For many visa holders living in the UK as dependants of skilled workers, students or other migrants, switching to an independent work visa can be a smart and empowering next step.
A Skilled Worker visa offers greater autonomy, full employment rights and a clear path toward settlement. But before making the transition, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements, documentation process and recent changes to the UK immigration rules.
In this article, we explain who can switch from a dependant visa to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK, what conditions must be met and how to approach the application process confidently.
Who can switch from a dependant visa?
If you’re already living in the UK on a valid dependant visa – for example, as the spouse or partner of a Skilled Worker, Student or Health and Care Worker – you may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker visa from inside the country. This is known as an in-country switch and is permitted under the current UK immigration rules.
Not all visa types allow switching from within the UK. For instance, if you are currently on a visitor visa, short-term student visa or seasonal worker visa, you must return to your home country and apply from abroad. However, PBS (Points-Based System) dependants generally have the right to switch in-country – provided they meet the criteria for the new route.
The key advantage of switching from a dependant visa is that you can become an independent visa holder, with your own work rights and immigration status, rather than relying on your partner’s.
Job offer requirements and sponsorship
To apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you must first secure a genuine job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsor licence. This employer will then issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a digital reference number containing key details about the role, salary and working conditions.
The job must be on the list of eligible occupations published by the Home Office. In most cases, it also needs to meet the minimum salary and skill threshold, which was updated in July 2025. These new rules require most jobs to be at RQF Level 6 or above (roughly equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree) and the salary must generally meet the new baseline of £38,700 per year or the going rate for the role – whichever is higher.
However, there are exceptions for new entrants, those under 26 and applicants in roles that remain on the shortage occupation list, although this list has been significantly reduced.
English language and other requirements
In addition to having a sponsored job offer, you’ll also need to prove your English language ability. This can usually be done in one of three ways:
- Passing a Home Office-approved English test at the required level
- Holding a degree taught in English (verified by ECCTIS)
- Being a national of a majority English-speaking country, such as the US, Canada or Australia
You’ll also need to show you have enough personal savings to support yourself – typically £1,270 – unless your employer is certifying maintenance on your behalf. The funds must be held in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before you apply.
When should you apply?
The best time to switch from a dependant visa to a Skilled Worker visa is while your current visa is still valid. Ideally, you should apply at least a few weeks before your dependant visa expires to allow time for processing. You do not need to leave the UK to apply – switching is permitted from within the country, as long as your existing visa type is eligible.
Related: Switching Visas Within the UK: What You Need to Know
Once you submit your application online and attend any required biometric appointment, you must wait for a decision before starting your new job – unless your current visa already permits work for your sponsoring employer.
It’s also important to plan for potential delays. Although many decisions are returned within 8 weeks, complex cases or missing documents can extend the timeframe. If speed is a concern, you may be able to pay for the priority or super-priority service, depending on availability.
How does switching affect settlement?
Switching from a dependant visa to a Skilled Worker visa means starting a new immigration pathway. Time spent as a dependant will not count towards the ten-year residence requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the Skilled Worker route. Instead, your new qualifying period for settlement will begin once your Skilled Worker visa is approved.
However, once granted, the Skilled Worker visa provides more independence and job flexibility than many dependant visas. It also allows you to bring your own dependants (such as a partner or children) with you as your visa route continues.
If you intend to remain in the UK long-term and pursue settlement, it’s important to factor in this timeline reset.
Do you need legal advice?
Switching visa categories may sound straightforward, but there are several common pitfalls – such as applying for a role that doesn’t meet the salary threshold, submitting the wrong documents or misunderstanding the timing. A rejected application can cause unnecessary stress and potentially jeopardise your right to remain in the UK.
At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors, our immigration team provides clear and tailored guidance to ensure your visa switch goes smoothly. We’ll review your job offer, check sponsor eligibility and help prepare your application to the highest standard.
We offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your situation and visa goals. Choose from offices in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus and Manchester, or speak to us remotely.
To book your consultation, contact us today via the form below, call 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected] to speak to one of our immigration solicitors. Whether you’re switching to a Skilled Worker visa or exploring other routes, we’re here to help.
