Changing jobs on a Skilled Worker visa: does your ILR clock reset?

The definitive answer — and why people get confused

This is the single most Googled immigration question among Skilled Worker visa holders in the UK. And the confusion is understandable — because the answer is nuanced enough that even people who've read the gov.uk guidance aren't always sure.

Here is what the Home Office guidance actually says: continuous residence for ILR purposes means continuous lawful leave to remain in the UK on a qualifying route. Changing employers does not break continuous leave, as long as:

1. Your new job is also sponsored under the Skilled Worker route
2. There is no gap in your lawful leave (your new CoS is in place before your current leave ends)
3. You are not working in the gap period without authorisation

The 60-day grace period — what it means

If you lose your job (or resign), you have a 60-day grace period during which your leave technically continues. During this period you can look for a new sponsor. You must not work during this period unless your new CoS is in place.

Importantly: this grace period does not extend your qualifying period. If the 60 days straddles your ILR eligibility date, you should take advice on whether you can still apply.

What about switching visa routes entirely?

If you switch from Skilled Worker to Global Talent, for example, your qualifying period generally continues — both are settlement-leading routes. However the qualifying period for Global Talent may be different (3 years for Exceptional Talent endorsement vs 5 years for Exceptional Promise).

If you switch from Skilled Worker to a route that doesn't lead to settlement (e.g. a Visitor visa, or a Student visa without subsequent qualifying employment), your ILR clock pauses or resets. Take advice if you're considering this.

Under Earned Settlement — does the job change matter more?

Under the proposed Earned Settlement framework (expected Autumn 2026), salary thresholds become qualifying factors. If your new job comes with a salary above £50,270 or £125,140, and you maintain that for 3 years, you could qualify for significant reductions in your qualifying period.

A job change that increases your salary to above these thresholds could therefore accelerate your ILR eligibility under the new rules — not just leave it unchanged. This is the job change impact VisaClockUK models in your dashboard.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to tell the Home Office I've changed jobs?

Your new employer will assign you a new Certificate of Sponsorship and you'll need to apply for a new Skilled Worker visa (or a change of employer, depending on your circumstances). The Home Office is notified through this process. You don't separately notify them of a job change.

Can I start my new job before my new visa is approved?

Generally no. You need valid leave to work for your new employer. The exception is if you are applying to change employment within the 60-day grace period or using a "3C leave" extension while your application is pending. This is a complex area — seek advice if you're unsure.

What documents does my new employer need?

Your new employer needs to be registered on the Register of Licensed Sponsors, conduct a right-to-work check, and assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship. They should also understand that your ILR clock continues from your original UK entry date, which is relevant for when you'll need HR support for your ILR application.

For planning purposes only. Not legal advice. Always consult a qualified UK immigration solicitor before making job change decisions. Privacy · Terms