🔄 1. Visa Routes That Can Switch to the Skilled Worker Visa
The following categories can switch inside the UK, provided they meet all Skilled Worker requirements (job, salary, SOC code, English etc.):
✔️ Eligible to Switch
Student visa (Tier 4 / Student Route) – BUT ONLY if the course is completed or certain conditions are met (see this support article for guidance)
Graduate visa
Tier 2 (General) or previous Skilled Worker
Tier 5 / Temporary Worker routes, except seasonal workers
Global Talent (if choosing to move routes)
Start-up visa holders
Innovator Founder
Dependant visas (including dependants of Skilled Workers, Students, etc.)
UK Ancestry visa
Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS)
Overseas Domestic Worker visa (only in limited circumstances)
If unsure, we recommend checking:
Whether the visa explicitly states “No switching into work routes,” or
Whether the candidate has full right to work already.
🚫 2. Visa Routes That Cannot Switch to the Skilled Worker Visa
Some visas do not allow in-country switching. Candidates in these categories must leave the UK and apply from overseas instead.
❌ Not Eligible to Switch
Visitor visa / Standard visitor visa (tourism, business, family visits)
Short-term study visas
Seasonal Worker visa
Domestic Workers in a Private Household (in most cases)
Parent of a Child Student visa
Those on immigration bail
Candidates with an ARC (Application Registration Card) where asylum is not yet decided
Any visa that prohibits employment or switching
These individuals cannot submit a Skilled Worker application from inside the UK - they must apply from abroad once eligible.
🛂 3. Special Note: Asylum Seekers, Refugees & ARC Cards
This is one of the most misunderstood categories.
🟨 ARC Card Holders (Asylum Claim Pending)
Cannot switch to the Skilled Worker visa
They must wait for the Home Office to make a decision
Work permission depends on whether it is granted on their ARC
🟩 Individuals Granted Asylum or Refugee Status
Once asylum is granted:
They have full Right to Work
They do not need to apply for a Skilled Worker visa
Employers can hire them directly under their refugee status
They may still choose a Skilled Worker visa, but it is usually unnecessary
Employers should:
Ask for proof of status
Carry out standard Right to Work checks
🛑 4. Visa Types Where Switching Causes Common Confusion
Visa Type | Can They Switch? | Notes |
Visitor / Tourist | ❌ No | Must apply from overseas |
Short-term student | ❌ No | Not permitted to switch |
Graduate route | ✔️ Yes | Very common transition |
Student visa | ✔️ Sometimes | Must meet completion rules |
Dependant visas | ✔️ Yes | Straightforward route |
ARC Card | ❌ No | Asylum must be decided first |
Refugee status granted | ✔️ Already has RTW | Does not require Skilled Worker |
Seasonal worker | ❌ No | Must apply outside the UK |
Youth Mobility Scheme | ✔️ Yes | Popular switching route |
Start-up / Innovator Founder | ✔️ Yes | If requirements met |
💡 5. Employer Tips to Avoid Compliance Issues
🔍 Always confirm the candidate’s current visa type
Ask for their BRP/visa share code before offering sponsorship.
📅 Check any switching restrictions
Some visas allow work but do not allow switching.
🧾 If the candidate has refugee status, avoid unnecessary sponsorship
They already have:
Full Right to Work
No immigration restrictions on employment
🛫 For those who cannot switch, explain clearly
They must exit the UK and apply using a Defined CoS from overseas.
💬 Need help or an update? - Open the Support tab at the bottom right of your screen to contact our team directly.