Switching from Tier 4 (student visa) to Tier 2

[kmml]

Hello everyone,

I would like to get a clarification on the conditions for switching from a Tier 4 to a Tier 2. I have a UK masters degree but decided to proceed to a PHD after not getting a job. Now in my first year of my Phd (on which my current Tier 4 visa is based), I get a Graduate Job based on my Master degree qualification. Is it possible to switch at this point from my Tier 4 to the Tier 2 visa if the company is willing to sponsor?

In any case i will have to quit my Phd but my real question is: Is it the case that switching to Tier 2 from Tier 4 can only be done after completing the specific program on which my current Tier 4 is based or it really doesn't matter as long as I have a Tier 4 and a new Tier 2 employer willing to take on my sponsorship, without completing the degree for which I got my current Tier 4? Also, is it possible that my University sends a letter to home office if I want to quit my degree thereby preventing the switch?

Anyone with experience or ideas in this area, I will appreciate your inputs. Thanks!

[iworker]

in my opinion, you should be able to change your visa within uk, but rlmt may need to be done as your current student visa is not the one on which you completed a degree.
In any case, my best advise is, only quit the phd once u change the visas, and are starting the job.

[hollymoly]

I think you should be able to switch Tier 4 to Tier 2 as long as you meet those criteria.
Generally speaking, you do not need to carry out Resident Labour Market Test when switching Tier 4 to 2. 'Tier2 sponsor guidance' explains in detail about it. Personally, despite incompletion of phD, you have last granted as Tier 4 with your master degree. But I am no expert so perhaps discuss this with HR team in the company