Suppose you’re living in the UK on a UK partner visa. In that case, you may be thinking about switching to a skilled worker visa, especially if your circumstances have changed or if you’re ready to build your career more independently.
But before you make the switch, it’s important to understand both the benefits and the potential challenges. This article breaks it all down in simple terms to help you decide what’s best for your future.
What’s a UK Partner Visa?
A Partner Visa (also known as a Spouse or Unmarried Partner Visa) lets you live in the UK with your British or settled partner. It lasts 2.5 years and can be extended. After 5 years, you can usually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is a big step towards becoming a permanent UK resident.
What’s a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to work in the UK if you have a job offer from an approved UK employer. Like the Partner Visa, it also offers a route to ILR after 5 years, but your status is tied to your job, not your relationship.
Why People Switch: The Advantages
#1 – You Gain Independence:
On a Partner Visa, your stay in the UK depends on your relationship. If that relationship breaks down, your visa could be at risk. But with a Skilled Worker Visa, you’re independent. Your stay is tied to your job, not your partner.
#2 – More Career Opportunities:
A Skilled Worker Visa can open doors in industries like healthcare, IT, and finance. Employers often prefer candidates they can sponsor, which could lead to better job offers and career growth.
#3 – Still a Path to Settlement:
Even if you switch, you can still apply for ILR after 5 years, just through the Skilled Worker route instead of the Partner one. It’s a fresh start if you need it.
#4 – Peace of Mind in Your Personal Life:
Life happens—relationships change. If you’re going through a tough time personally, switching visas means you’re not stuck worrying about losing your right to stay in the UK.
#5 – Your Rights Stay the Same:
You’ll still have access to the NHS, and your children can still go to school. You can also bring dependents with you on your new visa.
Also Read: Fee Waiver Application to Home Office UKVI
Disadvantages:
#1 – You May Have to Start Over:
If you’ve already spent time on a Partner Visa, switching means your ILR timeline resets. You’ll need to spend another 5 full years on the Skilled Worker Visa before you can apply.
#2 – Now You Rely on Your Employer:
Instead of relying on a partner, you’re now relying on your job. If you lose it, you only have 60 days to find a new sponsor or leave the UK.
#3 – It Can Get Expensive:
There are fees for the visa, the Immigration Health Surcharge, and maybe even legal help. If you’re switching with family, costs can add up fast.
#4 – You Can’t Just Change Jobs:
You need permission to change sponsors. So even if a better job comes along, you’ll need to apply for a new visa. That can take time and effort.
#5 – Still No Access to Public Funds:
Just like with the Partner Visa, you won’t be able to claim benefits like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
Also Read: UK Visa Requirements for Turkish Citizens (2025)
Key Considerations Before Switching:
#1 – Are You Eligible?
To switch to a Skilled Worker Visa, you must:
- Have a valid job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Be offered a job that meets the skill and salary requirements
- Pass the English language requirement (if not already met under Partner Visa)
#2 – Are You Close to a Settlement?
If you’re only a few months away from completing 5 years on a Partner Visa, it may be wiser to stay on your current route and apply for ILR rather than start over.
#3 – Are You Prepared for Employer Dependency?
The Skilled Worker Visa ties you to your employer. Ensure the company is stable, committed to sponsoring your visa, and offers career growth.
Also Read: Process to Get a UK Work Permit Visa For EU and Non-EU Citizens
Conclusion:
Switching from a UK partner visa to a skilled worker visa can be a smart, empowering move, especially if you want more independence or your personal life has taken a new turn. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
At My Legal Services, we understand that every visa journey is personal. Whether you’re looking to switch visas due to career opportunities or changes in your relationship, our experienced immigration solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way.