Since the update of the Points-Based-System (PBS) in 2020 it opened the opportunity to switch more visa categories to in-country switching.

Switching can be complex and it is important to get it right. Switching of various categories has eased but others continue to be difficult. However, be aware that applying to switch your visa under a category where switching is not allowed from within UK will result to a mandatory refusal.

You cannot switch from the following visas:

• Short-term Student
• Visitor
• Parent of a Child Student
• Seasonal Worker
• Domestic Worker

You can switch from the following visas:

Family Visa

The family visa category covers children, parents, partners, and dependant relatives. Switching is possible and an example would be – An applicant entering the UK as a parent or partner could secure an extension of the marriage breaks down if a child is involved and there is an ongoing relationship. It may be also possible to secure permission to stay based on private life rather than family life if the private life requirement is met.

Economic Categories

The economic visa category covers investors, students and skilled works.

For most economic routes, it is possible to switch from any visa with a few exceptions if you are able to meet all other requirements for the particular visa you want. Switching to the Investor route is only possible in-country if you are currently here on a Skilled Worker, Entrepreneur, or Student visa.

The cooling off period was abolished and therefore this allows Intra Company transferees to switch into the Skilled Worker route from inside the UK. This may well give individuals a potential route to settlement if they wished to remain in the UK.

Individuals here on a student visa may also switch to other economic categories such as Skilled Worker. The new Graduate route, which went live in July 2021, also offers students the prospect to continue their stay in the UK and to work post-studying. You must apply to this route from inside the UK, however, it does not lead to settlement.

T2 and T5 Ministers of Religion

It has become easier for individuals to switch into the T2 Minister of Religion category. Inexperienced religious workers may well secure entry clearance as T5 Religious Workers and then switch into the T2 Minister of Religion category from inside the UK. However, you must be in a key leading role

Click this link to find out more about Williams Allan's Tier 2 Minister of Religion Services

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Useful Information from the UK Government

Click this link to read the current advice given from the UK Government itself:

Skilled Worker: Switch to this Visa

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