Switching jobs within the UK
The Skilled Worker visa route enables non-UK/ Irish nationals to undertake a particular skilled role for the university. As the visa holder, you can change sponsor or jobs, although you will need to apply for a new period of leave. A Skilled Worker visa is granted by the Home Office when the worker meets all the Skilled Worker requirements.
Sponsorship is provided in line with the duration of the appointment. The university can provide initial sponsorship for up to 3 or 5 years. There is no limit to the time that can be spent sponsored under the Skilled Worker visa, but individuals may be eligible to apply to stay permanently after 5 years residence in the UK.
Certificate of Sponsorship
The University of Salford will issue Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to candidates once all checks are completed and the job's eligibility for sponsorship is confirmed. This request can only be made by HRAdvice.
It is possible in many circumstances to apply from within the UK ‘switch into’ the Skilled Worker route, provided certain conditions are met. The rules will largely depend on the type of visa the individual is looking to switch from.
Student visa holders, for example, must generally have completed their studies before they can switch to a Skilled Worker visa, unless the job starts after the course has been completed or they have been studying on a PhD course for at least 24 months.
Switchers must still meet all of the Skilled Worker eligibility requirements.
It is not possible to switch into the Skilled Worker category if an individual is currently in the UK with status under any of the following:
- Visit visa
- Short-term student visa
- Parent of a Child Student visa
- Seasonal worker visa
- Domestic worker in a private household visa
- Permission to stay outside the immigration rules