switch visit visa uk

How to switch visa within the UK?

If you are already lawfully in the UK, you may be able to switch from your current visa category to a difference visa category from inside the UK.

Switching immigration categories from inside the UK is not always straightforward. Certain routes allow you to stay in the UK under the Immigration Rules by switching visa categories, while others do not.

In this blog post, we will explore the rules and applications in which you can and cannot switch visas in the UK, and into which categories. If you would like to speak to an expert about your specific circumstances, call the specialist immigration lawyers at Deluxe Law Chambers at 01614644140 .

Which visa types cannot be switched?

You can not switch to another visa within the UK if you currently hold one of the following visa types:

• short-term student visa
• parent of a child student visa
• seasonal worker visa
• domestic worker visa

Visa Switching: What Is It?

Switching is the process by which you can switch from one visa to another within the UK. Your application for a variation of permission to remain may not be granted if the Immigration Rules do not permit you to change your visa status from one visa category to another. To switch from one visa category to another from within the UK, it is crucial to understand the changeover requirements.

Our expert team of immigration lawyers can provide legal help and assistance with switching from one visa category to the other from inside the UK. For certain applications, we can also provide  Super Priority Service  for switching visas from inside the UK.

How to switch a visa within the UK? Step-by-Step Guide to Switching Visas

This is the step by step guide to switch visas within the UK.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before initiating the visa switching process, it is important to assess whether you meet the eligibility criteria for your desired visa category. If you have any doubts, consulting with an immigration lawyer is an important step.

Step 2: Collect Required Documents

Gathering the necessary documents is a pivotal step. Commonly required documents include:

• Passport and visa-related documentation
• Proof of financial stability
• Academic or employment records
• English language proficiency certificates
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Each visa category has a specific application form that must be completed accurately. Ensuring error-free submissions is crucial to prevent delays or rejections.

Step 4: Biometric Enrollment

Certain visa categories necessitate biometric enrollment, which includes fingerprinting and photographing. This step is crucial, and appointments must be scheduled in advance.

Step 5: Waiting Period

After submitting your application, there is a waiting period during which the authorities assess your case. This duration can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Step 6: Visa Approval

Upon approval, you will receive a decision letter from the Home Office for your visa switching within the UK.

Switching to a student visa within UK

You can switch to a student visa within the UK from following visas:

• Skilled Worker visa to a student visa
• Family visa to a student visa
• Dependant family member visa to a student visa

To make a successful application to switch to a student visa, you must have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with an educational establishment with a valid sponsor licence (e.g. school, college, or university).

You must meet all other requirements under Appendix student of immigration rules.

Switching to a skilled worker visa within UK

On 17 July 2023, the Home Office published new changes in UK immigration rules known as statement of changes regarding student visa and skilled worker visa and their dependants.

To  switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa , you must meet one of the following conditions A, B or C on the date of application:

Condition A:  the applicant must have completed the course of student for which the CAS letter was assigned;  OR

Condition B:  the applicant must be studying a full-time course of study at degree level with a higher education provider which has a track record of compliance  and  the certificate of sponsorship start date must not be earlier than the course completion date;  OR

Condition C:  the applicant must be studying a full-time course of study study leading to the award of PhD with a higher education provider which has a track record of compliance  and  the certificate of sponsorship start date must not be earlier than 24 months after the start date of the course.

You maybe able to switch into different work visas within the UK.

Switching into family visa of a British citizen/settled person

It is also extremely common for foreign nationals to switch to a family visa if their partner is a British citizen or a person who has settled in the UK, including those switching from work, student, or business visa. To switch to a spouse/partner visa under the family visa scheme, you will need to prove that:

• You are married, or in a civil partnership with a British or Irish citizen, or a person who has settled here (e.g. indefinite leave to remain), or if not married, you have been in a relationship for 2 or more years
• Meet the English language requirement (CEFR level A1)
• You and your partner have an annual income of £18,600 or more (plus an additional £3,800 a year if you have one child and a further £2,400 a year for each child after your first child)

Switching to a dependant visa in the UK

You may decide to switch to a dependant family member visa if your partner is a foreign national and they have a substantive visa to remain in the UK (e.g. work, business, or student visa). Examples of this type of visa switch include switching from a:

• Student visa to a dependant visa
• Skilled Worker visa to a dependant visa

How long can it take to switch a visa within UK?

The application processing time to switch your visa within the UK will depend on the type of visa you are switching to. In most cases, you can expect to receive a decision within 8 to 12 weeks of your biometrics.

Why choose Deluxe Law Chambers?

Choosing the right and best immigration lawyer for your immigration needs can be stressful. While it could seem like a difficult choice, let us simplify things for you. Here are a few good reasons why you should choose Deluxe Law Chambers to assist you with your UK visas and immigration matters.

Our commitment to affordability means that you can receive expert advice without straining your finances. Our success hinges on transparency. We believe in keeping you informed about every step of the process, ensuring that you understand your options and the potential outcomes.

• REGULATED – We are regulated and approved immigration lawyers by The Office Of The Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC).
• EXPERIENCE – Our firm rests on specialist immigration lawyers and solicitors with years of experience. Our well-earned experience distinguishes us from others.
• EXPERTISE – As your immigration lawyer, we offer unparalleled expertise. We don’t just understand and interpret the law, we keep an eye on the slightest changes.
• AUTHORITY – Our authority isn’t just about legal powers but is gained through genuine care and successful outcomes for our clientele. So, why choose just a lawyer when you can choose a trusted authority?
• TRUST – Our commitment to uphold your trust is unwavering. Our transparency and ethical conduct are treatments for the trust placed in us by our clients.
• DIRECT ACCESS – At Deluxe Law Chambers as your immigration lawyers, you will have direct access to your qualified lawyer 24/7.
• AFFORDABLE – We are a law firm with an affordable and fixed fee plan. We offer two installments to ensure you can pay easily.

A combination of our rich experience, deep-rooted expertise, trust authority, and unwavering commitment to our clients makes us your best choice.

So, why wait? Take your first step towards a successful immigration application with us.

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UK Visitor Visa

UK visitor visa is also known as a UK tourist visa, which allows foreign nationals to visit the UK for a short period of up to 6 months.

Contact our immigration lawyers for a free telephone consultation on 020 3744 2797 or complete our enquiry form to discuss your UK spouse visa.

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The UK visitor visa, also known as a standard visitor visa or UK tourist visa, allows foreign nationals to visit the UK as a tourist, for business, for study, and for other permitted activities for a short period of up to 6 months.

Before applying, we recommend checking if you require a visiting visa to the UK; this can be done on the Home Office website . Depending on your nationality, you may be able to come to the UK for up to 6 months without a visa.

To secure a UK Visit visa, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, for example, you must genuinely intend to leave the UK at the end of your stay, and you have enough money to cover the duration of your visit.

There are several types of UK Visit Visa catering for a range of purposes, including the Business Visitor Visa, Family Visitor Visa, Marriage Visitor Visa , General Visitor Visa, Permitted Paid Engagement Visa, and the Chinese Tour Group Visa.

What can and cannot do with a visitor visa

As a Visitor Visa holder, you are permitted to carry out the following activities for up to 6 months in the UK:

• Tourism (e.g., holiday or vacation)
• Get married (assuming you intend to live in another country once you are married)
• Visit family or friends
• Volunteer for a registered charity in the UK for up to a maximum of 30 days
• Transit through the UK to another country
• Carry out certain business activities (e.g., a meeting or interview)
• A school exchange program
• Recreational courses of up to a maximum of 30 days
• Study (courses should not exceed 6 months)
• Complete a placement
• Take an exam
• In your role as an academic, senior doctor, or dentist
• Receive medical treatment

As a holder of a Visitor Visa UK, you will not be able to:

• Do paid or unpaid work
• Access public funds (e.g., benefits)
• Live here by making frequent successive visits
• Get married or enter into a civil partnership, give notice of marriage, or a civil partnership (you must have a Marriage Visitor visa in any of these cases).

UK visitor visa requirements

To make a successful UK Visitor Visa application, applicants must meet the following general eligibility requirements 1 :

• You must genuinely intend to depart the UK at the end of your visit
• You must have sufficient funds to support yourself while in the UK
• You can fund your onward journey, and
• You will not live in the UK by making successive visits using a Visitor Visa.

You may also need to meet other eligibility requirements if you are coming to the UK to study, complete a placement or take an exam, or as an academic, senior doctor or dentist, or for medical treatment. You can contact our immigration lawyers for a free consultation if you want to apply for a UK visitor visa.

Genuine intention to leave the UK

The Home Office will assess your genuine intentions to visit, including your reasons for coming, your prior immigration history, the number and duration of previous visits, your personal and economic ties to your home country, and other factors.

Sufficient support funds

The Home Office does not specify a set amount of money you must have as a visitor to the UK. They will assess the likely cost of your stay (e.g., accommodation, food, travel) and compare this to the amount of funds you have available. They will also consider your existing financial commitments to determine if you are likely to have sufficient funds for your stay here.

Intention not to live in the UK

The Home Office will want to be assured that you are not using the Visitor Visa route as a way of living in the UK by making successive visits. They will check your travel history, the reason for your visit, the length of your intended stay, the number of visits to the UK over the past 12 months (including the length of stay on each occasion), and the time since your last visit, and whether you have spent more time in the UK than in your home country.

Documents required for UK visitor visa

The required documents will depend on the reasons for coming to the UK. You might be asked to provide the below documents:

• Your travel dates to and from the UK
• Your address while in the UK
• A breakdown of the estimated cost of your visit
• Your home address
• How live you have lived at your current address
• The name and dates of birth of your parents
• Your annual income
• Details of any criminal, civil, or immigration offenses
• Your travel history for the past 10 years
• Your employer’s address and telephone number
• Your partner’s name, date of birth, and passport number
• The details of family members you have in the UK
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate if you’re visiting for more than 6 months (depending on the country you are traveling from).

How to apply for a visitor visa for UK

To apply for a UK Visitor Visa, you will need to complete the following key steps:

• Check if you need a Visitor visa before proceeding
• Complete and submit a visitor visa application UK online (note: If you are coming to the UK with your family members, each family member will need to submit their own application and pay the required fee)
• Pay the application fee
• Book an appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC)
• Attend your VAC appointment to provide any documents required by the Home Office and have your photo taken and fingerprints scanned (biometrics)

In most cases, you can expect to receive a decision on your Visitor Visa application within 3 weeks.

Can you extend your visitor visa?

The UK Visitor visa is only intended to allow a short stay, however, it may be possible to extend your Visitor visa if it was issued for less than 6 months up to the maximum of 6 months. It will only be possible to extend your Visitor visa beyond 6 months if you are here for medical reasons, as an academic, or if you are a graduate who needs to retake a Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test or complete a clinical attachment. The fee to extend a Visitor visa is currently £1,000.

If your visitor visa is refused

Visitor visas may be refused for many reasons, including if the Home Office believes:

• You are using the Visitor Visa scheme to live in the UK
• You pose a threat to national security
• You have breached the immigration rules in the past
• You have unspent criminal convictions
• You don’t appear to be a genuine visitor
• You don’t have sufficient funds to support yourself in the UK

You will not normally have the right to appeal a refusal of a Visitor Visa. In most cases, we recommend preparing a fresh application that addresses the reason for your refusal. Our immigration lawyers can assist with your new application and ensure it meets the criteria for a successful outcome.

1 GOV.UK: Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor

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If you are considering switching visas within the UK , you will likely have some questions about the process.

While reading up on all the regulations and requirements for visa applications is important, finding the answers to some of your more specific queries can be difficult. That’s why we’ve written this blog post about switching visas within the UK—to provide answers to the most common questions about switching visas within the UK.

Read on to learn more about the visa application process and how to ensure your application is successful.

What are the different types of UK visas?

A variety of visas are available depending on your needs. All visa applications need to be made online, and there will be a fee.

It’s important to make sure you’re applying for the right type of visa. Once you have submitted your application, you will have to wait to see if it is approved. So, research the different types before making a decision.

Remember to provide accurate information when you switch visa UK. Having said that, lying on your visa application can lead to your visa being denied. Be prepared, and be sure to read all the instructions carefully.

The UK offers several different types of visas . These include:

Visitor visa

The visa allows people to travel to the UK for a short period of time. It’s used for tourism, business, or to visit family.

Student visa

People who wish to study in the UK can apply for this visa.

People who want to work in the UK for a limited time can apply for this visa.  

Settlement visa

For people who want to live permanently in the UK.

Family visa

This is for people who are related to an individual already living in the UK.

Entrepreneur visa

Entrepreneurs and investors can apply who want to start a business.

Investor visa

This one is for investors who want to make large investments.

EEA family permit

This visa is for family members of European citizens coming to the UK.

What are the eligibility requirements for a UK switch visa?

To switch visas in the UK, you must meet certain requirements . Firstly, you must already have a valid UK visa. Then, you must prove that you meet the eligibility criteria for the new visa type. This could include proving your age, financial circumstances, education level, or employment status.

You may also need to provide documents such as a passport, residence permit, and proof of any qualifications you hold. In addition, you’ll need to show that you intend to stay in the UK for a valid purpose. Finally, you may be required to pay a fee for switching visas . If all these conditions are met, you should be eligible to switch visas within UK.

How do I apply for a switch visa UK?

If you want to switch visas in the UK, there are a few steps you need to follow.

First, you must decide which visa is right for your situation. Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements. After you choose the visa, you must complete an application form. Secondly, provide supporting documents. Lastly, you’ll be asked to attend an interview at the visa office after submitting the application form and documents.

During the interview, they’ll ask questions about your circumstances. Also, they’ll confirm that you meet all the requirements. Finally, you will receive a decision on your application. If approved, you will be able to begin using your new visa.

How much does it cost to switch visas?

The cost to switch visas depends on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, a standard visitor visa costs £95, and a family visa costs £672. Additionally, you may need to pay extra for any additional documents you require

In most cases, it is necessary to pay a fee for each applicant. You may sometimes have to pay an immigration health surcharge when applying. It is important to research all applicable fees before submitting an application.

To avoid any surprises, it’s best to double-check the fees before you submit your application. Also, pay attention to the deadlines for submitting your visa application. In general, failing to meet the deadlines can result in your application being denied.

Lastly, remember that visa requirements and fees may change from time to time. So, be sure to stay up to date. Doing so can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

How long does it take to switch visas?

Particularly, the time it takes to switch visas depends on the type of visa you’re switching to. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. For example, if you are applying for a Standard Visitor visa , it usually takes around 3 weeks to process.

However, if you are applying for a Skilled Worker visa , it could take up to 6 months. You should also consider the processing time for any required documents. Therefore, you’ll need to submit them with your application. This can add extra time to the process.

Remember that processing times vary from visa to visa and case to case. So, it is best to apply as early as possible.

What are the risks of switching visas within the UK?

When going for a UK switch visa, it is important to understand the risks associated with the process. The Home Office can refuse an application for a visa switch if you’ve given false documents. Moreover, they can revoke a visa if the applicant has given false information.

Additionally, if you switch your visa and the rules change, you may be subject to removal from the country or have your visa canceled. Furthermore, if you switch to a visa that requires you to live in a specific area and you move away from this area without notifying the Home Office, your visa could be revoked.

Be aware that each visa has time restrictions. Moreover, failure to abide by them could result in the cancellation of your visa. Finally, if you switch visas UK, you may not be eligible for any public funds or healthcare to you were previously entitled to. As such, it is important to consider all of these factors before switching visas within the UK.

Q: Can I switch visas while I am in the UK?

A: You can switch visas while in the UK by applying to the Home Office.

Q: What are the requirements for switching visas in the UK?

A: You must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as meeting the specified income threshold and having access to suitable accommodation. You will also need to demonstrate that you have sufficient knowledge of the English language and sufficient funds to cover your living costs.

Q: Do I need to leave the UK to switch visas?

A: No, you can make a visa application from within the UK if you meet the relevant criteria.

Q: How long does it take to switch visas in the UK?

A: The time it takes to process a visa application can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and any additional required documents. Generally, it can take up to 6 months for a decision to be made.

Q: What happens if my application is refused?

A: If your visa application is refused, you may have the right to appeal the decision. It is important to read the refusal notice carefully to understand why your application was rejected and whether you are eligible to appeal.

Switching visas within the UK can be complex, but it can also provide many benefits. Understand the eligibility requirements, the application process, the costs, and timeframes for visa switching.

Additionally, it is important to know the risks of switching visas. With this knowledge, you should be better equipped to decide whether to switch visas. Ultimately, switching visas can be a rewarding experience if you can navigate the process successfully.

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Khurram Amir Qureshi has been an advocate of Pakistan since 2004, a Solicitor of England and Wales since 2009, Solicitor of Ireland since 2015. He has extensive experience in family law, Immigration law, Personal injury cases, and Civil and Commercial litigation gaining over 13 years of continuous practice in England and Wales.

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How to Switch Visa (UK): Switching Immigration Category From Within the UK

Author: Gary McIndoe

Switching immigration categories from inside the UK is not always straightforward. Certain routes allow you to stay in the UK under the Immigration Rules by switching visa categories, while others do not. The updated Points-Based System (PBS), introduced at the end of 2020, has opened more visa categories to in-country switching.

Switching visas within the UK can be a complicated process, often more complex than an initial application, and it is important to get this right. While restrictions in many categories have been eased with the new system, others continue to be strict on who is permitted to switch.

Applying to switch your visa under a category where switching is not permitted from inside the UK leads to mandatory refusal. In cases where you cannot switch from your current visa status to another from inside the UK, you will be required to leave the UK and apply for UK Entry Clearance from your country of nationality or usual residence.

In this blog post, we will explore the rules and scenarios in which you can and cannot switch visas in the UK, and into which categories. If you would like to speak to an expert about your specific circumstances, call the specialist immigration lawyers at Latitude Law on 0044 161 234 68007 (Manchester) or 0044 207 046 7185 (London).

How to switch a visa within the UK: the basic process

Switching your visa, or changing immigration categories, within the UK can be a complex process and requires careful planning and preparation. However, the following general steps will need to be followed in most cases:

• Understanding eligibility – before you can switch your visa, you need to check whether you are eligible to do so. Each visa category has specific eligibility requirements, such as your current visa type, your reason for wanting to stay in the UK, your ability to meet financial requirements, and your level of English language skills. You should familiarise yourself with the relevant immigration rules and guidance related to the visa category you want to switch to.
• Gathering documentation – you will need to gather all the necessary documents to support your application. This might include proof of identity, evidence of finances, documents that demonstrate your eligibility (such as a job offer for a work visa, or marriage certificate for a spouse or civil partner visa), and any other documents specified in the application guidance.
• Application submission – once you have all your documents ready, you can apply to switch your visa online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website . The online application will guide you through the process, asking you for the necessary details and allowing you to upload your supporting documents.
• Pay the application fee and immigration health surcharge – after you have submitted your application, you will need to pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The cost will depend on the type of visa you are applying for.
• Biometric information – as part of the application process, you will need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre. You will receive an email telling you how to book an appointment. At your appointment, you will also submit your original documents, if needed.
• Wait for the decision – once you have submitted all of the necessary information, your application will be processed by UKVI. The time it takes to get a decision can vary depending on the type of application, but you can usually expect a decision within eight weeks. In some cases, you may be eligible to pay for a faster decision through the Priority or Super Priority services.
• Receive the decision – you will receive your decision via email or post. If your application is successful, you will receive a new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) showing your new status.

Keep in mind that the specific process may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, and it is always recommended to seek legal advice if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Which visa categories can’t you switch from?

Before applying for a visa switch within the UK, it is important to understand the restrictions that may be applied under UK immigration rules. These include:

• Certain forms of visa cannot be switched
• Your immigration status may affect whether or not you are able to switch
• Any dependant family members will need to apply for their dependant visa separately
• Travel restrictions may apply when you switch visa

For many visa categories, it is simply not possible to switch in-country. These include:

• Short-term student visa
• Parent of a child student visa
• Seasonal worker visa
• Domestic worker in a private household visa

It is also worth noting that you are unlikely to be able to switch to a different visa type in the UK if specific conditions apply to your visa status. For example, switching visas will not be possible for those on immigration bail, or if you have been granted leave to remain under exceptional circumstances, such as on compassionate grounds.

Once you have submitted a visa switch application, you will be required to remain within the UK, Ireland and the common travel area (including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) until a final decision has been issued.

Which visa categories can you switch to or from?

The updated PBS immigration rules have made switching in-country easier in many cases. Here, we will break down the main areas in which visa switching will be an option for you.

Economic visas (highly skilled, global business mobility routes, workers, and students)

For most economic visa routes, it is possible to switch from any visa, other than those listed above, as long as you are able to meet all other requirements for the particular visa you want. However, some categories are stricter:

• Skilled worker visa – to switch into this category, you need to have been offered a skilled job from a licensed sponsor in the UK, meet the English language requirement and meet the minimum salary threshold.
• Innovator Founder visas – these visas replaced the start-up and innovator routes. To be eligible to switch into this category, you must have a business idea that is new, innovative and scalable, and that has been endorsed by an approved body.
• Senior or Specialist Worker visa – this category replaced the Intra-company transfer visa, and is designed for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to an eligible job for their organisation’s UK branch. The company needs to be approved by the Home Office as a sponsor, and you must be earning at least £45,800 per year.

Rules also allow senior or specialist workers (formerly intra-company transferees) to switch into the skilled worker visa route from inside the UK, as the cooling-off period has now been abolished for this category. This could give individuals a possible route to settlement if they wished to remain in the UK.

Individuals here on a student visa are permitted to switch to other economic categories, e.g. skilled worker. The new graduate route, which was introduced in July 2021, also offers students the opportunity to continue their stay in the UK and to work post-study. You are only able to apply to this route from inside the UK; however, it does not lead to settlement, so consider switching to a sponsored skilled worker visa in-country at the end of your graduate stay.

Family visas (partners, children, parents, adult dependant relatives)

It is possible to switch between the various different family visa routes. For example, an applicant who enters on a spouse or civil partner visa could secure an extension as a parent if the marriage breaks down, but there is an ongoing relationship with a child. It is also possible to secure permission to stay in the UK based on your private life rather than your family life, where the specific private life requirements are met. Note that a switch means you must restart your five-year qualifying period of residence when moving towards settlement.

Applicants in these categories are now also able to switch to economic categories (e.g. skilled worker or innovator founder) from inside the UK. Only individuals who are currently living in the UK as a parent of a child student are not permitted to switch to these categories; a fresh overseas application would be required instead.

Religious visas (minister of religion, religious worker)

Under the new system, it is easier for individuals to switch into the minister of religion category. Inexperienced religious workers could potentially secure entry clearance as religious workers, and then switch into the minister of religion category from inside the UK.

This may be possible once the individual undertakes a leading role within their faith-based organisation or religious order, and once their English language skills have reached the required level.

Frequently asked questions

My spouse lives in the UK. How can I acquire a visa to live with them?

If you are married to a UK citizen, currently holding a UK visa for work, education or other purposes, and are worried about what to do when it runs out, you can apply for a switch to a spouse visa.

To switch to a spouse visa, you must be in the UK and meet certain eligibility requirements. These include being married to, or in a civil partnership with, a person who is a British citizen, settled in the UK or has refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK. You must prove that your relationship is genuine and that you are able to financially support yourselves without access to public funds. You also need to meet the English language requirement. You should apply before your current visa expires.

Can you switch from a visitor visa to a spouse visa (UK)?

No. If you currently hold a visitor visa, you will not be able to switch to any other type of visa and must leave the UK to apply for a new one. For more information about how to handle this process, contact our expert immigration solicitors.

Can a dependant switch to a student visa?

Yes, a dependant can switch to a student visa if they meet the criteria set out for the student visa category. They must have been offered a place on a course with an eligible educational institution, be able to prove their English language proficiency (unless exempt), and have enough funds to support themselves and pay for the course. The application should be made from within the UK before the current visa expires.

Can I switch from a student visa to a work visa before my course ends?

Yes, it is possible to switch from a student visa to a work visa before your course ends, provided you meet the requirements for the work visa you’re applying for. This could include the skilled worker visa, which requires a job offer from an employer who is a licensed sponsor, at an appropriate skill level and meeting the minimum salary requirement. However, it is important to consider that visa switching may have implications for your studies, as your new visa might have different conditions regarding course attendance or completion.

I can’t make my arrival window. How can I change this?

When you apply for a visa, you will have a window in which you must arrive in the country – called an entry vignette – and it lasts for 90 days at present (previously it was 30 days).

If you cannot make the necessary travel within this window, you can postpone it by filing for a transfer of conditions, or reapplying for your visa another time. However, you should bear in mind that there will be costs associated with doing so.

For information on exactly what you will need to provide to apply for a vignette change, contact our expert immigration solicitors today.

Find out more

If you have any further questions in relation to switching immigration categories, or need assistance regarding your current immigration status, please contact our specialist immigration team today. Call us on 0044 161 234 68007 (Manchester) or 0044 207 046 7185 (London), or complete our online contact form below.

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Visitor Visa

Can a uk visit visa holder switch into other visa categories from within the uk.

By Amer Zaman

on February 14, 2024

Read Time: 9 Minutes

It is an understandable enough question; if you have come to the UK on a visit visa such as the Standard Visitor visa , but have since fallen in love with the UK and wish to stay, or are interested in extending your time in the UK for any other reason, is there any way of converting your visitor visa into another, perhaps longer-term visa option?

Alas, it is also a question that has a fair swift and simple answer: no. Or at least, this is the case if your wish is to switch directly from a visitor visa into another UK visa category, without leaving the UK first. There might, however, be certain options open to you for a longer-term stay in the UK, although you will almost certainly be required to leave the UK first, followed by applying for another visa from your country of origin.

So, what are the essential things to know about switching between visa types in the UK, especially when it is a visitor visa that you initially have? Below, our award-winning specialists in UK immigration law have set them out.

Can you switch visa types while in the UK?

It certainly is possible for a foreign national who is already in the UK to switch from one type of visa to another without having to leave the UK first. However, whether this will be an option open to you will depend heavily on what visa type you presently hold, and the specific type of visa to which you would like to switch.

To explain our point, let’s take a closer look at just one popular visa category in the UK, the Skilled Worker visa . This is the route through which many people migrate to the UK ; in the year ending June 2023, some 321,101 UK work visas were granted to main applicants , with 69,421 of these being Skilled Worker visas, and 121,290 being Health and Care Worker visas .

If someone wished to switch into the Skilled Worker visa category from another type of visa in the UK, they would need to fulfil certain eligibility criteria. The Home Office also forbids people from applying to switch to this visa if they are on a visitor visa , or certain other types of visa, such as a short-term student visa, a Parent of a Child Student visa, or a seasonal worker visa. People who hold these visa types would need to leave the UK first, in order to then apply for a Skilled Worker visa .

So, as you can see, it is definitely possible for holders of UK visasto change directly from one visa type to another while they are still in the UK, without being forced to leave the UK. However, you will need to check whether the UK immigration rules allow your intended switch. If you are unsure, please feel free to call our central London-based experts in immigration law at Cranbrook Legal, on 0208 215 0053 .

Why am I not allowed to switch from a UK visitor visa directly to another type of UK visa?

As their name suggests, the UK’s visitor visas – which include the likes of the Standard Visitor visa , Marriage Visitor visa, and Permitted Paid Engagement visa – exist for the purposes of allowing short-term visitation to the UK.

The UK’s visit visas are not designed to be “routes” or pathways into longer-term stays in the UK, and the UK Government vigilantly guards against anyone attempting to use these visa categories in such a way. Indeed, when someone applies for a Standard Visitor visa , one of the eligibility requirements is that they must be able to show they will leave the UK once their visit comes to an end.

Let’s imagine a situation in which it was, indeed, possible to switch directly from a UK visitor visa to another type of UK visa. Many unscrupulous individuals who never had any intention of only remaining in the UK temporarily, would almost certainly try to use their visitor visa as a “stepping stone” to staying permanently, thereby undermining the entire intended purpose of the UK’s visitor visa system. So, you can hopefully understand why the UK Government would set strict policies in relation to this.

So, what options do UK visitor visa holders have to stay longer in the country?

Typically, if someone is in the UK on a visitor visa and they wish to remain in the country on a longer-term basis, they will need to investigate their options for returning to their country of origin and only then applying for a new UK visa from outside the UK.

One course of action that we would certainly advise against you doing, is submitting an application for another type of UK visa anyway, despite still being in the UK on a visitor visa. This will simply waste time, and in any case, returning to your home country before making a fresh UK visa application will allow you to do so in the knowledge that you definitely intend to stay in the UK for a longer period of time, or for a different purpose than merely visiting.

Even in the event that you are offered a job in the UK for an immediate start during your time on a visitor visa in the country, you would have no option but to turn this job offer down, because there is no means by which you can switch directly from a visitor visa to a work visa in the UK. Nor does the Standard Visitor visa itself allow for the holder to do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed individual.

Instead, you would need to leave the UK first and make a new application for a relevant working visa – such as the Skilled Worker visa – from your country of origin, if you wished to take up paid work in the UK.

It is worth noting, however, that it may be possible to stay in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa for longer than six months, in certain specific circumstances.

This will only be an option for you if you are:

• A patient receiving medical treatment
• An academic who still meets the eligibility criteria
• A graduate retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test or doing a clinical attachment

If you are able to stay in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa on the aforementioned basis, you will need to submit your visa extension application while you are still in the UK, and before your current visa or permission expires. You will also be required to pay a Home Office application fee of £1,000, and a further £1,000 on top of this if you wish to use the department’s ‘super priority’ service in order to get a quicker decision.

What does a UK visitor visa allow you to do, and for how long?

The specifics of what you can and cannot do on a UK visitor visa will naturally depend on the specific type of UK visitor visa you hold. For example:

• The Standard Visitor visa usually allows holders to stay in the UK for as long as six months, for a range of temporary visitation purposes such as tourism, business , or study on a course lasting for no longer than six months
• The Marriage Visitor visa enables holders to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within six months of their arrival
• The Permitted Paid Engagement visa allows for a visit to the UK for up to one month; as its name indicates, this visa is aimed at those who will be visiting the UK for a paid engagement, having been invited as an expert in their profession by a UK-based client or organisation.

It is of the utmost importance, before you apply for a UK visitor visa , to check that your chosen visa route will permit you to carry out the activities you wish to undertake in the country, and for the time period for which you wish or need to be in the country.

To use the Standard Visitor visa as an example, this popular route enables the holder to carry out any of a broad range of “permitted activities”. These encompass – but are not limited to – visiting for the purposes of a holiday or vacation, and/or seeing friends or family members.

A holder of the Standard Visitor visa is also permitted to volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity, and to carry out certain business activities , such as attending a meeting or interview.

You cannot, however, do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person during your time in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa. Nor is it permissible to use this visa to spend long periods of time living in the UK through frequent or successive visits.  

Can I leave the UK after six months and come back?

If you are a holder of a UK visitor visa – such as the Standard Visitor visa – that only has a validity period of six months, it might have crossed your mind that you could stay in the UK for those six months, leave when the visa comes to an end, and then apply from your country of origin for a new UK visa (for example, a new Standard Visitor visa lasting a further six months).

In theory, it is possible for someone to leave the UK after six months and come back soon afterwards on a new, valid visa – which would mean effectively spending more than six months a year in the UK. The UK’s immigration rules do not set out a specific cumulative time limit.

However, the UK’s immigration rules also state that a visitor has to show they will not “live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK their main home”.

This is a somewhat different requirement to a specified time limit. However, the rules do give Home Office staff – both those at the border, and those deciding on a UK visa application – a lot of power to make their own decisions on who counts as a legitimate visitor to the UK.

So, if you have already spent six months in the UK on a visit visa in any given 12-month period, and you wish to come back to the UK shortly after the six months for which your visit visa was valid have elapsed, you will need to take great care to ensure you are complying with the relevant rules for whatever visa you might be travelling on when you return to the UK.

That will include being able to show to Home Office staff that any swift return visit to the UK will not be part of a continued pattern of long visits that will continue. Our own immigration experts at Cranbrook Legal can advise and assist with your efforts to comply with this requirement.

Our specialists in UK immigration law can provide the complete project-managed service

Whatever UK visa you might already hold, as well as whatever UK visa you may be interested in switching to, if you are unsure what your next steps should be as a foreign national who may or may not already be in the UK, please contact our award-winning immigration solicitors for advice and guidance.

UK immigration law can be notoriously complicated. But the good news is that our own knowledgeable and experienced professionals in this field can help you ensure you always stay on the right side of the Home Office’s ever-changing rules and criteria, including in relation to visitor visas . To learn more about the comprehensive project-managed service we can provide to prospective UK visa applicants or switchers , please feel free to give us a call in central London on 0208 215 0053 . You are also welcome to request a free consultation, using our straightforward online contact form .

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Applying for a Student visa from inside the UK

This page looks at the eligibility criteria and visa application process for applying for a Student visa from inside the UK, also known as permission to stay.

Before assessing whether you can apply in the UK and how to apply in the UK, read the general eligibility rules for information about Student visas.

Can I apply for my Student visa from inside the UK?

You will need to take the following factors into consideration when thinking about applying for a Student visa in the UK:

If you do not currently hold a Tier 4 visa or a Student visa:

• are you in a category that allows switching to Student visa in the UK?
• do you meet the academic progression requirements?
• are you subject to any time limits on study?
• what is the gap between the expiry of your visa and the start of your course?
• when will you be allowed to start your course?

If you are currently in the UK with a valid Tier 4 or Student visa:

• have you completed your previous course?
• are you subject to any time limits for study?

Who cannot switch to a Student visa in the UK

If you have one of the following visa types, you cannot apply to switch in the UK:

• short-term student
• parent of a child student
• seasonal worker
• domestic worker in a private household
• a visa granted outside the immigration rules

Everybody else can apply to switch and must meet the other eligibility criteria.

Should you apply to switch your visa when you are not entitled to it, your application will be invalid. This could lead you to overstaying which has serious consequences.

Academic progression: do I meet the academic progression rules?

To make a Student visa application from inside of the UK, you must meet the academic progression requirement or be exempt from meeting this requirement. The requirement applies to students who have previously held a Tier 4 or Student visa, even if they now hold a different immigration permission.

If you do not meet the academic progression requirement, you will not be able to make your visa application from inside the UK. Instead, you will need to make your application from your home country. For more information about applying outside of the UK, visit the Applying for a Student visa from outside the UK page .

To meet the academic progression requirements, you must have successfully completed the course for which your last Student visa or Tier 4 visa was granted, unless you are exempt from academic progression. You are exempt if you are already a student at the University of Westminster and you are repeating a part of your course, applying to extend for a work placement, going on a study abroad year to take a Student Union Sabbatical Officer post or to complete a PhD.

If you are transferring from a different University and you did not complete your course you will not meet the academic progression requirements.

In addition to having completed the course for which you were last sponsored, you must also be progressing academically. This means that your new course must normally be above the level of your previous course, for example, if you have completed your Bachelor’s degree course, you must now be applying to study a Master’s course. It may be possible to study a second course at the same level, however you cannot study a course at a lower level.

If you are a student who wants to study a course at the same level as the course you have already studied before, for example, a second Masters, you will need to have a progression statement added to your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) . You will need to show how the new programme is related to your previous course (either that it is connected to the previous course, forms a part of the same subject group, or involves deeper specialisation) or that the previous and the new course combined support your career aspirations. You should email the University compliance team with your progression statement at [email protected] . Progression statements are not always accepted so take time to work on a good statement that meets the above requirements.

Academic progression: I am a current student at the University of Westminster

If you are applying to re-sit an exam, repeat a course module or you have re-sat exams or repeated course modules in the past and you now need to extend your visa to compete your course, you will be exempt from meeting the academic progression requirement. Your new CAS must confirm that you are exempt from academic progress. Please note that it is not always possible to extend your Student visa to complete your course. One of the deciding factors will be your mode of attendance and whether you are required to be in the UK to complete the course.

If you have previously changed course, having met the relevant requirements to do so, your re-sit or repeat must be relevant to your new course and not your previous course. You are required to submit a transcript of results to demonstrate that your re-sit or repeat relates to your new course.

You are also exempt from the academic progression requirement if you are extending your visa to undertake a study abroad year or work placement or you have previously completed a study abroad year or work placement and you now need further time to complete your course.

Please note there are additional factors that the University needs to check before they can issue with a new CAS. The University will check your mode of attendance, when your re-sit or repeat module will take place and whether you are within the time limit to study in the UK.

If you are continuing on a course at the University of Westminster, please contact Student Advice for further advice.

The rules concerning academic progression are complex; for detailed information about the academic progression, requirement see the immigration rules or contact Student Advice .

The time limit to study on a Student visa

There is a five-year time limit to stay in the UK for degree level study (undergraduate courses).

If your Student visa extension would lead to you having spent more than the five years permitted, the Home Office will refuse your application.

For more information about the time limit for studying in the UK and the exceptions to this rule, please visit the Student visa eligibility requirements page .

The gap between the expiry of your current visa and the start of your course

There must normally be no more than a 28-day gap between the expiry of your current visa and the start of your new course; this is the case both if you are applying to switch to a Student visa or if you already hold a Student visa and you are applying to start a new course at the University of Westminster.

If there is a gap of more than 28 days between the expiry of your visa and the start of your course, you must not make your visa application from inside the UK as your visa application is likely to be refused.

See the Applying for a Student visa from outside the UK page  if you need to leave the UK to make a Student visa application. 

I am applying for an extension of my visa as a continuing student

If you are a current student at the University of Westminster and you need to extend your visa because you need extra time to complete your course but you are not repeating, please contact Student Advice to check whether you can extend your visa in the UK.

You must be in attendance on a course to be sponsored by the University for a Student visa. If you are not required to attend for 60 days or more, you may be required to go home for a period of time before returning to resume your studies. The  Library and Student Centre  will be able to tell you about your course. This rule normally only affects students who are deferring a part of their course or are repeating and will have a gap. Students who are only repeating their dissertation/project will normally not be sponsored as they are not attending classes.

If you can extend your visa in the UK, you will need a new Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) . You must apply for your visa extension before your current visa expires.

I am applying for a visa to study a new course and have recently completed a course at the University of Westminster

If you have recently completed a course at the University and you wish to start a new course at Westminster, please contact Student Advice to see whether you can extend your visa from within the UK.

If Student Advice confirms that you can make your visa application from inside the UK, you will be able to start your course on your current visa. You must submit your visa application, using a new CAS for your new course, within six weeks of enrolling on your course, or before your visa expires, whichever is earlier. If there is a gap of more than 28 days between the expiry of your current visa and the start of your new course, you will not be able to make your visa application from inside of the UK. Furthermore, you must meet the academic progression requirement and you must be within the time limit to study in the UK.

I am applying for a visa to study at the University of Westminster and have successfully completed a course at a different institution

If you are applying to start a new course at the University of Westminster, you will need to make your visa application before you can enrol on your course. You will not be able to enrol on/start your course until you have a visa for the University of Westminster, or you provide evidence that you have applied to extend your Student visa in the UK.

If showing us evidence of an application, you must have used a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the University of Westminster and applied for an extension whilst you had existing student permission.

Making your Student visa application from inside the UK

How to apply.

You must complete and submit the online visa application form. For most in-country applicants, the process is now fully digital and includes using a Government ID checking app to confirm your identity. Those unable to use the app will be required to attend a biometrics appointment at a UKVCAS centre, in addition to submitting the online application form. You must apply with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for your course at the University of Westminster.

A standard Student visa application usually takes eight weeks to be processed. If you want a decision more quickly you may be able to make a priority application or super-priority application, although the latter option is not available for those using the ID Check app as a part of the process.

For a full list of documents you should include with your application, please refer to our Documents required for a study visa page .

When to apply

If you are currently on a Student visa or are switching visa category you should apply for your visa extension before your current visa expires.

If you remain in the UK after the expiry date of your visa without submitting your visa application, you will become an overstayer, which is a criminal offence. There are serious consequences of overstaying your visa and it is unlikely that you will be able to start or continue with your studies at Westminster as an overstayer. You can read about the consequences of overstaying your visa on the UKCISA website .

You should prepare for your visa application in advance of your visa expiry date to ensure that you have the time to gather your supporting evidence, this is especially the case if you require an ATAS certificate , need to show evidence of funds (see: Financial requirements ), or have previously been sponsored by an Official Financial Sponsor .

Please note that a Student visa application must not be made more than three months before the start of your course as shown on your CAS.

I have received a decision on my visa application, what are my next steps?

You will most likely receive a decision on your visa application via email. Alternatively, you could be sent a decision in the post. It is important that you read the information on the decision notification carefully. The notification email or letter will confirm whether the Home Office has granted or refused your application. If your application has been granted you should check the information to ensure your visa details are correct, including the start and end dates of your visa. You should also familiarise yourself with the conditions of your new visa.

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) versus digital visa

If you applied for your Student visa using the ID Check app, you will receive a digital visa which you will be able to view and show to others using the Government website . The details and conditions of your visa will be described in the decision letter you receive, so please make sure to read it carefully and save it for future reference. You will also receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in addition to your digital visa if you are a Visa national .

If you did not use the ID Check app in your application, your visa will be granted on a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). A BRP is a plastic card (like a credit card) that contains your photograph, your personal information, your immigration permission and the conditions of your visa. Your BRP will be sent by courier to the correspondence address mentioned on your visa application form. It can take up to 10 days, after you receive a decision on your application, for your BRP to be sent to you.

What details do I check on my digital visa (including the decision letter) or BRP?

• Your personal details
• The start and end date – your visa should be granted for the duration of your course plus an additional four months if your course duration is for 12 months or more. For courses that are six months or more but less than 12 months, you should be given an extra two months at the end of your course
• The University’s sponsor licence number – KQG71BMB4 

There is an error on my BRP or digital visa

For basic errors on your BRP such as your name, date of birth or nationality, you will have to report these on the GOV.UK website within 10 days of receiving your BRP. Failure to report an error within 10 days could result in you having to apply and pay for a BRP replacement. If you spot a basic error on your digital visa, you are required to report it via the ‘view and prove’ page .

If there is an error with the length of your stay or the conditions of your visa, you will need to submit an administrative review application. Please contact Student Advice immediately if there is an error on your BRP or digital visa.

What to do after a successful application

Following a successful Student visa application and when you are preparing for your course, you may have questions about what to bring and what to expect. We've rounded up some key resources below.

• To find out about the enrolment process, see our Enrolment for new students page
• For advice about documents you need to bring and events to help you settle in, see our  Enrolment for new international students page
• To find out what to do before you arrive and during your first few weeks at Westminster, see our New student checklist page

Police registration

In the past, you may have been required to register with the Police, but as of 1 August 2022, the requirement to register has been removed. You will now not be asked to either register with the Police on arrival in the UK (as a condition of your visa) or to provide a Police Registration Certificate if you are making a Student Visa Extension application.

If your Student visa application is refused, you must inform the University's Student visa team by emailing [email protected] and contacting Student Advice to discuss your next steps.

If you are planning on bringing a family member with you to the UK as your dependant, please visit the UKCISA website  for information about the application process and requirements.

Please also note that the rules relating to who can be your dependant whilst you are in the UK will be changing in January 2024. You will no longer be able to bring dependants to join you in the UK if you are studying for a postgraduate degree (undergraduate degree students are also unable to bring dependants).

For further details, please see the overview of changes on the UKCISA website . Please note there will be some exceptions for students who are already studying in the UK before this date.

Related pages

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Applying for a Student visa from outside the UK

Find out how to apply for a student visa from outside the UK

New student checklist

Find out what to do before you arrive and during your first few weeks at Westminster.

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• Switching Visas Within UK

Switch Your Visa From Inside the UK

You might be eligible to apply to change or switch your visa from inside the UK depending on the type of your current visa and category you are switching to.

It is important to note that not all visa types are eligible for switching, and certain visa categories may have specific conditions or limitations regarding switching.

The specific requirements and procedures for switching visas may vary depending on the visa categories involved, as well as the individual's circumstances. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa switching in the UK.

If you're already in the UK on a valid visa and want to switch to a different type of visa, contact our immigration lawyer on 0161 989 9370 for the help you need.

What is a visa switch?

Switching visas refers to the process of switching or changing from one type of visa to another within the UK.

When individuals are already in the UK on a specific visa and wish to change their immigration status, they may need to apply for a different visa category that aligns with their new circumstances or intentions. This process is generally known as " switching " or " changing " visas.

For example, someone who is in the UK on a student visa may decide to switch to a work visa after completing their studies. In such cases, they would need to submit a new work visa application, meet the eligibility requirements for the desired visa category, and provide the necessary supporting documents. 

How to apply to switch your visa from inside the UK?

To switch or change your visa from inside the UK, you typically need to follow these general steps:

Check your eligibility

Prepare supporting documents, complete the application form, pay the application fee, book and attend a biometric appointment, submit your application, wait for a decision, receive your decision.

Determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa category you want to switch to. Each visa category has its own specific requirements, such as qualifications, job offers, financial criteria, or family relationships. Contact our immigration lawyer for guidance and requirements for the visa you wish to switch to.

Gather all the necessary supporting documents as outlined in the application requirements. This may include your current passport, visa, biometric residence permit (BRP), proof of financial means, accommodation details, and any other relevant documents specific to the visa category you are switching to.

Fill out the application form for the visa you want to switch to. The application form can usually be completed online through the UK government's official website . Provide accurate and complete information in the form.

Pay the required application fee. The fee amount will depend on the specific visa category you are applying for. Please note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official website before applying for a visa.

Schedule an appointment at a designated visa application centre to submit your biometric information, including your fingerprints and photograph. You may need to have your biometrics taken as part of the application process.

Compile all the required documents, including the application form, supporting documents, and proof of payment. Submit your application and supporting documents either online or by mailing them to the appropriate address as specified in the application guidelines.

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision. The processing times can vary depending on the visa category and other factors. You can check the current estimated processing times on the UK government's website.

Once a decision is made on your application, you will be notified of the outcome. If your application is successful, you will receive a new visa or a biometric residence permit (BRP) with the updated visa details.

Immigration lawyer for switching visas within the UK

Different types of UK visas have different requirements, so it's better to seek advice from an immigration lawyer for accurate information and eligibility assessment.

Call us on 0161 989 9370 for legal advice & assistance with the switching of your visa. Our immigration lawyer will help you every step of the way.

Assistance with UK visa application

As part of our immigration services for your immigration application, our expert immigration lawyer will:

• assess your eligibility for the relevant visa type by fully considering your circumstances;
• advise you on the required supporting documents to be submitted in support of your immigration application;
• assess all the documents to ensure that the documents you provide are as per the requirements of the Immigration Rules;
• advise you on strengths and potential weaknesses in your visa application and how you can overcome such weaknesses if any;
• complete the online immigration draft application form to share it with you for cross-checking;
• submit your application online and schedule your biometrics appointments with the relevant commercial partner of the UKVI;
• prepare a detailed cover letter in support of the immigration application explaining in detail how you are meeting all the requirements of the Immigration Rules so that you have the maximum chances of succeeding in your visa application;
• upload all the supporting documents online in support of the immigration application in their correct format and order;
• dealing and responding to any caseworker enquiries or correspondence from the Home Office caseworker for any further documents or information concerning your pending immigration application;
• do all the follow-up work on your immigration application until a decision is received from the Home Office UKVI.

Contact our experienced and friendly immigration lawyer on 0161 989 9370 or fill in our enquiry form to get reliable & confidential immigration advice and legal assistance with a UK visa application or any other immigration matter.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding switching visas within the UK:

Can I switch visas while in the UK?

Yes, it is generally possible to switch visas while you are already in the UK. However, the specific rules and eligibility criteria will depend on the visa category you currently hold and the one you wish to switch to.

What visa categories can I switch to while in the UK?

The visa categories you can switch to will depend on your individual circumstances and the eligibility requirements for each visa. Some common examples include switching from a student visa to a work visa or switching from a work visa to a settlement (indefinite leave to remain). It is important to review the specific requirements for the visa category you want to switch to.

Do I need to leave the UK to switch visas?

In most cases, you can switch visas without leaving the UK. However, there may be exceptions for certain visa categories or specific circumstances. It is recommended to consult an immigration lawyer to determine if you need to leave the UK to switch visas.

Can I switch to a different visa category if my current visa is expiring soon?

Yes, you can apply to switch visas even if your current visa is close to expiring. However, it is advisable to submit your application before your current visa expires to ensure continuity of your legal status in the UK.

Do I need to provide biometrics again when switching visas?

In most cases, if you have already provided your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) for a previous visa application, you will not need to provide them again when switching visas. However, there may be exceptions, and it is best to seek legal advice from an experienced immigration lawyer.

Can I work or study while my visa switch application is being processed?

It depends on the conditions of your current visa. Some visas may allow you to work or study while your switch application is under consideration, while others may have restrictions. Review the terms of your current visa or seek advice to ensure you comply with the conditions.

What happens if my visa switch application is refused?

If your visa switch application is refused, you may need to take appropriate action based on the reasons for the refusal. This could include reapplying, appealing the decision, or considering other options. It is advisable to seek legal advice to understand your options and determine the best course of action.

Can I switch to work visa from visit visa UK?

No, it is generally not possible to switch directly from a Visitor Visa to a Work Visa within the UK. The UK immigration rules do not permit individuals to switch from a standard Visitor Visa (also known as a "Visit Visa") to a Work Visa category from within the UK.

Need legal advice or help from an immigration lawyer?

Call us on 0161 989 9370 or fill in the enquiry form to get legal advice or help with your UK visa application. Our UK immigration lawyer is ready to assist you.

At Rex Law Chambers, we specialise in a wide range of UK visas and nationality applications and our principal immigration lawyer has a wealth of experience and expert knowledge to deal with all types of UK visas and immigration applications. He has successfully handled many complex and high-profile cases and also represented clients in their immigration matters.

Free immigration advice online

Our immigration lawyer can provide one-off FREE general legal advice online via live chat or through the enquiry form . The FREE advice does not cover the advice in relation to complex legal issues or advice about documents to be submitted in support of the application.

If you would like to get detailed immigration advice then please schedule an in-person , Zoom , or phone consultation by using our appointment request form .

Need help with an immigration matter?

If you need legal advice or help with your UK  visa application, contact our immigration lawyer today.

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17 Oct Can you switch from a visitor visa into a spouse visa?

Under Appendix V of the Immigration Rules, a visitor is a person who is entering the UK for holiday or to visit friends or family or carryout a business activity, but also with an intention to return to their country of nationality / habitual residence.

A visitor visa holder cannot work or study in the UK unless it is allowed under the permitted activities that are set out in the Immigration Rules.

Who will need to apply for a standard visitor visa?

Under paragraph V 1.2 of the Immigration Rules, visa nationals must obtain a visit visa before they arrive in the UK.  Please refer to Appendix 2 to check whether you are a visa national as below:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-v-visitor-rules

Activities are allowed under the standard visitor visa route

The standard visitor visa allows migrants:

• To visit family or friends;
• To have a holiday in the UK;
• To attend business-related activities, for example, conferences, meetings or interviews;
• To take part in sports or creative events;
• To receive private medical treatment for up to 11 months;
• To study for a short-course or recreational courses for up to 30 days;
• To carry out the specific permitted activities for academics for up to 12 months;
• To convert a civil partnership into a marriage.

Can you switch from a standard visitor visa into a spouse visa in the UK?

Migrants are not allowed to switch from a standard visitor visa into any other visa categories in the UK.

Applicants who wish to enter the UK to register a marriage can apply for a marriage visitor visa or a fiancé (e) visa. Please note that migrants who are submitting a marriage visitor visa must leave the UK after their wedding/ honeymoon.

A fiancé (e) visa is normally granted for up to 6 months. Migrants have to marry within 6 months of their arrival in the UK and then they will also be able to switch into a spouse visa whilst in the UK.

Contact Our Immigration Team

For expert advice regarding any aspect of the spouse visa application, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075.

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Switching Visas [Switching From One Visa Category To Another From Inside The UK]

• Page Contents

What Is Visa Switching?

• Switching Into Family Visa
• Switching Into Work Visa
• Switching Into Dependant Of Work Visa Holder
• Switching Into Other Visa Categories
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you are already lawfully in the UK, you may be able to switch from your current visa category to a difference visa category from inside the UK. Our specialist team of immigration solicitors provide legal help and switching from one visa type to another from inside the UK. Our highly experienced have wealth of knowledge and huge experience of dealing with applications for switching visas from inside the UK.

Premium Solicitors are specialist UK immigration solicitors and the high quality of UK visa and immigration legal services provided by our best team of fully qualified and experienced immigration solicitors is self-evident from the 5-star Google Reviews rating by 99% of our clients.

Our specialist team of immigration solicitors can provide Priority / Super Priority Service for faster decision on certain applications for switching visas from inside the UK. Ask a question online to our specialist team of immigration solicitors for free immigration advice online or book an appointment online for a detailed immigration advice and consultation with one of our specialist immigration solicitors concerning your application for switching from your current visa category into another visa category.

Switching is where an applicant with one type of leave to enter or remain or immigration status in the UK applies for leave to remain from inside the UK to seek stay under some other visa category. If you are not allowed by the Immigration Rules to switch your visa status from one visa category to another, the application you make for variation of leave to remain may not succeed. It is therefore important to understand the visa switching rules to switch from one visa category to the other from inside the UK. In cases where you cannot switch from your current visa status to another from inside the UK, the immigration rules require that you have to leave the UK and apply for UK visa Entry Clearance from outside the UK.

Our expert team of immigration solicitors can provide legal help and assistance with switching from one visa category to the other from inside the UK. For certain applications, we can also provide  Super Priority Service for switching visas from inside the UK.

Followings are the various visa categories for which our expert immigration solicitors can provide fast, friendly, reliable and  fixed fee legal services for switching into visas from inside the UK:

Switching Into Family Visas From Inside The UK

You can apply for switching into family visa from inside the UK if you are already in the UK under a visa categor from which switching into family visa is permitted under the UK immigration rules. As specialist family visa solicitors, we can provide fast, friendly and reliable fixed fee legal services for the following applications for switching into family visas from inside the UK:

• Switching Into Spouse Visa UK
• Switching Into Unmarried Partner Visa
• Switching Into Same Sex Partner Visa
• Switching Into Civil Partner Visa UK
• Switching Into Parent Of A Child Visa UK
• Switching Into Ukraine Family Scheme Visa UK

Switching Into Work Visas From Inside The UK

Subject to meeting the immigration status requirement, you can switch into work visa from inside the UK. For most applications for switching into work visas from inside the UK, an application for switching into work visa can be submitted to the Home Office UKVI through Priority Service / Super Priority Service for a faster decision on the switching application. Our specialist team of work visa solicitors can provide fast, friendly and reliable fixed fee legal services for the following applications for switching into work visas from inside the UK:

• Switching Into Skilled Worker Visa
• Switching Into Health and Care Worker Visa
• Switching Into Scale-up Worker Visa UK
• Switching Into T2 Minister Of Religion Visa
• Switching Into Global Talent Visa UK
• Switching Into Graduate Visa / PSW Visa UK
• Switching Into High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa UK
• Switching Into Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
• Switching Into UK Expansion Worker Visa
• Switching Into International Sportsperson Visa UK
• Switching Into BNO Visa UK

Switching Into Dependant Visa As A Dependant Of Work Visa Holder

Dependants of work visa holders can apply for switching into dependant visa from inside the UK if they meet the immigration status requirement, relationship requirement and financial requirement. Dependants of work visa holders can apply for switching into dependant visa through Priority Service or Super Priority Service for faster decision on the dependant visa application. As specialist dependant visa solicitors, we can provide fast, friendly and reliable fixed fee legal services for the following applications for switching into dependant visas from inside the UK:

• Switching Into Skilled Worker Dependant Visa
• Switching Into Health and Care Worker Dependant Visa
• Switching Into Scale-up Worker Dependant Visa UK
• Switching Into UK Ancestry Dependant Visa
• Switching Into T2 Minister Of Religion Dependant Visa
• Switching Into Global Talent Dependant Visa
• Switching Into Tier 1 Entrepreneur Dependant Visa
• Switching Into Sole Representative Dependant Visa
• Switching Into International Sportsperson Dependant Visa UK
• Switching Into Senior or Specialist Worker Dependant Visa
• Switching Into High Potential Individual (HPI) Dependant Visa UK
• Switching Into Expansion Worker Dependant Visa
• Switching Into Graduate Dependant Visa UK

Switching Into Other Various Visa Categories

Following are the various other visa categories for which you can submit a switching application from within the UK if your immigration status in the UK permits you to switch in-country:

• Switching Into Student Visa UK
• Switching Into Student Dependant Visa UK
• Initial Application For Discretionary Leave To Remain (DLR)
• Application For Switching Into Pre-Settled Status Under EUSS

FAQs - Switching Visas Within UK

An applicant who is applying for switching into work visa from inside the UK must be in the UK on the date of application and must not have, or have last been granted, permission:

• as a Visitor; or
• as a Short-term student; or
• as a Parent of a Child Student; or
• as a Seasonal Worker; or
• as a Domestic Worker in a Private Household; or
• outside the Immigration Rules.

An applicant who is applying for switching into family visa from inside the UK must be in the UK on the date of application and must not have, or have last been granted, permission:

Even if you do not meet the above given criteria, you may still be able to switch into family visa based on your exceptional circumstances and special considerations under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and Section 55 of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act (BCIA) 2009.

Yes, as a result of changes made to the Immigration Rules as of 1 December 2020, it is now possible for a student to switch into Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK without completing his/her course.

Yes, you can switch from T5 Temporary worker visa to skilled worker visa from inside the UK.

For most in-country switching applications including switching into family visa, work visa and student visa, you can submit your switching application through Priority / Super Priority Service for a faster decision on your switching application.

Yes, you can switch from spouse or partner visa to skilled worker visa from inside the UK if your relationship with your partner or spouse breaksdown irretrievably.

Subject to meeting all the eligibility requirements, you can apply for switching into spouse / partner visa 10 years route from inside the UK if you are an overstayer in the UK.

Premium Solicitors is a London based law firm with specialisation in UK visa & immigration matters. Premium Solicitors is the trading name of Premium Solicitors Ltd (company registration number 14268786). Premium Solicitors Office is regulated by Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) under SRA ID 8001468. Premium Solicitors are also members of Immigration Law Practitioners' Association (ILPA).

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Money latest: American Express announces two big changes to credit card

Two changes to British Airways credit cards - which help customers collect Avios points towards flights - are coming. Read about this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog, and tell us your thoughts on any of the stories we cover in the form below.

Friday 12 April 2024 18:30, UK

• UK economy grows slightly for second month in a row
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Ask a question or make a comment

Drivers are still feeling the strain of rising insurance premiums - but there are signs of a slowdown, according to one index.

New figures from insights firm Consumer Intelligence suggest the average quoted price of car insurance rose by 56.4% in the year to February.

This was the third-highest annual increase since its records began in 2012 - but in slightly better news for motorists, it marked a lower annual rise than the 67.2% recorded in November.

And there was only a slight rise of 0.5% when looking at the three months to February - the lowest quarterly increased since November 2021.

Drivers most commonly received a quote between £500 and £749 in February, Consumer Intelligence said. It analysed the average of the five cheapest offers from price comparison websites.

Max Thompson, the firm's insurance insight manager, said big insurance brands made "competitive movements" to reduce premiums at the start of the year.

"However, some of this was unwound in February indicating it may have been more of a tactical move than a long-term trend," he added.

Jonathan Fong, manager of general insurance policy at the Association of British Insurers, said insurers were "aware of the financial challenges customers are facing" and were working to keep prices affordable.

"Our motor premium tracker is the only collection based on the price customers pay for their policy, rather than quotes, and shows that the average motor premium increased by 25% last year to £543.

"This was largely driven by above inflation increases in the cost of repairs, thefts and replacement cars."

The Abu Dhabi-backed vehicle that had been on the brink of buying The Daily Telegraph is in detailed talks with Whitehall officials about the structure of an onward sale of the newspaper. 

Sky News has learnt that RedBird IMI is negotiating with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport about whether it can convert a call option which constitutes the right to take ownership of the Telegraph and Spectator into shares in the assets prior to their purchase by a new owner.

Read the exclusive story by our City editor Mark Kleinman ...

The telecoms entrepreneur who turned Daisy Group into one of the industry's most successful private companies is closing in on the latest in a string of significant takeover deals.

Matthew Riley, Daisy's chairman, has orchestrated a £215m deal to acquire 4Com , a provider of cloud communications services to more than 17,000 corporate customers, Sky News understands.

City sources said the deal was expected to be signed within days and was likely to hand 4Com founder Daron Hutt a windfall worth more than £100m.

Read the full story here ...

The Financial Conduct Authority has told motor finance firms they need to put funds aside as it continues a probe into the sector.

The City regulator also said many firms are "struggling to promptly provide the data we need" for the investigation.

A review was launched by the FCA earlier this year into whether people could be owed compensation for being charged too much for car loans, following a high number of complaints on historic agreements.

American Express has announced two major changes to its British Airways credit cards which help customers collect Avios points towards flights.

From November, the amount that BA Amex and BA Amex Premium Plus card holders will need to spend every year to get "two-for-one" companion vouchers will rise to £15,000.

That's a £3,000 rise in the minimum annual spend for Amex customers and £5,000 for Amex Premium Plus.

The companion vouchers mean customers can grab a second seat for someone travelling on the same flight, or a 50% discount on the Avios price of a solo flight.

That's not the only change, however, as American Express is also hiking the annual fee for its Amex Premium Plus card from £250 to £300 - an inflation-busting 20% increase.

The fee increase applies from today for new applicants. Existing cardholders will be hit with the rise for renewals from 1 August onwards.

Meanwhile, the US bank said the qualifying spend for companion vouchers will start from 1 November regardless of when membership is renewed.

That means some current customers may need to race to hit the lower minimum spend by 31 October.

American Express told consumer champion Which? that it occasionally makes changes to cardholders' account terms. A spokesperson said the companion voucher "remains an industry-leading credit card benefit", while both cards "continue to provide great value for customers".

Greece has announced a scheme to give "free" holidays to tourists affected by the wildfires that ravaged Rhodes last summer.

More than 20,000 tourists and locals were forced to flee homes and seaside hotels after blazes fanned by strong winds broke out on the island and burned for days in July 2023.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis vowed  last year to offer a one-week free holiday in Rhodes to those whose holidays were cut short.

The country's government has now officially launched the "Rodos Week" scheme, which offers an e-voucher of between €300 and €500 compensation for a week's stay.

The general secretary of Greece's tourism ministry  told  The Guardian that it has been a "very complicated process not least, I think, because we’re the first country in the world to do this".

The amount holidaymakers can claim depends on the rank of the hotel they were originally staying in.

E-vouchers can be claimed during two phases: between now and May 31, and from 10 October to 11 November.

Only those who stayed in hotels are eligible for the scheme, the government said, with Airbnb accommodation excluded.

Yannis Papavasiliou, head of the island's union of hoteliers, said there has been good take up already with over 5,000 holidaymakers enrolling, according to The Guardian.

The airport where you're likely to face the longest delays has been revealed as one of the UK's biggest.

London Gatwick replaced Birmingham to top the list for 2023, with its departures nearly 27 minutes behind schedule, according to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data.

The West Sussex airport, the second-busiest in the UK behind Heathrow, was hit by air traffic control shortages across Europe last year and also had similar problems in its control tower.

In a statement, Gatwick said it was "working closely with our airline partners to improve on-time performance".

"The majority of cancellations are caused by poor weather, airspace constraints across Europe and inefficient third party ground operations," it said.

Luton airport followed with an average delay of almost 23 minutes, while Manchester took third place at nearly 22 minutes.

In contrast, holidaymakers flying from Belfast City (George Best) had the best experience, with the typical delay there just 12-and-a-half minutes in 2023.

Across all airports, the average delay was almost 20 minutes and 42 seconds - though this fell from 23 minutes and 12 seconds the previous year amid a boom in travel after the pandemic.

CAA director Tim Johnson said the aviation sector needed to "focus on resilience" before summer comes to "keep passenger disruption to a minimum".

All scheduled and chartered departures from UK airports with at least 1,000 outbound flights were included in the analysis, with cancellations excluded.

Naomi Leach, deputy editor of Which? Travel, said the latest figures point to "millions of passengers" experiencing "unacceptably long hold-ups last year".

"This cannot be allowed to become the new normal."

But the Airport Operators Association argued that data doesn't show "any of the context around operating in a global environment".

"Airports work extremely hard to minimise delays while providing a positive, safe and secure experience for passengers," it said.

We've all heard consumer advice that's repeated so often it almost becomes cliché. So, every Friday the Money team will get to the bottom of a different "fact" and decide whether it's a myth or must.

This week it is...

'You can't get a mortgage with a bad credit rating'

Just how important is keeping on top of your credit score when it comes to buying a home?

For this one, we've got the help of  Emma Steeley , chief executive at borrowing platform Aro. 

"The honest answer is that a bad credit rating can stop you from getting a mortgage, and a poor rating can throw some serious hurdles in your path," Emma says. 

"Despite this, it's not the end of the road if your credit rating isn't as rosy as you'd like it to be."

What counts as a bad credit score?

"In the worst-case scenario, this will likely mean you've defaulted on or missed payments, and debt has been escalated to the stage where legal action has been initiated," Emma says. 

An applicant left with a credit score below 325 is considered "poor" or even "very poor" by Equifax. 

A game of risk for lenders

Before we talk about what your credit score will do to an offer rate, it's important to understand the impact that the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio can have on this too, as it heavily influences the interest rate offered by lenders.

Your LTV ratio is used by lenders to decide how risky it is to lend you the money to buy your home. It compares how much of the property you will own - ie, how much deposit you can put down in relation to the property’s value - to how much they will need to lend to you to make up the difference.

"The lower your LTV ratio, the better the mortgage rate you're likely to be offered - the higher the LTV, the higher the risk for the lender," Emma says. 

"A higher credit score can help mitigate the impact of a high LTV, potentially resulting in a more favourable interest rate."

What to do if you have a poor credit score

The obvious answer here is to try to improve your credit score, by building your file with credit builder loans and/or secured cards.

"While the options may be limited and less favourable for those with 'poor' credit scores, they do exist," Emma says. 

Those are usually longer or more expensive deals, however. 

The good news is most lenders don't solely use credit scores as a measure of creditworthiness. 

"Best practice will see lenders using a blended scorecard, that overlays behavioural data and back book financial performance with credit data to get a much more accurate assessment of an individual's payback ability," Emma says. 

However, for people with a "very poor" rating (below 226, according to Equifax), the number of offers you are likely to receive shrinks to almost zero.

Myth or must?

It's undeniable that a good credit score gives you more flexibility when it comes to getting a mortgage. 

"Importantly, credit scores can be improved," Emma says. 

"Those who take a proactive approach to managing their finances and understand how to rebuild their credit score will find themselves presented with a wider array of loan options."

A good credit score is a money must. 

Messy neighbours can slash tens of thousands of pounds off the value of your home, according to new research.

A survey of estate agents by Churchill Home Insurance found that more than four in five (82%) believe it's important for homeowners to chat to their neighbours about their poorly maintained property before putting the house on the market.

Some 22% said an overgrown garden is likely to have the biggest impact, while 20% said rubbish or junk in the driveway or front garden could affect the cost.

Overflowing gutters (20%), several cars parked on or around the property (19%) and garden ornaments and statues (18%) also cut the value of neighbouring homes, estate agents said.

The research also revealed that some sellers deliberately time viewings to make their houses seem more attractive, avoiding issues next door such as loud music or pets - or even avoiding the neighbours altogether.

Sarah Khan, head of Churchill home insurance, said: "First impressions count when it comes to selling homes, with the sale price often negatively impacted when the neighbouring property looks scruffy.

"Investing a few hundred pounds in a gardener to tidy up next door's front garden could pay huge dividends when it comes to selling your home, a win-win for both you and your neighbour." 

What do estate agents say? 

We spoke to people in the industry about the risk of having messy neighbours when it comes to moving - and what their advice is for those seeking to avoid any effect on their sale.

James Stevenson, south and south west area director at Foxtons,  agrees it can make the process more difficult.

"Gardens that are unkept or full of clutter, pavements and frontages that have fallen into disrepair or where your neighbours are showing little care for their property are all a negative flag for buyers," he said.

"Additionally, any disruption that has become a neighbourly dispute must be declared to prospective buyers, so it's always better to have a great relationship with your neighbours and try to resolve any existing issues amicably."

Messy neighbours are "frustrating" at any time, but become a "more pressing issue" when it comes to putting a home up for sale, says  Sarah Cull, senior associate director Strutt & Parker Salisbury.

"Before you get your own gardening shears out, the first step should always be to try to have a frank conversation with your neighbour - you can even explain that you're looking to sell and you want to give prospective buyers the best first impression possible."

If a friendly chat doesn't do the job, Sarah suggests heading to a local garden centre to pick up some screening.

"Where the neighbour's garden is considered a nuisance - for example there's lots of rubbish which could attract pests, or weeds are damaging groundwork - then you can report it to your local council," she added.

By  Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

The continued return to growth with GDP - a measure of everything produced in the economy - up 0.1% has been welcomed by markets.

The FTSE 100 - the index of most valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange - is up 0.86% and near its all-time high.

Pushing up the index is Fresnillo, the precious metals mining company with its share price up 6.91%.

Potentially putting a dampener on the global economy is the fact oil prices have remained elevated, with a barrel of the benchmark Brent crude oil costing $90.57.

Currency wise, one pound buys $1.256 and €1.17.

Jeremy Hunt says the latest economy figures are a "welcome sign".

The chancellor said GDP growth of 0.1% shows "that the economy is turning a corner, and we can build on this progress if we stick to our plan".

"Last week our cuts to national insurance for 29 million working people came into effect across Britain, as part of our plan to reward work and grow the economy," he said in a statement.

The UK economy has grown slightly for the second month in a row, official figures show.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew just 0.1% in February, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

It's another signal that the UK economy is working its way out of recession.

Growth of 0.3% was recorded last month - and that figure has been revised upwards from a previous estimate of 0.2%.

A recession was declared in February after data showed two quarters of economic contraction.

If the economy expands for three months, the UK will be officially out of recession.

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UK visa rules tore my family apart – and for others like us, it’s about to get much worse

A new income threshold means only the richest 30% of employed Britons will be able to bring their partners here. It’s unspeakably cruel

S ix years ago almost to the day, with my 15-month-old daughter strapped to my chest, I fought back tears, waved my husband off at Bengaluru airport in India and boarded a plane back to the UK. I wasn’t sure when I’d see him again, or when he’d see his child.

Even though he was the foreign spouse of a British citizen (at that point, we had been married for more than five years) and the father of a British child, he had no right to accompany us when we relocated to the UK. This despite the protestations of friends and relatives, who felt sure we’d not done our research properly.

A minimum income threshold in order to apply for a spouse visa was introduced by Theresa May in 2012, but public consciousness of the policy – then as much as now – was low outside those people directly affected. It was set at £18,600 a year, but the devil was in the details.

As we dug deeper, we realised that I needed to produce six months of continuous payslips proving the income before a visa application could even be submitted. I had a job offer with a salary above the threshold waiting for me back in the UK, and my husband already earned above the threshold in India – yet this meant a “best-case” scenario of nine months apart in order to relocate our family from his home country to mine, once the visa processing time was taken into account.

In the end, our time apart was closer to a year. My husband missed our daughter’s first sentences, her transition out of a cot and her second birthday. In the process, she forgot the Hindi he’d lovingly sung and spoken to her since birth.

Commuting to a full-time job to meet the income requirement while in essence being a single parent meant that I too saw far less of her, and my mental health spiralled out of control. All of that time was spent wondering if we’d made the right choice.

In all of this, we were the lucky ones. Our application, while onerous and expensive, went through smoothly. Then, the basic fee for a two-and-a-half-year spousal visa was about £1,500. Now, it stands at £1,846.

After a small amount of lobbying, our local MP wrote a letter to the Home Office in support of our application, despite having voted in support of the policy. Crucially, my mother stepped in to care for our daughter and to prop me up emotionally.

Ultimately, we were reunited. Six years and three visas later, my husband has indefinite leave to remain, and we finally have a degree of security. Tragically, there are now children who have been separated for more than a decade from one of their parents, and couples who know there is no realistic possibility of them living in the same country. There will now be many more.

On 11 April, a new income threshold for spousal visas will come into place, set at £29,000. The threshold will go on to more than double from its original rate, rising to about £34,500 later this year, and then to about £38,700 in early 2025. This is part of the plan of the home secretary, James Cleverly, to reduce immigration. Migration Observatory research suggests that the new threshold means that about 50% of employed British citizens cannot “afford” to have a foreign spouse, which will rise to 70% by 2025.

The Home Office will tell you that this is to ensure “integration” and to avoid a burden on taxpayers. This is not true. Those on a spouse visa already have no recourse to public funds, pay an annual NHS surcharge and have the best possible support – a spouse – when adjusting to life in the UK. Separated families, on the other hand, struggle financially and emotionally, the collateral damage of a policy incomprehensible even to the MPs who voted for it.

I’m writing this in the early hours of the morning, having just relieved my husband from night duty caring for a toddler – our second child – who is feeling miserable with an ear infection. Night-wakings and poorly children are still very much a feature of family life. But we are doing it together, and we’ve never lost our sense of how precious, how essential, that is.

Families belong together. The spouse income threshold, unparalleled in any other country, means that our government stands in opposition to this fundamental and most sacred of rights.

Maegan Dobson Sippy is a children’s book editor and writer

• Parents and parenting
• Home Office

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• Visas and immigration
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Skilled Worker visa

Update your visa if you change job or employer.

You’ll need to apply to update your Skilled Worker or Tier 2 (General) work visa if:

• you want to change your job and your new job is with a different employer
• your job changes to a different occupation code, and you’re not in a graduate training programme
• you leave a job that’s on the immigration salary list for a job that is not on the list

You do not need to apply again if you stay in the same job, but your job is taken off the immigration salary list.

If you’ll be doing a different job for your current employer, you only need to apply to update your visa if your new job is in a different occupation code .

Your partner or children will need to apply separately to update their visa. They can either apply at the same time as you, or at any time before their current visa expires.

Check how much it costs for your type of visa.

You’ll also need to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken. There’s no fee for this.

Eligibility and documents you’ll need to apply

Your new job must meet the eligibility requirements and you’ll need a new certificate of sponsorship to prove this.

You may be able to meet lower salary requirements if either:

• you got your certificate of sponsorship for this visa application before 4 April 2024
• you got your certificate of sponsorship for your first Skilled Worker visa before 4 April 2024 and have continually held one or more Skilled Worker visas since then

You’ll only need to provide other evidence again if you’ve been in the UK for less than one year.

If you’re applying to add a second job to your current visa

You must apply to update your visa if you take on a second job that is more than 20 paid hours a week in addition to the job you’re being sponsored for.

Your second job must meet the eligibility requirements and you’ll need a new certificate of sponsorship to prove this.

You’ll also need to include a letter with your application explaining that you want to change your current permission to stay.

Your letter must state:

• your date of birth
• your current certificate of sponsorship reference number
• the date when your current permission to stay runs out

If your application is successful, you’ll get a new visa giving you permission to do both jobs.

You do not need to apply to update your visa if you’re taking on additional work that has an eligible occupation code or you’ll be doing less than 20 paid hours a week.

When to apply to update your visa

You can apply to update your visa up to 3 months before the start date of your new job.

You can continue working in your current job while your new application is being considered, or to work out your notice period - as long as you apply before your current visa expires.

You should not start your new job until you’ve got confirmation of your new permission.

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and the type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

• give your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services ( UKVCAS ) service point - this is to get a biometric residence permit
• use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply. You’ll also be told how to provide your supporting documents if you need to.

Apply to update your visa

You must apply online.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Continue your application

Find out how to sign in to your account .

How long it takes to get a decision

You’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks of your application date.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:

• your supporting documents need to be verified
• you need to attend an interview
• of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision - you’ll be told if you can when you apply.

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it contact UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) .

You can ask to cancel your application . You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application . This will explain what you need to do next.

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