Synopsis:
Losing your job on a UK Skilled Worker Visa affects your immigration status since the visa is tied to your employer. If employment ends, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) must be notified within 10 days, which may lead to visa curtailment. Upon receiving notification, you’ll typically have 60 days to either secure a new sponsoring employer, switch to an alternative visa, or leave the UK. Alternative visas include the Global Talent Visa, Scale-Up Visa, and Innovator Founder Visa, offering flexibility for staying in the UK. To remain on the Skilled Worker Visa route, you must find a new sponsor meeting skill and salary criteria, with continuous employment essential for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) eligibility. Immediate action within the 60-day period is critical for maintaining UK residency options.
Losing your job on a UK Skilled Worker Visa can significantly impact your immigration status. Your visa is tied to your job with a specific employer, and any job termination could affect your ability to stay in the UK. In this blog update, we will discuss the implications of losing your job, your options, and how to remain in the UK on the UK Sponsored Skilled Worker route.
Topics Discussed:
- Impact of job loss on your UK Work Visa
- Timeframe to take action after job termination
- Switching to alternative visa routes
- Staying on the UK Skilled Worker Visa
- Effect on Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application
Impact of Job Loss on Your UK Work Visa
If your employment ends, your UK Sponsored Skilled Worker visa may be curtailed or cancelled. Your employer is required to inform UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) within 10 working days, which could result in the loss of your UK Work Visa status unless you take immediate action.
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Timeframe to Take Action After Job Termination
Once UKVI is notified of your job termination, you will typically receive a letter granting you 60 days to either find a new job with a sponsoring employer, switch to another visa, or leave the UK. It’s important to act swiftly during this period to maintain your immigration status.
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Switching to Alternative Visa Routes
If you are unable to find a new sponsor within the UK Skilled Worker Visa route, several other immigration options are available:
- Global Talent Visa: For individuals with exceptional talent in areas like science, arts, or technology.
- Scale-Up Visa: Requires sponsorship from a company with a Scale-Up licence and a high-skill job offer.
- Innovator Founder Visa: For those with innovative business ideas seeking to establish a business in the UK.
These routes offer flexibility for staying in the UK after job loss.
Staying on the UK Skilled Worker Visa
If you wish to continue under the UK Skilled Worker Visa route, you can find a new employer willing to sponsor you. The employer must hold a sponsor licence, and the job must meet skill level and salary requirements. After obtaining a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), you can apply for continued permission to work in the UK.
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Effect on Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Application
Losing your job could affect your eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Continuous employment is required to apply for ILR under the UK Skilled Worker Visa. If you switch to another visa, you’ll need to verify whether your time on the Skilled Worker visa counts towards ILR.
Conclusion
Losing your job as a sponsored worker under the UK Skilled Worker Visa can be challenging, but acting within the 60-day window is crucial. Whether you find a new sponsor, switch to an alternative visa, or consider self-sponsorship, there are multiple paths to stay in the UK. With careful planning, you can continue working and secure your future in the UK.
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