New UK Visa rule: International students can now switch to UK Skilled Worker Visa before graduating.

• The new UK visa rules will create more opportunities and flexibility for international students. 
• Due to the changes, a degree is no longer required to apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.

Switching from student visa to skilled worker visa UK 

Recent changes in The United Kingdom’s Skilled Worker Visa rules will allow international students to switch to a skilled worker visa easily.

Previously it wasn't possible for a student to apply for a skilled worker visa without a college degree. This minimized the opportunities for students to enter the job market, despite being equipped with valuable skills.

As per the new rules, students wishing to apply for the skilled worker visa must grab a job offer from an employer validated by the Home Office. The interesting part is that they won’t have to complete their degree to acquire a skilled worker visa.

Now international students will be presented with more opportunities and flexibility. 

Headquartered in London, United Kingdom, The Home Office is a ministerial department of His Majesty's Government. It is responsible for immigration, security, and law and order

Who is eligible for Skilled Worker visa UK?

Apart from fitting the abovementioned requirement, one must 

• Must have a confirmed job offer before they apply for the visa.
• Have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from their employer with information about the role they have been offered in the UK
• Do a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations
• Be paid a minimum salary - how much depends on the type of work they do
• The specific eligibility depends on their job.

You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply.

How it will affect the UK

The net migration to the UK rose by 504,000 in the year ending June 2022 as per the data published by The UK Office for National Statistics. Most of them came from non-EU countries and continue to do so.

Approximately 1.1 million long-term immigrants came to the UK during this period. Not so surprisingly students make up a large portion of those. 

Last month, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared that he was considering taking drastic measures regarding net migration.

It is reported that Rishi Sunak might block international students from studying "low-quality degrees” and bringing dependents.

All in all, the UK Government is taking the necessary steps which will help attract international talent. 

As international students contribute to the workforce, it will promote innovation and help the country and its economy grow.