If you are on a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you may find that you want or need to change your sponsor. Whether you are seeking better career opportunities, a different working environment, or a more suitable role, the process of changing your sponsor is straightforward but does require careful attention to the rules and procedures. In this blog, we will guide you through the necessary steps for making this change while maintaining your visa status.
Understanding the UK Skilled Worker Visa
The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals from outside the UK to come and work in the country in a specific occupation. The visa is tied to a particular employer or sponsor, and that employer must be approved by the UK government to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). A CoS is essentially a confirmation from your employer that they are willing to sponsor you for the role.
However, situations may arise where you need to change your employer or sponsor for various reasons. Fortunately, you can do so, but it’s important to follow the official process to ensure that your visa remains valid and that you avoid any immigration issues.
Key Requirements for Changing Your Sponsor
- Ensure the New Employer is Approved to Sponsor Workers Before changing your sponsor, ensure that your new employer is a licensed sponsor. The employer must hold a valid sponsor license and be able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is crucial because without this, you will not be able to stay in the UK under your skilled worker visa.
- New Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Your new employer will need to assign a new Certificate of Sponsorship to you. The CoS details the job role, salary, and other important information related to your employment. It is essential to secure this certificate before making any changes.
- Make Sure Your New Job Meets the Visa Requirements When changing sponsors, your new job must still meet the required skill level and salary thresholds set by the UK Home Office. Your role must be at RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-Level) or above, and you must earn a minimum salary of £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, depending on the specific job and occupation code.
- Submit a New Visa Application Changing your sponsor involves submitting a new application for your UK Skilled Worker Visa. Once you have the CoS from your new employer, you will need to apply to the Home Office for a visa update or switch. This application will involve providing the CoS details, proof of your identity, and confirmation of your job role and salary.Keep in mind that this new visa application will be assessed just like your initial application, so ensure that all documents are in order. If you fail to submit the correct information or miss out on crucial details, your application could be delayed or refused.
- Wait for Approval Before Starting Your New Job You cannot start working for your new employer until the Home Office has approved your new visa application. Be sure to wait for your approval before making any transitions, as working for your new sponsor without approval can lead to serious consequences, including deportation.
- The Impact on Your Immigration Status Changing your sponsor can affect your immigration status, so it’s vital to remain in compliance with the Home Office’s guidelines. If your new employer does not provide the necessary documentation or fails to meet sponsor requirements, it could jeopardize your visa status and future applications. Additionally, keep an eye on your visa expiry date, as you may need to apply for an extension if your visa is nearing its expiration.
Alternative Visa Options
If you are considering changing your sponsor but are unsure whether the Skilled Worker Visa is the best option for you, there are other visa routes to consider, such as the Start-Up Visa. The Start-Up Visa is designed for entrepreneurs who want to establish a business in the UK and can offer an alternative to workers seeking new job opportunities.
Conclusion
Changing your sponsor while on a UK Skilled Worker Visa is entirely possible, provided you follow the correct process and meet all the necessary requirements. By securing a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and ensuring that your new job meets the Home Office’s criteria, you can continue to live and work in the UK under your new employer. Remember, always seek professional advice if you are uncertain about any aspect of your visa application.
For more detailed guidance and assistance in applying for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, or if you’re exploring options like the Start-Up Visa, get in touch with our team of experts at MRK Immigration.
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