Transpondia Immigration FAQ ©

Transpondia Immigration FAQ ©



Switching Rules for Working Holiday Makers
What the rules say...

You cannot extend your stay as a working holidaymaker. However, you may be eligible to switch into work permit employment after 12 months in the UK if your occupation is on the list of 'shortage occupations'. Working holidaymakers can also apply to stay in the UK as 'Innovators' and in the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP). You can find out more about these schemes and a list of shortage occupations on the 'Working in the UK' website: Working in the UK
(--Extract from UKVisas)


As to other categories, we can offer the following break-down. Working Holiday Makers may switch within the rules to the following visa categories:
  • Visitor (for a short period after the WHM completes and the application is approved)
  • Student (if not a visa-national, and the application is approved)
  • Spouse (if a Certificate of Approval is obtained first)
  • Unmarried Partner (if not a visa-national, and the application is approved)
  • Innovator


Working Holiday Makers may not switch into the following categories:
  • Work permit (unless the job is on the list of designated shortage occupations and the applicant has been in the UK for 12 months).
  • Permit-free employment
  • Business, self-employed, independent means, and investor
  • Fiance
  • Au pair
  • Indefinite leave


Notes:
  • Because a switch is permitted under the rules does not mean that an application will automatically be successful.
  • Applications to switch should be made before the WHM visa expires.
  • Applications in some of the categories where switching is not permitted may be successful if there are compelling reasons for a concession to be granted.
  • Switching into HSMP may be successful in some cases.
  • A Working Holiday Maker wishing to switch should consult an advisor because these rules are subject to frequent changes.
If you are in the UK as a Working Holiday Maker and want to discuss your situation with a professional adviser in the non-exempt sector, click here.
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