Switching visas within the UK allows individuals with a valid immigration status to change to a different visa category without needing to leave the country. This flexibility can be beneficial in a range of scenarios, such as changing from study to work, or from a temporary to a settlement route. In this post, we discuss the process of switching visas in the UK, restrictions and common visa-switching pathways.
What Is Visa Switching?
Visa switching refers to the process of applying to change your immigration category from within the UK, without needing to leave the country. This involves seeking leave to remain under a different visa type while still lawfully present in the UK on an existing visa.
However, not all visa categories permit switching. If your current immigration status does not qualify for an in-country switch under the UK Immigration Rules, any application you make to change your status may be automatically refused. In such cases, the rules require you to leave the UK and apply for Entry Clearance from abroad under the new visa category.
Who Can Switch Visas Within the UK
The ability to switch depends entirely on the specific visa types involved, the applicant’s current immigration status, and strict Home Office requirements. You may apply to switch to a different visa type from within the UK if:
- You hold a valid, unexpired visa
- The immigration rules allow switching from your current category to the one you wish to apply under
- You are not on immigration bail or outside the immigration rules
- You meet the eligibility criteria for the visa you are switching into
- You have complied with the conditions of your current visa
Each application must be made before your current visa expires, and you must remain in the UK (including the Common Travel Area) until a decision is made.
Visa Categories That Cannot Be Switched From
Certain UK visa types do not permit switching from within the UK. If you hold any of the following visas, you must leave the UK and apply from abroad:
- Standard Visitor Visa
- Short-Term Student Visa
- Parent of a Child Student Visa
- Seasonal Worker Visa
- Domestic Worker in a Private Household Visa
You are also not eligible to switch if you are currently:
- On immigration bail
- Holding leave outside the immigration rules (e.g. discretionary leave on compassionate grounds)
Attempting to switch from a restricted category will result in an automatic refusal.
Dependants and Switching Visas
Dependants (partners or children) can switch visa status within the UK, provided they apply before their current leave expires. They must submit separate applications, either at the same time as the main applicant or later. All standard requirements for the dependant visa must be met, including relationship evidence and financial maintenance thresholds where applicable.
Travel Restrictions During Visa Switching Process
Once your application to switch visas is submitted, you must not travel outside the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until a decision is made. Travelling outside this area will result in the application being treated as withdrawn.
Common Visa Switching Scenarios
At Whytecroft Ford, we regularly assist with visa switches across a wide range of immigration routes. Some of the most common include:
- Student visa to Skilled Worker visa
- Graduate visa to Work visa
- Fiancé visa to Spouse visa
- Tier 2 Dependant to Tier 4 Student visa
- Skilled Worker to Innovator or Start-Up visa
- Spouse visa to Work visa
- Dependant visa to Student visa
Each route has its own eligibility criteria. It is crucial to confirm that your current visa allows switching and that you meet the requirements of the visa you wish to obtain.
At Whytecroft Ford, we assist with a wide range of UK visa switch applications, including less common routes not listed above. To discuss your specific circumstances with an experienced immigration adviser, call us on 0208 757 5751, or complete our enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch.
Switching to a Student Visa
Applicants in the UK on a work, family, or dependant visa may switch to a Student visa if they receive an unconditional offer from a licensed education provider. Additional requirements include:
- Meeting the financial maintenance requirement, if in the UK for less than 12 months
- Proof of English language proficiency (CEFR Level B2 for degree level or higher, B1 for below degree level)
- Valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the sponsoring institution.
Switching to a Work Visa
A significant number of in-country switches are made to UK work visas, particularly the Skilled Worker visa. Key requirements include:
- A confirmed job offer from a licenced UK sponsor
- Meeting the salary threshold
- Proving English language ability
Certain specialist work visas, such as the Global Talent and High Potential Individual (HPI) visas, allow switching without a job offer. These require either endorsement by an approved body (Global Talent) or proof of qualification from a top global university (HPI).
Switching to a Family Visa
Foreign nationals in the UK often switch to a Family visa if they have a partner who is a British citizen or settled person. Requirements include:
- Proof of a genuine relationship
- Meeting the financial threshold (£29,000 per year)
- Meeting the English language requirement
Switches from work or study routes to a partner visa are common and must be carefully prepared to meet all Home Office criteria.
Switching to a Dependant Visa
If your spouse or partner holds a substantive visa (e.g., Skilled Worker, Student, Business), you may be able to switch to a Dependant visa from within the UK. To qualify, you must:
- Be married, in a civil partnership, or have cohabited for at least 2 years
- Show you can be maintained in the UK.
Not all visa types allow dependants, so legal advice should be sought before applying.
How to Switch a Visa Within the UK
Switching to a new visa category from inside the UK involves a structured application process that must be followed carefully to avoid refusal or delay. While the exact requirements vary depending on the visa type you are applying for, most applicants will need to complete the following general steps:
1. Confirm Eligibility
Before starting your application, verify that your current visa permits switching and that you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa you intend to apply for. This includes reviewing requirements around your immigration history, financial status, English language ability, and whether your current visa category allows in-country applications for the new status.
2. Prepare Supporting Documents
You will need to gather all relevant documents to support your application. These typically include your passport, evidence of immigration status, and documents that prove you meet the requirements for the visa you’re switching to. For example, a Certificate of Sponsorship for a work visa, or a marriage certificate for a spouse visa.
3. Submit the Online Application
Applications to switch visas must be completed online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal. Each visa route has a specific form designated for in-country switching, so it is essential to select the correct one. During the process, you will be guided to upload your documents and provide details about your current immigration status and future plans in the UK.
4. Pay the Application Fees and IHS
Once your application form is completed, you will be directed to pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The total cost depends on the visa category and the duration of leave you are applying for. These payments must be made online at the time of submission.
5. Provide Biometric Information
After submitting your application, you will receive instructions to book an appointment at a UKVCAS service point to provide your fingerprints and photograph. Some applicants may also be required to bring original documents to their appointment. Attendance at this appointment is mandatory and must be completed within the timeframe set out in your application confirmation.
6. Await the Home Office Decision
Once biometrics have been provided and your application is complete, the Home Office will begin processing your request. Standard processing times are usually up to eight weeks, although certain visa categories may take longer. If available, you may be able to pay for Priority or Super Priority services for a faster decision.
7. Receive Your Visa Decision and eVisa
You will be notified of the decision by email or post, and if successful, you will receive a confirmation of your new immigration status and length of leave in the form of an eVisa.
Given the complexity of the visa switching process and the serious consequences of errors or omissions, it is strongly recommended to seek professional legal advice to ensure your application is accurate and complete.
How Whytecroft Ford Can Help
Switching visas in the UK is a technical process that requires precision and legal knowledge. At Whytecroft Ford, our experienced team can assist with:
- Confirming your eligibility to switch
- Preparing and submitting your application
- Advising on supporting documents
- Managing communication with the Home Office
We provide tailored advice to suit your circumstances and ensure your application is compliant and complete. To speak with our experienced team, call +44 208 757 5751 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.
