YMS to Skilled Worker Visa Switch 2026
What you need to know
- •You can switch from YMS to Skilled Worker from inside the UK.
- •You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
- •New entrant salary rates apply (lower threshold).
- •Time on YMS does not count towards ILR — the 5-year clock starts fresh.
- •Start looking for a sponsor at least 6 months before your YMS expires.
The Skilled Worker visa is the most common route for YMS holders who want to stay in the UK beyond 2 years. You can switch from inside the UK, benefit from new entrant salary rates, and start the path to settlement. This guide covers the process step by step.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Requirements for Switching
To switch from the YMS to a Skilled Worker visa, you need:
- A job offer from a licensed sponsor. The employer must hold a valid sponsor licence.
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Your employer issues this through the sponsorship management system.
- The right skill level. The job must be at RQF Level 3 or above (A-level equivalent or higher).
- The right salary. You must meet the minimum salary threshold. New entrants benefit from reduced rates.
- English language. You must meet the B1 English requirement.
Salary Requirements
As a new entrant switching from YMS, you benefit from reduced salary thresholds. The general minimum salary for new entrants is 70% of the going rate for the role, subject to a minimum floor. This is lower than the standard Skilled Worker threshold.
New entrant rates are available because you are switching from YMS before it expires. Check the specific going rate for your occupation code on GOV.UK.
Finding a Sponsor
Not all UK employers are licensed sponsors. To find one:
- Check the register of licensed sponsors on GOV.UK
- Look for jobs that explicitly mention visa sponsorship
- Consider larger employers, who are more likely to hold sponsor licences
- Talk to your current employer about getting a sponsor licence if they do not have one
For more on finding a sponsor, see our sponsor licence guide.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Timing Your Switch
- 6+ months before YMS expires: Start looking for sponsored jobs
- 3 months before: Secure your job offer and CoS
- Before YMS expires: Submit your Skilled Worker visa application
If you apply before your YMS expires, you remain on Section 3C leave while the application is processed. This means you can keep working for your sponsor.
Costs of Switching
- Skilled Worker visa fee: £719 (up to 3 years) or £1,420 (more than 3 years)
- IHS: £1,035 per year
- Some costs may be covered by your employer
See our UK visa fees guide for a full comparison.
Path to Settlement
Once on a Skilled Worker visa, you can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years. Time on YMS does not count towards this 5 years. After ILR, you can apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
Next Steps
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.