Changing Employment on a UK Skilled Worker Visa: A Guide for Swiss Workers and Employers

Switzerland and the UK have strong economic ties, and many Swiss nationals work in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa. Whether you are already working in the UK and considering changing employers or looking to relocate for work, understanding the rules for changing employment under the Skilled Worker visa is essential. Similarly, Swiss businesses looking to hire skilled professionals in the UK must be aware of sponsor licence requirements. This guide answers key questions about changing employment under the Skilled Worker route for Swiss professionals and employers.

Can Swiss Skilled Worker Visa Holders Change Employers in the UK?

Yes, but if you are switching to a new employer, you must apply for a new Skilled Worker visa before you can start your new job. This requires obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your new employer. The new employer must also be on the Home Office’s Register of Licensed Sponsors and hold a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence.

Swiss professionals moving from one UK employer to another should ensure they receive their new visa approval before resigning from their current role. While waiting for a decision, they can continue working in their existing job, provided their visa remains valid.

What If My New Employer Does Not Have a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence?

If your prospective UK employer does not yet have a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence, they must obtain one before they can sponsor your visa application. Employers should apply for a Sponsor Licence as early as possible, as standard processing times can take up to 8 weeks. A priority service is available for faster processing within 10 working days, though it carries an additional fee of £500 per request.

For Swiss companies or UK employers looking to hire Swiss talent under the Skilled Worker route, understanding the Sponsor Licence application process is crucial. Employers must demonstrate their eligibility and provide evidence that they can meet compliance requirements.

Can I Stay With My Current Employer but Change Job Roles?

Swiss professionals already working in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa may change job roles with the same employer, but in some cases, they may need to submit a new Skilled Worker visa application. This applies if:

• The new role falls under a different Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code than the one on their current CoS.

• The previous role was on the Shortage Occupation List, but the new role is not.

If the new position remains within the same SOC code and the employer continues to hold a valid Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence, a new application is not required.

When Should I Resign From My Current Role?

Planning the transition from one employer to another is crucial. Swiss professionals in the UK should not resign until their new visa has been approved, as ceasing employment before securing a new visa could lead to visa curtailment by the Home Office. It is possible to work your notice period while waiting for a visa decision, provided the application was submitted before the current visa expires.

What Are the Requirements for a Skilled Worker Change of Employment Application?

If you are a Swiss professional looking to switch employers while on a Skilled Worker visa, you must meet the following conditions:

• A valid Certificate of Sponsorship from the new employer.

• A genuine job offer that meets UKVI standards.

• A job that is at an appropriate skill level.

• A salary that meets the minimum threshold for the Skilled Worker route.

• Evidence of English language proficiency (if not previously satisfied).

• Proof of financial stability, if you have been in the UK for less than 12 months.

What Are the Processing Times and Costs?

The standard processing time for a Skilled Worker change of employment application is 8 weeks. For those needing a quicker decision, a priority service is available at an additional cost.

Current Skilled Worker visa fees when applying in the UK are:

• £719 per person for up to 3 years.

• £1,423 per person for more than 3 years.

It is also worth noting that there is no maximum time limit on the Skilled Worker route, meaning Swiss professionals can continue extending their visa as long as they meet the requirements.

Can I Apply for UK Settlement After Changing Employers?

Swiss professionals working in the UK under a Skilled Worker visa can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence. A job change does not reset the ILR clock, but applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.

• Pass the Life in the UK test, unless exempt.

• Continue working for a Home Office-approved sponsor.

• Have a salary of at least the general salary threshold or the going rate for settlement as a Skilled Worker, whichever is higher.

How Can Swiss Employers Hire Skilled Workers in the UK?

Swiss companies expanding to the UK or Swiss employers seeking to recruit skilled Swiss nationals in the UK must ensure they comply with UK immigration regulations. The Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence is essential for hiring non-UK workers. Employers must also issue Certificates of Sponsorship and ensure they meet salary and compliance obligations.

If you are a Swiss employer looking to hire Swiss professionals under the Skilled Worker route, our business immigration barristers can guide you through the Sponsor Licence application and compliance requirements.

Contact Our Immigration Barristers for Expert Advice

Whether you are a Swiss professional in the UK considering a job change, a Swiss national looking to move to the UK, or a Swiss employer seeking to sponsor skilled workers, our experienced business immigration lawyers can assist you with your Skilled Worker visa and Sponsor Licence applications.

For professional advice and expert assistance, contact our immigration lawyers in Switzerland on +41 21 588 07 70 or complete our enquiry form.