Switching from Tier 2 Dependent to Tier 2 General Visa in the UK

If you're considering a switch from a Tier 2 Dependent visa to a Tier 2 General visa in the UK, there are specific requirements and conditions you need to meet. This guide will cover the eligibility criteria, sponsorship process, application procedures, and timing considerations to help you navigate through the visa switching process effectively.

Eligibility for Switching Vias

To switch from a Tier 2 Dependent visa to a Tier 2 General visa, you must:

Have a job offer from a UK employer holding a valid Tier 2 sponsor license. The job must be at the appropriate skill level and meet the minimum salary threshold.

Sponsorship Requirements

Your employer must provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the position you are applying for. This document is essential as it proves your eligibility to work in the UK under Tier 2 General categories.

Application Process

When applying for the Tier 2 General visa, you will need to submit the following:

Biometric information, including a digital photograph and fingerprints (unless exempt). Supporting documents such as passport, CoS, job offer, and proof of financial means.

The completed application should be submitted to UK Visas and Immigration. Ensure that you provide all necessary supporting documents to avoid delays.

Immigration Health Surcharge

Applicants may need to pay the immigration health surcharge as part of the application process. This fee helps cover the cost of essential NHS services provided within the UK.

Timing and Considerations

To avoid any potential issues, it is advisable to apply before your current Tier 2 Dependent visa expires. Make sure to adhere to all eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth application process.

Specific Conditions for Tier 2 Dependent Visa Holders

It is important to note that for Tier 2 dependant visa holders, switching to a Tier 2 General visa within the UK is not possible. The only visa types that can be switched while in the UK are Tier 1 visas and the Tier 2 Sportsperson visa.

In most cases, if you want to switch to a Tier 2 General visa, you must leave the UK and apply from abroad based on sponsorship received. The UK government website offers comprehensive guidance on switching to Tier 2 General, which you can access here: General work visa Tier 2.

According to the UK government's specific page on switching to Tier 2 General, the following visa holders are eligible to apply:

Tier 1 visa holders Tier 2 Sportsperson visa holders Tier 2 Minister of religion visa holders Tier 2 Intra company Transfer visa holders under the Immigration Rules in place before 6 April 2010, and you are changing sponsor Tier 4 visa holders with an eligible qualification, if you complete your course in 3 months or have done at least 12 months of a PhD Start-up visa holders Innovator visa holders Dependent partners of someone with a Tier 4 visa Representatives of overseas businesses

As you can see, a Tier 2 dependent is not included in this list. Therefore, if you are a Tier 2 dependent visa holder, you must leave the UK and make your Tier 2 General application from abroad, as per the government guidelines.

To stay updated with the latest regulations and advice, you should visit the UK government's official website or consult with an immigration advisor. They can provide you with the most current information and assistance tailored to your specific situation.