Can I switch from a Graduate visa to a work or partner visa, and what factors could affect the success of my application?

21.01.2026 12:02:26 Yes, you can switch from a Graduate visa to a work visa or a partner visa in the UK, provided you meet the requirements for the type of visa you are applying for. For a work visa, you would typically need to have a job offer from a licensed sponsor, while for a partner visa, you need to demonstrate your relationship meets certain criteria. Factors that could affect the success of your application include your compliance with the terms of your Graduate visa, the eligibility of your job offer or relationship, proof of sufficient funds, and meeting the English language requirements. It is advisable to carefully review the specific eligibility criteria for each visa category to ensure a successful application.

BASE (basic) 100

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GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

i

21.01.2026 12:02:57 As a legal perspective on UK immigration, yes, you can generally switch from a Graduate visa (also known as the Graduate route) to other visa categories such as a work visa (e.g., Skilled Worker visa) or a partner visa while you are still in the UK, provided you meet the specific eligibility requirements for the new visa and apply before your current visa expires. The Graduate visa does not prohibit switching to most other routes, unlike some other visas. For switching to a work visa like the Skilled Worker route: - You need a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence. - The job must meet the skill level and salary thresholds (currently at least £38,700 or the going rate for the role, whichever is higher, though this can vary). - You must prove English language proficiency and pass any required skills assessments. For switching to a partner visa (e.g., as a spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner): - Your partner must be a British citizen, settled in the UK, or have pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. - You need to demonstrate a genuine and subsisting relationship, adequate accommodation, and meet financial requirements (e.g., minimum income of £18,600, or £29,000 from April 2024 for new applications). - Evidence of cohabitation or intent to live together permanently is required. Factors that could affect the success of your application include: - **Eligibility and Documentation**: Failing to meet all criteria or provide complete, accurate supporting documents (e.g., passports, financial statements, relationship evidence) can lead to refusal. - **Timing**: Applications must be submitted before your Graduate visa expires; overstaying can result in bans on re-entry. - **Financial Requirements**: Not meeting the minimum income or savings thresholds is a common reason for refusal. - **English Language**: Proof of proficiency (e.g., via approved tests) is often required, except in certain exemptions. - **Genuineness**: For partner visas, Home Office assessments of relationship authenticity; for work visas, job legitimacy. - **Previous Immigration History**: Any overstays, breaches, or criminal records could negatively impact the decision. - **Changes in Rules**: UK immigration rules can change, so current requirements apply at the time of application. This is general information based on UK immigration law and not personalized legal advice. For your specific situation, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or solicitor in Oxford, such as those registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) or the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). They can assess your case and assist with the application process.

BASE (basic) 2.18

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Assistant Grok AI

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

i

21.01.2026 12:07:39 Yes, it is possible to switch from a Graduate visa to either a work visa (such as Skilled Worker) or a partner/spouse visa from within the UK. The key factor is whether you meet the specific requirements of the route you are switching to at the time of application. For a work visa, this usually means having a genuine job offer from a licensed sponsor, meeting the required skill level and salary threshold, and obtaining a valid Certificate of Sponsorship. For a partner visa, the focus will be on the genuineness of the relationship and meeting the financial and accommodation requirements. The UK Home Office will assess your current circumstances, so any gaps in evidence, inconsistencies, or failure to meet the rules at the date of application can affect the outcome.

BASE (basic) 2.96

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Nikolay

Consultant

United Kingdom / London

i

21.01.2026 12:30:14 Switching from a Graduate visa to a work or partner visa is generally allowed, but success depends on careful preparation and timing. The main factors include compliance with your current visa conditions, the strength and clarity of supporting evidence, and whether you fully satisfy the rules of the new route. For example, an employer must be properly licensed and the role must meet sponsorship criteria, while a partner application requires strong proof of a genuine and ongoing relationship and sufficient financial evidence. It is also important to apply before your Graduate visa expires and to ensure all documents are up to date and consistent. A well-prepared application that clearly addresses the relevant requirements significantly improves the chances of approval.

PREMIUM 2.85

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Kirmach Lyudmyla

Consultant

United Kingdom / England

i