How to Get a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK

Pursuing higher education in UK is an aspiration for many students. One of the biggest advantages is the opportunity to stay and work after completing your studies. The UK offers a Graduate Route Visa, commonly known as a post-study work visa, which allows students to work in the UK after their graduation. This visa provides international graduates with the chance to gain valuable work experience, explore career opportunities, and establish themselves in the UK job market. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you apply and understand the process thoroughly.

What is the Graduate Route Visa?

The Graduate Route Visa is designed for international students who have completed an eligible degree at a UK higher education institution. This visa allows graduates to stay in the UK for a specific period, enabling them to seek employment or work without requiring sponsorship from an employer. The duration of stay under this visa depends on the level of the degree completed:

• • 2 years if you have completed an undergraduate or master’s degree.
• • 3 years if you have completed a PhD or other doctoral qualification.

The Graduate Route Visa is particularly beneficial as it does not restrict applicants to a specific job type or salary threshold, giving them flexibility in their career choices. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to transition into a long-term skilled worker visa if they secure an appropriate role.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a UK post-study work visa, you must meet specific eligibility requirements from the UK Home Office. The key criteria include:

• • Completing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree at a recognized UK university.
• • Holding a valid Tier 4 (Student) visa at the time of application.
• • Studying at a higher education provider with a track record of compliance with UK immigration policies.

Your university must officially confirm your successful course completion to the UK Home Office before you apply. If you have not yet received official confirmation, you may need to contact your university’s admissions or international student support office.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, it is crucial to verify that your university is approved by the UK government for the Graduate Route Visa. Your academic records must reflect that you have successfully completed your degree, and this should be reported to the Home Office by your institution.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Having the right documents ready can make the application process smoother. You will need the following:

• • A valid passport that confirms your identity and nationality.
• • Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) was issued with your student visa.
• • CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number, the same one used for your initial student visa application.
• • An official letter or certificate from your university confirming successful course completion.

Ensuring that all documents are up-to-date and accurate is essential to avoid unnecessary delays in processing your application.

Step 3: Apply Online

Once you have gathered your documents, you must submit your application online via the UK Home Office website. The online form requires you to enter your details, upload necessary documents, and confirm your eligibility. Make sure to carefully review all information before submission.

• Step 4: Pay the Fees

The application process involves fees that must be paid during submission:

• • Visa application fee: £822.
• • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year of stay.

This means that for a 2-year Graduate Route Visa, the IHS fee will total £1,248, and for a 3-year visa, it will be £1,872. These fees must be paid in full at the time of application.

• 5.Scotland Saltire Scholarships

Funded by the Scottish Government for students from specific countries, including India.
Offers £8,000 towards tuition fees for one-year master’s programs in Scotland.
Fields of study include science, technology, creative industries, healthcare, and renewable energy.

• Step 6: Wait for Approval

The processing time for a post-study work visa is typically 8-12 weeks. You will receive an official decision via email. If your application is approved, you will be issued a new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) confirming your visa status and the duration of your stay.

What Can You Do on a Post-Study Work Visa?

The Graduate Route Visa allows international graduates to work freely in the UK. Some key benefits include:

• • The ability to work full-time in any job without requiring employer sponsorship.
• • The option to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa is available if you secure an eligible job role.
• • The opportunity to work self-employed or freelance opens avenues for entrepreneurship.
• • The flexibility to explore different industries, career paths, and potential long-term employment options.

However, it is important to note that the Graduate Route Visa does not lead directly to permanent residency. If you wish to stay in the UK long-term, you must transition to another visa category before your post-study work visa expires.

Important Things to Remember

• • The Graduate Route Visa is non-extendable, meaning you cannot renew it after the 2- or 3-year period ends.
• • Applications must be made from within the UK. If you leave the UK before applying, you may lose eligibility.
• • Once your visa expires, you must switch to another visa type (such as the Skilled Worker Visa) or leave the UK.

The UK post-study work visa is an excellent opportunity for graduates to gain work experience and enhance their career prospects. To ensure a smooth and successful application, make sure to apply on time, provide accurate documents, and follow the steps carefully. If you plan to extend your stay beyond the duration of your Graduate Route Visa, explore options such as the Skilled Worker Visa or other work-related visa categories.

For personalized guidance and expert support, consider consulting aEdfirst,the best study abroad consultant in Kochi, we can help navigate the application process and explore potential career pathways in the UK.