For international students in the UK, the Graduate Visa (commonly known as the PSW or Post-Study Work visa) is a fantastic bridge. It offers two to three years of freedom to work without the need for a sponsor. However, the Graduate Visa is a "one-time deal." It cannot be extended. To stay in the UK long-term and build a career, most graduates must eventually switch to the Skilled Worker Visa.
In 2026, the rules around this switch have tightened. Higher salary thresholds and new "New Entrant" criteria mean that early planning is more important than ever. At Tyndel Solicitors, we have helped hundreds of graduates transition from students to sponsored professionals. Here is what you need to know to make the switch successfully.
Why Switch? The Graduate Visa Deadline
The Graduate Visa is temporary. It does not count towards the 5-year route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). By switching to a Skilled Worker Visa, you:
- Start the Clock for Settlement: Your five years toward permanent residency begin the day your Skilled Worker Visa is granted.
- Gain Long-Term Security: You are no longer on a ticking clock; as long as you have a sponsor, you can stay.
- Access Full Employment Benefits: While the Graduate Visa allows any work, the Skilled Worker route formalizes your professional status with a licensed sponsor.
The 2026 Salary Challenge
The biggest hurdle in 2026 is the Salary Threshold. The Home Office has significantly increased the minimum salary required for sponsorship.
However, there is good news for those switching from a Graduate Visa: the "New Entrant" discount.
Understanding the "New Entrant" Rate
If you are switching directly from a Graduate (or Student) Visa, you may qualify as a "New Entrant." This allows your employer to pay you a lower salary than the standard threshold: typically 70% to 80% of the job's "going rate": for up to four years.
- The Catch: You can only be a "New Entrant" for a total of 4 years. This includes the time you already spent on your Graduate Visa. This makes the timing of your switch critical.
Key Requirements for the Switch
To successfully transition, you and your employer must meet several criteria:
- A Licensed Sponsor: Your employer must hold a valid Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence. If they don't have one, they must apply for it before they can hire you.
- A Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): This is a digital reference number your employer gives you. It confirms the job details, your salary, and that the role is eligible.
- The Skill Level: The job must be at a minimum skill level (usually RQF Level 3 or above).
- English Language: Since you have a UK degree (which you used for your Graduate Visa), you usually meet this requirement automatically.
Strategic Timing: When Should You Apply?
You don't have to wait until your Graduate Visa expires to switch. In fact, waiting until the last minute is a common mistake.
At Tyndel Solicitors, we recommend starting the conversation with your employer at least 6 months before your current visa ends. This allows time for:
- Sponsor Licence Applications: If your employer isn't already a sponsor, the process can take 8-12 weeks.
- Salary Negotiations: Ensuring your salary meets the "New Entrant" or standard threshold for your specific SOC code.
- Application Processing: While "priority service" is available, standard processing can take several weeks.
How Tyndel Solicitors Supports Graduates
Navigating a visa switch while trying to excel in a new job is stressful. Our immigration law team acts as the bridge between you and your employer's HR department. We provide:
- Eligibility Assessments: We confirm if your job role and salary meet the 2026 requirements.
- Employer Guidance: Many small to medium businesses want to keep their talented graduates but are intimidated by the "Sponsor" process. We can talk to your employer and manage the sponsorship process for them.
- Application Management: We handle the submission, ensuring all "New Entrant" boxes are checked correctly to avoid a refusal.
Take the Next Step
Your UK degree is a valuable asset, and the Skilled Worker Visa is the key to unlocking your long-term career in London or across the UK. Don't let your Graduate Visa expire without a plan.
Contact Tyndel Solicitors today to book a consultation. Let’s ensure your transition from graduate to professional is seamless.
