Discover how to switch from a UK Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa in 2026. Learn eligibility, sponsorship routes, high-demand job sectors, and how to apply step-by-step with real employer options.
The UK Graduate Visa was introduced to allow international students to remain in the UK for up to two years (or three for PhD graduates) after completing their studies. However, this visa is non-extendable and does not lead to settlement (ILR) directly. For many international graduates, the goal is to stay longer, build a career, and eventually apply for permanent residency.
That’s where the Graduate Visa to Work Visa pathway comes into play. In 2026, this transition has become even more streamlined as UK employers increasingly sponsor graduates under the Skilled Worker Visa route. This pathway offers not just longer stay and work opportunities but also a clear route to permanent settlement in the UK.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the 2026 process of switching from a Graduate Visa to a Work Visa, explain what jobs are eligible for sponsorship, and how to find an employer willing to sponsor your Skilled Worker Visa.
Key Highlights
- 🎓 Graduate Visa holders can switch anytime to a Skilled Worker Visa if offered a sponsored job.
- 📝 No need to leave the UK to apply — you can switch from within the country.
- 💼 Many sectors are actively recruiting international graduates with sponsorship options.
- 🛫 Skilled Worker Visa allows up to 5 years stay with a path to ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
- ✅ Visa processing typically takes 3 to 8 weeks once your application is submitted.
What is the Graduate Visa in the UK?
The UK Graduate Visa (also called the Post-Study Work visa) is for international students who have successfully completed a degree at a UK Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.
Key features:
- Valid for 2 years (3 years for PhD holders)
- No job offer required to apply
- Allows work at any skill level
- Cannot be extended
- Does not count toward ILR
Because of these limitations, many graduates aim to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa before their Graduate Visa expires.
What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. It allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UK in an eligible job with a licensed sponsor.
Benefits:
- Valid for up to 5 years
- Renewable and leads to ILR after 5 years
- Can bring dependents
- Minimum salary requirement applies
- Job must be on the eligible occupations list
To switch from the Graduate Visa, you must get a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visas.
Eligibility to Switch from Graduate to Work Visa
You can apply to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if:
- You are currently in the UK on a valid Graduate Visa
- You have a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- The job is on the Skilled Worker eligible occupation list
- You meet the salary threshold (typically £26,200/year or £10.75/hour, or lower if you’re under 26, in education or healthcare sectors)
- You meet the English language requirement (you already do as a Graduate Visa holder)
📍 Check licensed sponsors here: Register of Licensed Sponsors – Workers (UKGov)
In-Demand Jobs in 2026 Offering Visa Sponsorship
These industries actively sponsor Skilled Worker Visas for international graduates:
1. Health & Social Care
- Nurses
- Care workers
- Medical radiographers
- Paramedics
- Healthcare assistants
2. IT & Tech
- Software developers
- Cyber security analysts
- Data engineers
- Business analysts
3. Engineering
- Civil engineers
- Mechanical engineers
- Electrical engineers
- Design and development engineers
4. Education
- Secondary school teachers (maths, physics, computing, chemistry)
5. Hospitality & Food Industry
- Chefs
- Hotel managers
- Restaurant supervisors
📍 Full list of eligible jobs: UK Skilled Worker Visa Occupations
How to Switch from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Start Job Hunting Early
Begin searching for jobs 6–12 months before your Graduate Visa expires. Use platforms that highlight sponsorship options like:
Focus your search on employers listed in the Register of Licensed Sponsors.
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer with Sponsorship
Once you receive a job offer:
- Confirm the employer is a licensed sponsor
- Ensure the job title and salary meet the Skilled Worker visa requirements
- The employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa
After receiving your CoS, apply online for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Documents required:
- Current passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Job title and salary
- Proof of English language (already satisfied via Graduate Visa)
- Tuberculosis test (for certain nationalities)
- Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
💳 Visa fees:
- Up to 3 years: £719
- More than 3 years: £1,420
- Healthcare surcharge: £1,035/year
Apply here: UK Skilled Worker Visa Application
Step 4: Biometric Appointment
Book and attend your appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. Upload documents and biometrics.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Processing time is 3 to 8 weeks. You can stay in the UK while waiting for a decision.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Sponsorship
- Tailor your CV to each job and make it UK-style (2 pages, clear headings, bullet points)
- Include a strong cover letter showing interest in staying long-term
- Highlight your right to switch from Graduate to Work Visa
- Be open to starting in regional cities or less competitive industries
- Use LinkedIn to connect directly with recruiters from licensed sponsors
Real Employers Sponsoring International Graduates
Here are UK-based companies and institutions known to sponsor Skilled Worker Visas:
- NHS (National Health Service) – Healthcare roles
- Amazon UK – Logistics, IT, operations
- PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY – Finance and consulting roles
- Teach First – Education and teaching positions
- Capgemini – Software, tech roles
- Morrisons & Tesco – Retail and logistics
Always confirm with the company directly and check their license on the sponsor register.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (ILR)
After 5 continuous years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you:
- Have not spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
- Have passed the Life in the UK Test
- Continue working with your sponsor or in an eligible job
This pathway is not possible on the Graduate Visa alone, making the switch essential if your long-term plan is to settle in the UK.
Conclusion
The Graduate Visa to Work Visa pathway is not just a backup plan—it’s a strategic career move for international graduates who want to build a future in the UK. While the Graduate Visa gives you time to gain experience and adjust to the UK job market, the Skilled Worker Visa opens the door to long-term residence, career stability, and even British citizenship down the road.
If you’re currently on a Graduate Visa, don’t wait until the last moment. Start your job hunt early, target sponsors, polish your CV, and take the first step toward a successful career and life in the UK.
👉 The opportunity is here. Take it before your Graduate Visa expires. Your future in the UK starts now.
FAQs
1. Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa inside the UK?
Yes, you can switch from within the UK without leaving the country. You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor and a Certificate of Sponsorship.
2. How early can I switch to the Skilled Worker Visa?
You can switch anytime during your Graduate Visa period once you secure a qualifying job offer with sponsorship.
3. Is there a minimum salary requirement for the Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. Generally, it’s £26,200/year or £10.75/hour. Exceptions apply for younger workers, shortage roles, and new graduates.
4. Does time spent on a Graduate Visa count toward ILR?
No. Only time spent on a Skilled Worker Visa or other settlement routes count toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
5. What happens if my Graduate Visa expires before I switch?
You must either switch before your visa expires or leave the UK. Overstaying your visa can impact future immigration applications.
