Popular Questions for international students looking to switch to a work visa (Mar/Apr 2024 updates included)
Q: How can you transition from a student visa to a skilled worker visa?
Answer: To switch visas, you need a job offer from a licensed employer. The employer provides you with a certificate of sponsorship, and then you apply for the skilled worker visa, with a deadline of three months before your course ends.
Q: How long does the visa application process take?
Answer: First, your employer assigns the Certificate of Sponsorship (COS), confirming your status. Then, you apply online, pay fees, and complete biometrics. This process can start three months before your course end date.
Q: Is it realistic for international students to get a skilled worker visa in 2024?
Answer: It's challenging due to rising salary requirements. However, the "new entrant route" offers some flexibility, especially for graduate jobs that may not meet the salary threshold.
Q: Can you explain the new entrant route and its salary thresholds?
Answer: The new entrant route requires a salary above certain criteria. Typically, salaries for new entrants are in the mid £20,000s, with a four-year window to qualify.
Q: Is there an age limit for the new entrant route?
Answer: No, there isn't. Several categories determine eligibility, such as being under 26 or undergoing professional training.
Q: When can we expect updates on these immigration policies?
Answer: Communication from the government has been lacking. We hope for clarity soon, especially with significant changes coming in April.
Q: What are the costs of sponsorship for employers and applicants?
Answer: Employers pay for a sponsorship license and the immigration skills charge, while employees cover visa and health charges.
Q: How long is sponsorship, and who decides the duration?
Answer: Employers decide sponsorship duration, typically three years.
Q: Why are some employers reluctant to sponsor international students despite the relatively low costs?
Answer: Liability concerns and other risks may deter employers, but the costs are manageable, especially for larger companies.
Q: What can a job seeker do to persuade employers to consider sponsorship during interviews?
Answer: Break down the costs, understand the process, and emphasize the benefits for the employer. Transparency and value creation is key. Employers tend to worry about their problems so as long as you can demonstrate that you can ease this burden for them. Most employers despise employee turnover, making a case around how sponsored workers tend to stay for longer.
Q: Can you explain the "golden period" for sponsorship?
Answer: The golden period allows you to switch visas without the employer paying the immigration skills charge, benefiting both parties.
Q: What happens if an international job seeker loses their job in the UK?
Answer: The employer notifies the home office, and you receive a grace period to find new employment. Once the Home Office reaches out they tend to give 60 days for this.
