Government Authorised Exchange visa (Temporary Work)

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Switch to this visa

You can apply to change (‘switch’) to a Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange visa.

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You can apply if you’re a:

  • student, whether studying, resitting an examination or writing a thesis

  • student union sabbatical officer

  • student nurse

  • postgraduate doctor or dentist

  • student visa holder (including Tier 4)

You must have completed a UK bachelor’s or master’s degree during your last grant of leave.

The work, training or research you’re being sponsored to do in the UK also needs to be related to that degree. It can be:

  • postgraduate training or work experience that will give you a professional qualification or registration in the same field

  • an internship for up to 12 months that’s related to your degree

You must also meet the other eligibility requirements.

Fees

Check the fees for your visa.

How to switch your visa

You must apply online.

Your partner and children

Your partner or child’s visa will not automatically switch to this visa if you switch yours. If they do not switch their visa, it will be valid until its original end date. They can either apply at the same time as you, or at any time before their current visa expires.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents. You can:

  • upload them into the online service
  • have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

How long it takes

A decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service.

If you use the super priority service a decision will be made:

  • by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS appointment if your appointment is on a weekday
  • 2 working days after your UKVCAS appointment if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example:

  • if your supporting documents need to be verified
  • if you need to attend an interview
  • because of your personal circumstances, for example you have a criminal conviction
View a printable version of the whole guide

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