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Switching Your Visa in London (Student → Skilled Worker, Skilled Worker → ILR, etc.) 📝✨


Posts: 8
Topic starter
(@busayo)
Active Member
Joined: 3 months ago

If you’re already in London and planning to switch your visa, here’s a quick guide based on the most common scenarios Nigerians deal with:

👉🏾 Student → Skilled Worker
You can switch inside the UK if you find a sponsoring employer. Don’t wait until your student visa is about to expire — start early!

👉🏾 Skilled Worker → ILR (Settlement)
You usually need:
– 5 years continuous stay
– No long gaps outside the UK
– English test
– Life in the UK Test
– Good character requirement

👉🏾 Family Route → ILR
This one depends on your partner’s status and the 5-year or 10-year route.

👉🏾 Visitor → ANY other visa
Sadly, you usually can’t switch from a UK visitor visa to another visa inside the UK.

If anyone has successfully switched recently, please share how long your approval took ⏳. Times seem to vary a lot these days!


2 Replies
Posts: 7
(@alliboy)
Active Member
Joined: 3 months ago

To get your qualifications recognised, the UK NARIC service is a fantastic resource. It helps bridge the gap and makes your credentials more marketable! 📄💼


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Posts: 7
(@alliboy)
Active Member
Joined: 3 months ago

UK visa processes can be complex, especially with recent changes. Stay updated with official guidance and seek expert advice if needed. 📜🔑


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