Are you currently working in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa and considering changing your employer?
You may be able to change jobs, but there are important immigration requirements you need to consider before making the move.
A Skilled Worker visa is connected to your sponsored employment. Therefore, changing your employer can involve more than simply accepting a new job offer.
Can I Change My Employer on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, it may be possible to change your employer while holding a Skilled Worker visa.
However, you will generally need to make the appropriate immigration application before moving to your new sponsored role.
Your circumstances can affect what you need to do, particularly if your new job has a different occupation code, salary or job duties.
✓ Your new employer may need to hold a valid UK Sponsor Licence
✓ You may need a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
✓ Your new role must meet the relevant Skilled Worker requirements
✓ You may need to update your visa before starting the new job
✓ Your immigration history and future ILR plans may also need to be considered
Because every case can be different, it is important to check your circumstances before resigning from your current employment.
What Should You Consider Before Changing Employers?
Changing employers can involve several immigration considerations.
For example, you may need to look at:
✓ Whether your new employer can sponsor you
✓ Whether your new job is eligible for sponsorship
✓ Whether the proposed salary meets the applicable requirements
✓ Whether your occupation code changes
✓ Whether you need a new CoS
✓ When you should make your visa application
✓ Whether the change could affect your future settlement plans
A mistake at this stage could potentially affect your immigration status or your ability to start your new role.
Can I Start My New Job Immediately?
Not necessarily.
Simply receiving a new job offer does not automatically give you permission to start working for a different employer under your existing Skilled Worker visa.
The timing of your visa application and your new employment is important.
Before resigning from your current job or agreeing to a start date with a new employer, it is advisable to check your immigration position.
What If My New Employer Has a Sponsor Licence?
Having a Sponsor Licence is an important part of the process, but it does not automatically mean that you can take up any job with that employer.
The job itself, salary, occupation code and sponsorship requirements may need to be assessed.
This is why a new job offer should be reviewed from an immigration perspective before you make a final decision.
Could Changing Employers Affect My ILR?
If you are planning to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the future, changing employers is something you should consider carefully.
Your qualifying period, continuous residence, employment and other settlement requirements may be relevant to your circumstances.
If you are already approaching ILR eligibility, obtaining professional advice before changing jobs can help you understand how the proposed change may affect your longer-term immigration plans.
What If My CoS Is Delayed?
A delayed Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) can create uncertainty when you are planning to change employers.
If your new employer is experiencing difficulties with sponsorship or CoS allocation, it is important to understand your options before making decisions about your current employment.
The right approach can depend on your individual circumstances, your current visa and your proposed new role.
Changing Employer? Get Your Immigration Position Checked
Changing employers on a Skilled Worker visa may be possible, but the correct process depends on your individual circumstances.
Before you resign, start a new role or make changes to your employment, professional immigration advice can help you understand the requirements that apply to you.
At Ace Immigration Services, we can assess your circumstances and advise you on matters relating to:
✓ Skilled Worker visa employer changes
✓ New Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
✓ Sponsor Licence matters
✓ Occupation code and salary requirements
✓ Skilled Worker visa applications and updates
✓ ILR and long-term immigration planning
Considering changing your employer in the UK?
Speak to Ace Immigration Services for professional guidance based on your circumstances.
Contact us today to discuss your Skilled Worker visa and employer change.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. UK immigration rules and requirements can change. Individual circumstances should be assessed before taking action.
