Graduate Route to Skilled Worker Visa UK 2026
What you need to know
- •You can switch to Skilled Worker from inside the UK.
- •Your employer must have a sponsor licence.
- •Switch early to start your 5-year ILR clock.
- •Graduate route time does not count toward Skilled Worker ILR.
The Graduate route does not lead to ILR, so switching to a Skilled Worker visa is essential for graduates who want permanent residence. This guide covers the requirements, timing, and process.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Why Switch?
The Graduate route gives you 2-3 years to work freely, but it does not lead to ILR. The Skilled Worker visa leads to ILR after 5 years, making it the natural next step for graduates who want to stay permanently.
Requirements to Switch
- Job offer. From a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence
- Certificate of Sponsorship. Your employer must assign you a CoS
- Salary. Must meet the minimum salary threshold
- Eligible occupation. The role must be on the eligible occupations list
- English language. Usually met through your UK degree
Full details in the Skilled Worker requirements guide.
Timing
Switch as soon as you can. Key timing points:
- You can switch at any time during your Graduate route
- Your 5-year ILR qualifying period starts from the date your Skilled Worker visa is granted
- Time on the Graduate route does not count
- Do not let your Graduate route expire before switching — apply in time
Application Process
- Find a job with a licensed sponsor — check the GOV.UK sponsor register
- Your employer assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship
- Apply online to switch to the Skilled Worker visa
- Pay the visa fee and IHS
- Provide biometrics (via the app or at a centre)
- Wait for a decision
Costs
See the Skilled Worker cost guide:
- Visa fee: from £719 (depending on duration)
- IHS: £1,035 per year
- Employer pays the Immigration Skills Charge
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
See the UK visa fees guide for the full picture.
For Employers
If you are an employer considering hiring a Graduate route holder:
- You need a sponsor licence
- See our employer guide to the Graduate visa
- The employee switches visa inside the UK — no gap in employment
After Switching
On the Skilled Worker visa, you work toward ILR after 5 years. You can bring dependants and eventually apply for British citizenship.
Alternatives
If you cannot find a sponsored role, consider:
- Global Talent visa (no sponsor needed)
- Self-employment visa options
- Ancestry visa (if eligible)
Next Steps
Start job searching for roles with licensed sponsors. Apply through GOV.UK.
Related guides:
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.