Congratulations on completing your degree in Manchester. The Graduate visa gives you two years (or three for PhD holders) to work, gain experience, and build your career in one of the UK's most exciting cities. But what happens when your Graduate visa is about to expire? For many international graduates living in Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, or Bolton, transitioning to a Skilled Worker visa is the natural next step. As specialist immigration solicitors in Manchester, MCR Solicitors helps graduates secure their long-term future in the UK.
When Should You Start Planning?
We recommend starting to plan your transition at least 6 months before your Graduate visa expires. This gives you time to:
- Find a sponsoring employer or discuss sponsorship with your current employer
- Gather the required documents
- Ensure the job meets the skill and salary requirements
Skilled Worker Visa Requirements for Graduates
To switch from a Graduate visa to a Skilled Worker visa, you need:
1. A Job Offer From a Licensed Sponsor
Your employer must hold a valid sponsor licence issued by the Home Office. Not all employers have one, so check before accepting a job offer. Our immigration lawyers can help you identify sponsoring employers in Manchester or assist your employer in obtaining a licence.
2. A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer assigns you a CoS, which is an electronic record of your job details, salary, and start date. This is required for your visa application.
3. Minimum Salary
The general threshold is £38,700 or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher. However, some occupations on the Immigration Salary List have reduced thresholds. New entrant rates may also apply if you are switching within a certain time after completing your course, which can reduce the threshold to £30,960.
4. Eligible Occupation
The job must be at RQF Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-level standard). Most graduate-level jobs qualify.
5. English Language
If you studied your degree in the UK, you may be exempt from the English language requirement.
Benefits of Switching to Skilled Worker
- Path to ILR — after 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain
- Bring dependants — your spouse and children can join you
- Change employers — you can switch to a different sponsoring employer
- No time limit on extensions — you can extend your Skilled Worker visa indefinitely
What If Your Employer Does Not Have a Sponsor Licence?
Many small and medium businesses in Manchester do not yet hold a sponsor licence. As one of the leading Manchester law firms for immigration, MCR Solicitors can help your employer apply for a sponsor licence. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks, so early planning is essential.
Alternative Routes After the Graduate Visa
If a Skilled Worker visa is not feasible, other options include:
- Innovator Founder visa — if you want to start your own business
- Global Talent visa — if you have exceptional abilities in tech, science, or arts
- Family visa — if your partner is British or settled in the UK
Contact MCR Solicitors
Do not let your Graduate visa expire without a plan. Contact our immigration solicitors in Manchester today for expert advice on your transition options. Call 0161 466 1280 or email [email protected]. We serve graduates across Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, Bolton, and all of Greater Manchester.
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