United Kingdom · work · guide
Updating your UK Skilled Worker visa
This guide is for people on a UK Skilled Worker visa who are changing their job or employer.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 10 requirements on the official page, each checked against the government's own wording. Updated 2026-10-02. Source: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/update-your-visa-if-you-change-job-or-employer
Who needs to apply
You must apply to update your visa if you take on a second job that is more than 20 paid hours a week in addition to your sponsored job.[1]
Your new job must meet the eligibility requirements. You must also obtain a new certificate of sponsorship.[2]
How to apply
You must submit your application online.[3]
You must prove your identity as part of your application. You must also have your fingerprints and photo taken, for which there is no fee.[4][5]
If you are adding a second job, you must include a letter with your application. This letter must explain that you want to change your current permission to stay.[6]
Your partner or children must apply separately to update their visa.[7]
Travel and work restrictions
You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until you get a decision on your application.[8]
You must not start your new job until you have received confirmation of your new permission.[9]
Timing
You will usually receive a decision on your application within 8 weeks.[10]
Checklist
- Obtain a new certificate of sponsorship for your new job.[2]
- Submit your application online.[3]
- Prove your identity.[4]
- Have your fingerprints and photo taken.[5]
- Include an explanatory letter if you are adding a second job.[6]
Questions people ask
Can I start my new job straight away?
No. You must not start your new job until you have received confirmation of your new permission.[9]
How long does it take to get a decision?
You will usually receive a decision on your application within 8 weeks.[10]
Can I travel abroad while my application is pending?
No. You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until you get a decision on your application.[8]
Do my family members need to apply with me?
Your partner or children must apply separately to update their visa.[7]
Do I need to update my visa if I take a second job?
You must apply to update your visa if you take on a second job that is more than 20 paid hours a week in addition to your sponsored job.[1]
How much does it cost to have my fingerprints and photo taken?
There is no fee to have your fingerprints and photo taken.[5]
This explains what one official page says. It is not legal advice, and the page itself is the authority. Rules change; the wire reports it when they do.