If you want to keep graduates after their Graduate visa ends, you'll normally need to transition them to a Skilled Worker visa. Here's how.

1. Track the graduate visa expiry date 

Check when your employee’s Graduate visa ends. Set reminders at least 3 months before expiry. This lets you start the transition process in time. 

2. Make sure your sponsorship license is valid 

Make sure your business holds a valid A-rated sponsor license. If not, apply for one on gov.uk. 

3. Verify Job eligibility and salary 

Confirm that the role: 

  • Is eligible under the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code  
  • Meets the minimum salary requirements 

As new entrants, graduates get a salary discount.  

However, when they transition to a Skilled Worker visa and no other discount applies, you should offer either: 

  • The job’s ‘going rate’ of at least £38,700 
  • The minimum hourly rate  

You need to offer whichever is higher of the two. 

4. Provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) 

Give your worker a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This costs £239. The CoS proves your sponsorship and includes details of the job offer. 

5. Check that the worker has B1 English 

Check that the employee meets the B1 English requirement. Depending on their nationality they need to have passed a valid test or degree taught in English. They can prove this through their degree from a UK university.  

6. Make sure the worker meets the financial requirements  

Check that the employee has enough savings to meet the financial requirement. Or, certify their maintenance on the CoS. 

7. Guide the employee through the Skilled Worker visa application 

Help the graduate to apply online. Key costs include: 

  • Visa fee: £827 (up to 3 years) or £1,636 (over 3 years). 
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year. 
  • Many employers choose to cover the IHS as a way to support the employee. 

8. Pay the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) 

The charge is: 

  • £364 per year for small businesses/charities 
  • £1,000 per year for larger businesses 

9. Do a fresh right to work check 

Once the visa is granted, do a new right to work check. Keep the updated documentation in your records. 

10. Plan to keep the employee long-term  

After 5 years on the Skilled Worker visa, the worker should apply to renew the visa. Or they may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This lets them live in the UK permanently. It means you can keep them working for you long-term.