Introduction

T2 visa holders who wish to switch to the Tier 2 (General) visa, also known as the "skilled worker visa" must go through a specific process to obtain the new visa. The question that often arises is: how long does it take to convert from T2 visa to the Tier 2 (General) visa? In this article, we will discuss the different steps involved in switching visas and the time expectations for each step.

Step 1: Job Offer

The first and most important step in switching from a T2 visa to the Tier 2 (General) visa is finding a job. The applicant must receive a job offer from a UK employer that is willing to sponsor their visa. The job offer must meet the minimum requirements of the Tier 2 (General) visa, including the minimum salary threshold. Once the job offer is secured, the employer must obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from the Home Office.

This step can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the job market and the employer's hiring process. Therefore, the timing may vary from person to person.

It is important to note that obtaining a job offer does not guarantee the issuance of a Tier 2 (General) visa. The applicant must still meet all the other requirements and pass the necessary tests and checks.

Step 2: Submitting the Visa Application

Once the job offer and the COS are obtained, the applicant can proceed to the visa application process. The applicant must complete an online visa application form and attend an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide their biometric information and supporting documents.

The applicant must also pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the specific situation. The standard processing time for the Tier 2 (General) visa application is three weeks. However, expedited processing is available for an additional fee, which can reduce the processing time to as little as 24 hours.

It is important to note that the processing time may vary depending on the workload of the Home Office and the complexity of the application.

Step 3: Visa Approval and Travel

Once the visa application is processed, the applicant will receive a decision on their application. If the visa is approved, the applicant will receive a vignette in their passport, which is valid for 30 days. This vignette allows the applicant to travel to the UK and collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

The BRP is the official proof of the applicant's right to work and live in the UK and will be valid for the duration of their visa. The process of receiving the BRP can take up to 10 working days from the applicant's arrival in the UK.

It is important to note that the applicant must arrive in the UK within the validity of the vignette and collect their BRP within ten days of arrival. Failure to do so can result in the cancellation of the visa.

Conclusion

Switching from a T2 visa to the Tier 2 (General) visa is a process that requires a job offer, a COS, and a successful visa application. While the time it takes to complete each step can vary, the standard processing time for a Tier 2 (General) visa application is three weeks. It is important to plan ahead and ensure that all deadlines are met to avoid any delays or complications in the visa process.