This guide covers the Skilled Worker visa and the route to settlement. For the switch from a Student or Graduate visa and which subjects reach the salary, see student to Skilled Worker.
The Skilled Worker Visa — Overview
The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows overseas nationals to work in the UK in an eligible occupation with an approved employer sponsor. For Nepali graduates, transitioning from a Graduate visa to a Skilled Worker visa is the typical route to long-term UK residence.
Key Requirements
- A job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence
- The job must usually be at RQF level 6 (degree level) or above for new applications since 22 July 2025, with limited exceptions
- Salary must meet the general threshold (£41,700, or the going rate for the occupation if higher; GOV.UK, checked October 2026)
- English language requirement (usually already met from your student visa)
Path to ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
ILR is the UK equivalent of permanent residency. The typical timeline for Nepali graduates:
- Years 1–3: Student Visa ? Graduate Visa (2 years, or 18 months if you apply from 1 January 2027; this time does not count towards the 5-year settlement clock)
- Years 3–8: Skilled Worker Visa (must complete 5 years total qualifying residence)
- Year 8+: Apply for ILR
Note: time on the Graduate visa does not count towards the five-year Skilled Worker settlement period. It can count towards the separate 10-year long residence route. Settlement reforms have been proposed, so check GOV.UK before relying on any timeline.
Keep reading: Graduate Route visa guide · UK job market for graduates · After graduation page