Switching from a Spouse Visa to a Work Visa

Last updated: 17 July 2024

Individuals in the UK on a Spouse Visa have an unrestricted right to work, but you may be able switch from a Spouse Visa to a Work Visa, such as Skilled Worker Visa, if you meet the requirements. The process typically involves applying for a new visa category that suits your employment situation. There are several types of UK work visas and work permits that a Spouse Visa can switch to, such as:

• Skilled worker visa
• Scale up visa
• Innovator Founder visa
• High potential individual visa
• Health and Care Worker visa

Spouse visa to work visa requirements

Depending on the work visa you are applying to, there are different requirements to meet. We are using Skilled Worker visa as an example here. In order to switch from a Spouse Visa to a Skilled Worker visa, you need to meet requirements as following:

• Have a job offer from a UK employer
• Your employer must be on the list of licenced sponsors approved by the Home Office
• Your employer must have issued you with a valid “Certificate of Sponsorship”
• The job for which you are being employed must be on the list of eligible occupations
• You must meet the skill level requirement: at least equivalent to RQF level 3
• You must meet the minimum salary requirements: £38,700 per year or your job’s going rate, whichever is higher
• You must meet the English language requirements
• You must have £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK

How to switch from a spouse visa to a skilled worker visa

The process of switching from a spouse visa to a skilled worker visa as follows:

1. Check your eligibility
2. Secure a Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor license.
3. Get Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for your role so you can proceed with the application
4. Prepare Documentation: such as: passport and current visa, Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, proof of English language proficiency, proof of meeting the financial requirements, etc. (this is not a exhaustive list. The required documents vary depending on your situation)
5. Complete the online application form and pay the application fee, biometric fee, and healthcare surcharge.
6. Upload any documents required
7. Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.

How can Reiss Edwards help?

Reiss Edwards is a leading immigration solicitor based in Central London. We can handle all aspects of switching from a spouse visa to a work visa, including

• Checking your eligibility to switch from a spouse visa to a work visa.
• Handle your application on your behalf.
• Handle the refusal of an application.