Changing Employer on a Skilled Worker Visa

A new certificate of sponsorship comes first

The new employer must hold a sponsor licence and assign a certificate of sponsorship for the role. Until that is in place, an application to change employment cannot be made.

When a new application is required

A change of employer requires a new application. Changes of role within the same employer may also require one, depending on the occupation code and the terms on which the current visa was granted.

When you can start the new job

You generally cannot start the new sponsored role until the new application has been decided, although limited exceptions exist. Starting early risks both your status and your new employer’s licence, so take advice before agreeing a start date.

Salary, role and the current rules

The new role has to meet the requirements in force at the date of the new application, including the relevant salary threshold and occupation code, not the requirements that applied when your original visa was granted.

Where a solicitor helps

A solicitor checks the new role against the current requirements, advises on timing and start dates, prepares the application, and advises the employer on its sponsorship duties.