifications)
Note: It is non-renewable and does not count toward settlement.
Can You Switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. You can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa at any time before your Graduate Visa expires. Many employers prefer hiring Graduate Visa holders due to ease of onboarding.
2025 Skilled Worker Visa Changes: What’s New?
2025 has brought a handful of changes to UK immigration policy that will impact those switching between visa types. Here are the headline changes:
1. Increased Salary Thresholds
From April 2024, implemented fully in 2025:
- Minimum salary: £38,700/year or £15.88/hour
- New entrants (including some Graduate Visa holders): may qualify for a lower threshold depending on job role
2. Immigration Salary List (ISL)
The Shortage Occupation List has been replaced by the Immigration Salary List. Fewer roles now qualify for salary discounts – check if your job is included.
3. Dependant Rules
Graduate Visa holders cannot bring new dependants unless they were already listed on a prior Student Visa. However, Skilled Worker Visa holders, other than care workers, can bring dependants.
Eligibility for Switching Visas in 2025
To make the switch from a graduate visa to Skilled Worker visa, you will need:
- Job offer from a Skilled Worker sponsor
- Role meets the required skill level (RQF Level 3+)
- Salary meets minimum threshold or new entrant discount
- Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Meets English language requirement
- Apply before Graduate Visa expires
Step-by-Step: How to Switch Visas
- Secure a job offer from a UK sponsor
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Check salary requirements (standard or discounted)
- Apply online to switch visa types
- Await decision (average 8 weeks)
Applicants can stay and work in the UK while your application is pending.
How Employers Can Support Graduates Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa
Employers play a crucial role in helping international graduates move from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa. Supporting this transition helps your company take on the brightest and best young talent in a competitive job market.
Here are the key ways you can support a potential hire in making the switch:
1. Become a Licensed Sponsor
To employ someone under the Skilled Worker route, your company must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence. If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to apply via the UK Home Office. The application typically takes 8–10 weeks, though faster processing may be available for an additional fee.
Need help? Centuro Global supports companies with fast-tracked sponsor licence applications and compliance guidance. Get in touch to find out how
2. Offer a Role That Meets Salary and Skill Requirements
Ensure the job role meets the minimum skill level (RQF Level 3 or above) and salary threshold. As of 2025, this is generally £38,700, unless the candidate qualifies as a new entrant or the role is on the Immigration Salary List (formerly Shortage Occupation List).
You’ll also need to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the role.
3. Clearly Communicate the Process and Timeline
Many graduates are unfamiliar with the sponsorship process. Offer clarity on what the company will provide (e.g., CoS, legal support, visa fee contributions) and what the graduate needs to submit.
Transparency helps reduce stress for the applicant and speeds up the process.
4. Support with Application Logistics
While the visa application is the candidate’s responsibility, you can help by:
- Reimbursing visa-related costs (optional but appreciated)
- Providing HR letters or evidence needed for the application
- Liaising with legal or immigration advisors on their behalf
5. Ensure Continued Right to Work Checks
Once the graduate applies to switch visas, they can usually continue working under the terms of their Graduate Visa until a decision is made. However, it’s important to carry out the correct Right to Work checks at each stage to remain compliant.
Settlement: Pathway from Skilled Worker Visa to ILR
Time spent on a Skilled Worker Visa counts toward settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), while time on a Graduate Visa does not.
After five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided other criteria are met.
FAQs About Switching from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
How long does it take to sponsor a graduate switching to a Skilled Worker visa?
If your company is already a licensed sponsor, the visa application process typically takes around 8 weeks. If you need to apply for a sponsor licence first, allow an additional 8–10 weeks, unless you pay for priority processing.
Can a graduate start working before the Skilled Worker visa is granted?
Yes. As long as they’re still on a valid Graduate Visa, they can continue working under its conditions while waiting for a decision on their Skilled Worker application. However, once the Skilled Worker Visa is approved, they must switch to the new terms and employer.
Do we have to pay the visa fees for the graduate?
You’re not legally required to pay their visa fees, but many employers choose to cover some or all of the costs as part of their talent retention strategy. You are, however, responsible for paying the Immigration Skills Charge (usually £364–£1,000 per year, depending on company size).
Can we sponsor a graduate for a part-time role?
Generally, no. Skilled Worker roles must meet the full-time salary threshold (pro-rated part-time roles usually don’t meet the requirements). Some exceptions apply in healthcare and education, but most roles must be at least 30 hours per week.
Can applicants apply from within the UK?
Yes. Switching from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa can be done from within the UK.
Do applicants need a new visa if they change jobs?
Yes. A Skilled Worker Visa is tied to employers. A new CoS and visa application will be needed for a job change.
Does the Graduate Visa count toward ILR?
No. Only the Skilled Worker Visa duration counts toward the five-year settlement path.
Need Support Making the Transition?
Centuro Global can support your new hire’s journey from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa by helping you and your employer navigate sponsorship, compliance, and application paperwork.
→ Contact us to speak with one of our UK immigration experts.
Download our full guide to UK immigration rules in 2025 to keep your knowledge current
