As a student in the UK, you have had the opportunity to explore a new country, make friends, and gain a world-class education But what happens when your studies are complete and you are eager to begin a career in the UK? The answer lies in switching your visa to a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa.
The Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is the main route for skilled workers to come to the UK to work for an approved employer It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 and is designed to simplify the previous system, making it easier for employers to sponsor non-UK workers If you are a non-UK resident who is already in the UK on a Student Tier 4 visa, switching to a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is an option worth considering.
To make the switch, there are a few things you will need to consider Firstly, you will need to secure a job offer from an approved employer who holds a valid Tier 2 Sponsor Licence The employer will then assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) that you will need for your visa application It`s important to remember that there is a limit on the number of CoS`s that can be assigned each year, so securing a job offer early is key.
Once you have secured your job offer and CoS, you will then need to pass the points-based system The Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is scored based on a set of points that assess your job offer, English language skills, and available funds To be eligible, you will need to score a total of 70 points or more Here`s how the points are calculated:
1 Job offer from an approved employer: 20 points
To score points for this category, you must have a job offer from an employer who holds a valid Tier 2 Sponsor Licence and has assigned you a Certificate of Sponsorship.
2 Job at an appropriate skill level: 20 points
Your job must be at the required skill level, which is set at RQF 3 (equivalent to A-level) or above.
3 English language skills: 10 points
You will need to prove that you can speak, read, write, and understand English at the appropriate level I am a student and want to switch visa to Skilled worker Tier 2. This can be done by taking an approved English language test.
4 Available funds: 10 points
You will need to prove that you have enough funds to support yourself in the UK The amount required varies depending on your circumstances.
5 Shortage occupation: 20 points
If your job is on the UK`s Shortage Occupation List, you will automatically score 20 points in this category.
It`s important to note that the points-based system can be complex, and it`s recommended that you seek professional advice when making your application.
Once you have passed the points-based system, you can then apply for your Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa There are a few different routes you can take at this stage, depending on your circumstances If you are already in the UK on a Student Tier 4 visa, you can apply from within the UK If you are outside of the UK, you can apply for a Skilled Worker visa from your home country.
The application process involves completing an online application, providing biometric information (fingerprints and photograph), and attending a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit your documents You will also need to pay a fee for your visa application, which varies depending on your circumstances.
Once your application has been processed, you will be notified of the decision If your application is successful, you will be granted a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa and will be able to start working for your approved employer.
In summary, switching your visa from a Student Tier 4 to a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa is a great way to begin your career in the UK after your studies However, it`s important to remember that securing a job offer early and understanding the points-based system are key to a successful application Seek professional advice if necessary, and give yourself plenty of time to make your application Good luck!