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Immigration Rules on Switching

The Immigration Rules on Switching determine whether or not you can move to work permit employment without having to leave the UK. Those that do not qualify under Immigration Rules face a potentially long journey home to gain Entry Clearance as the work permit employer must file an out of country work permit application. To find out more about whether you qualify under the Immigration Rules on Switching and to find out about other UK work visas call Commonwealth Contractors now on 0800 294 4388 or Submit your details and we will get right back to you.

Working Holidaymakers

If you’re in the UK on a Working Holidaymaker Visa (WHV) you can only transfer to work permit employment without leaving the UK if you work in an occupation detailed on the Skill Shortage List (I.T. is not on the list). You must also have spent at least 12 months in the UK on the WHV before an application can be made.

For the vast majority of people holding WHVs this means travelling back home to gain Entry Clearance in order to return on a work permit.

To find out more about transferring to work permit employment call Commonwealth Contractors now on 0800 294 4388 or submit your details and we will get right back to you.

Tier 1 (HSMP)

Although it’s possible for a Tier 1 (HSMP) holder to transfer to work permit employment without leaving the UK the chances of someone actually wanting to do it are remote. Tier 1 (HSMPs) are less restrictive than work permits so there is little benefit to switching. The only exception may be where the Tier 1 (HSMP) holder is unable to qualify for an extension.

Student Visas

Someone holding a Student Visa may switch to work permit employment without leaving the UK only where they have graduated from the course for which the student visa was approved.

If you have been granted an extension to your Student Visa in order to undertake a second degree course you can only transfer to work permit employment in country once you have graduated from the second course. If you have received your results but not yet formally graduated you can use your Academic Transcript to prove the pass. This requirement is designed to make life more difficult for those people who come to the UK as students, but do not study.

Tier 1 (Post Study Work)

Formerly the International Graduate Scheme, the Tier 1 (Post Study Work) visa allows the holder to transfer to work permit employment at any time during the duration of the work visa. Tier 1 (Post Study Work) visas can be granted for 12 months to those who have completed a degree, or post-graduate certificates / diplomas (such as a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)) in the UK. Tier 1 (Post Study Work) visas are meant to allow those who have studied in the UK to transition to skilled employment.

For more Information on Switching to Work Permit employment call Commonwealth Contractors now on 0800 294 4388 or submit your details and we will get right back to you

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