If you’re on a UK Skilled Worker visa, one question will eventually find you,  sometimes sooner than you expect: “Can I even switch jobs while I’m on this visa?”
And the funny thing? Nobody tells you the full gist until you’re already thinking of resigning, stressed about your workplace, or staring at a better offer, wondering if you should grab it.

So let’s talk about it properly, like I’m explaining it to a friend over a long voice note.

Yes, You Can Change Jobs, But It’s Not Automatic

The short answer is yes, you absolutely can switch jobs on a Skilled Worker visa. The long answer? It’s not as simple as saying “I quit” today and starting somewhere else tomorrow.

Your visa isn’t just a permission to live in the UK; it is tied to the company that sponsors you. That company issued your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), and that sponsorship is what legally allows you to work.

So if you change employers, you can’t just move. You must be sponsored again.

Your New Employer Must Be a Licensed Sponsor

This is the part people often forget or don’t know at all.
To switch jobs, your new employer must:

• Be on the Home Office list of approved sponsors, and

• Be willing to sponsor you under the Skilled Worker route.

Not every company in the UK can hire you. Even if they love your CV, even if they think you’re perfect for the role, if they don’t have a sponsor licence, they legally cannot employ you as a Skilled Worker.

And the process isn’t always quick. Some companies don’t want to deal with sponsorship at all, so be prepared for the possibility that a few good opportunities may not be open to you yet.

You’ll Need a New Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once the new employer confirms they are licensed, the next step is a new CoS, issued specifically for the role you’re taking.
This document must include details like:

• Your job title

• your salary

• the SOC code

• Your start date

And yes, all these details must comply with the Skilled Worker visa rules. The salary must meet the threshold, the job role must be eligible, and the job must be genuine.

You Must Apply to Update Your Visa Before You Start the New Job

This is the big rule that most people overlook or do not know. 
You cannot start your new job until the Home Office approves your visa update.

Even if your new employer is in a hurry.
Even if your current job is stressing you.
Even if the role is remote.

You must wait.

The application is similar to the first time you applied, though usually faster. Once approved, your visa is officially updated, and you can start working with the new employer.

Final Thoughts: It’s Possible, Just Prepare Ahead

So yes, switching jobs on a Skilled Worker visa is completely allowed. People do it all the time. The key is making sure the new employer is licensed, issuing a new CoS, and updating your visa before starting work.

If you ever feel stuck, confused, or under pressure at work, just remember:
You’re not trapped. You just need to follow the right steps.