Switching from a Skilled Worker to Spouse visa is a logical next step for many professionals in the UK. Maybe you moved to the UK for work and found love along the way. Or immigrated with a partner who’s recently gained British citizenship, opening the door for you to do the same.
Every love story has its own path. But everyone needs to tick the same Home Office legal boxes when switching from a Skilled Worker to Spouse visa. Read on for more information on this important topic.
Skilled Worker vs Spouse visa
What’s the difference between the two? The Skilled Worker visa allows you to live and work in the UK under sponsorship from an approved employer. The Spouse visa is based on family connection. Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, it’s not tied to a specific job or employer. This means you’re free to work, study or take time off, without affecting your visa status.
Why switch from Skilled Worker to Spouse visa?
The Skilled Worker visa is a great way to kick-start your career in the UK. But it does come with strings attached. Your immigration status hinges on your employment with a specific company. This can make the Skilled Worker visa feel restrictive.
Enter the Spouse visa. It’s an appealing alternative if you’re ready to settle down with a partner who has British citizenship or is permanently settled in the UK. With an approved Spouse visa you can live and work freely in the UK without depending on a single job or employer.
Spouse visa eligibility
The Spouse visa is available to partners of British citizens or settled persons. For many it’s a meaningful step toward long-term stability in the UK. Plus, it sets you on a clear pathway to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the country. This is great news if your ultimate goal is British citizenship.
Eligibility requirements
You’ll need to meet specific criteria set by the Home Office when switching from a Skilled Worker to Spouse visa.
- Your partner must either be a British citizen or hold settled status in the UK.
- You’ll need to prove your relationship is legally recognised and genuine.
- Financial stability is another key requirement. You and your partner must. have a combined annual income of at least £18,600. This amount increases if you have dependent children.
- Some applicants will need to pass a recognised English language test.
Working towards your ILR? Any time you’ve spent in the UK on your Skilled Worker visa counts toward the five-year residency requirement for ILR.
How the application process works
Planning on switching from a Skilled Worker to Spouse visa? You’ll need to apply online, submit your documents and provide evidence of your relationship, finances and residence history in the UK.
Key documents include:
- Proof of relationship. A marriage or civil partnership certificate, or evidence of cohabitation for at least two years if you’re unmarried.
- Financial documentation. Recent bank statements, payslips or proof of self-employment to meet the financial threshold.
- Proof of English proficiency. Documents showing you meet the English language requirement, unless you’re eligible for an exemption.
Preparing these documents well in advance can save you time and minimise stress during the application process. If approved, the Spouse visa will be granted for 30 months. There’s the option to renew and apply for indefinite leave to remain down the line.
Potential challenges and how to handle them
Switching from Skilled Worker to Spouse visa isn’t without its challenges. Below are a few things to keep in mind:
- Meeting the financial requirement can be tough, especially if you have a variable income. To meet it via savings, the full amount of £62,500 must be held for at least six months before applying, not merely used as a “gap filler.”
- Timing is another factor. It’s best to apply before your Skilled Worker visa expires to avoid any lapses in your right to live and work in the UK. Processing times for Spouse visas can often take several weeks, so apply as early as possible.
Fasttrack your transition with Osbourne Pinner
Partnering with an immigration solicitor can be incredibly helpful when switching from Skilled Worker to Spouse visa. An expert can help assess your eligibility, gather documents and identify any weak spots before you submit your application.
Ready to take the next step in your immigration journey? Reach out to Osbourne Pinner for professional immigration guidance. You can book a free 30-minute consultation, with no obligation to proceed. Simply fill in our form below, call 0203 983 5080 or email us at [email protected].
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