Which is better for career growth? How to switch from ICT Visa to Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker Visa and the Intra-company Transfer Visa were both introduced after Brexit. They allow foreign nationals (non-British or Irish citizens) to come and work in the UK. Understanding the distinctions and overlap between these two visa options is crucial for employers and employees alike.
Differences between the two visas
The Skilled Worker Visa is for migrants who intend to come to the UK and take up a permanent role, while the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) is for people already employed by a company that has a UK branch.
Purpose & Eligibility
- ICT Visa: Designed for employees of multinational companies transferring from an overseas branch to the UK. Requires at least 12 months of prior employment with the company (unless earning above £73,900).
- Skilled Worker Visa: Allows foreign nationals to work in the UK with a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer. Job must meet skill and salary criteria, typically starting at £25,600.
Financial Requirements
- ICT Visa: Higher salary threshold (typically £41,500 or more) and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payments.
- Skilled Worker Visa: Lower salary threshold (around £25,600, or less for shortage roles), making it more financially accessible.
Career Growth and Opportunities for Indian Nationals
The ICT Visa is ideal for short-term experience in UK-based operations. It allows building company-specific skills and networking within the same organization but limits job mobility as it is tied to the sponsoring company.
The Skilled Worker Visa offers broader opportunities for job changes and industry mobility, making it ideal for long-term career growth in the UK. It supports advancement to senior roles and entrepreneurship, with a direct path to permanent residency, enhancing career prospects.
For long-term growth, the Skilled Worker Visa is more flexible and stable, while the ICT Visa suits short-term experience and company-specific roles.
Switching from ICT to Skilled Worker Visa.
Since December 1, 2020, individuals on an Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa can switch to the Skilled Worker visa from within the UK—a change from the previous system.
Is there a Cooling-off Period ?
No. The 12-month cooling-off period for reapplying under Tier 2 (ICT or General) was abolished in 2020, simplifying the process.
Skilled Worker Requirements:
To switch to the Skilled Worker route, applicants must:
- Have a UK job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer
- Ensure the role meets skill (RQF level 3 or above) and salary requirements (at least £25,600)
- Meet English language (CEFR B1) and maintenance requirements.
Cost of the Application Process:
Applying from Outside the UK:
- Up to 3 years: £719 per person
- More than 3 years: £1,423 per person
Applying from Inside the UK (extend/switch/update):
- Up to 3 years: £827 per person
- More than 3 years: £1,636 per person
Additionally, the Immigration Health Surcharge, Certificate of Sponsorship fee (£199), and Immigration Skills Charge apply.
Do my dependents need to re-apply?
No. Dependent partners and children of Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa don’t need to apply for new permission to stay right away. Their current dependent status remains valid until it’s close to expiring.
Will I be eligible for settlement?
YES. The Skilled Worker route leads to settlement after five years. Time spent under ICT does not count but can apply towards the 10-year Long Residence settlement.
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