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It is easier to switch from the Student visa to the Skilled Worker visa. Here is why:

• More employers are willing to sponsor international students, who can switch to the Skilled Worker visa in the UK directly from their Student visa once their courses are complete. This is because, in this case, your sponsor is exempt from paying the Immigration Skills Charge, which is currently £1000 per year for a large employer, shortly to be increased to £1320 per year. Your employer will save at least £5000, compared to employing someone who switches from a different visa or applies from outside the UK.
• Switching from a Student visa qualifies you for a salary discount for up to 4 years, during which your salary will increase, and you will qualify for a Skilled Worker visa extension more easily. That's why it's important to start applying for visa-sponsored graduate jobs ONE YEAR before your course end date, so that you can switch to the Skilled Worker visa and start working as soon as your course finishes.