International students in the UK have several pathways to remain and work in the country after completing their studies. The two most common options are the Graduate Visa and the Skilled Worker Visa. Understanding these options is crucial for students looking to leverage their education into a successful career in the UK.
Graduate Visa
The Graduate Visa is designed specifically for international students who have completed a degree at a UK institution. It allows them to stay and work in the UK for a limited time, providing an excellent opportunity to gain work experience.
Key Points about the Graduate Visa:
Eligibility: Students can apply for the Graduate Visa after successfully completing a UK bachelor's degree or higher at a Home Office-approved institution.
Duration: The visa permits a stay of 2 years for bachelor's and master's graduates, and 3 years for PhD graduates.
Application Requirements: Applicants must hold a valid Student or Tier 4 visa at the time of application and must not have previously been on the Doctorate Extension Scheme or the Graduate route.
Unsponsored Nature: Importantly, this visa does not require a job offer, allowing holders to work in most jobs, be self-employed, or switch jobs without restrictions.
No Salary Threshold: There is no minimum salary requirement, making it easier for graduates to explore various job opportunities.
The application process is straightforward. Students must apply online while still in the UK, using their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number from their Student Visa. The processing time typically takes up to 8 weeks.
Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the primary pathways for long-term employment in the UK. International students can apply for this visa directly after graduation if they secure a job offer from a sponsoring employer, or they may transition to it after their Graduate Visa expires with a sponsoring employer.
Key Points about the Skilled Worker Visa:
Eligibility: Applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a Skilled Worker sponsor licence. They also need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) detailing their job role.
Duration and Extension: The Skilled Worker Visa can be issued for up to 5 years, with options to extend or apply for indefinite leave to remain after this period.
Salary Requirements: As of the latest update, applicants must meet a minimum salary threshold of £38,700 per year or the "going rate" for their specific occupation, whichever is higher.
English Proficiency: A demonstration of English language proficiency is required, typically at least at level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Financial Stability: Applicants must show they have sufficient personal savings unless covered by their employer as part of their sponsorship1.
Skilled Worker Visa - New Entrant
For recent graduates or those under 26 years old, there is a provision known as the New Entrant category under the Skilled Worker Visa. This category offers more lenient salary requirements:
Lower Salary Thresholds: New entrants can be paid less than the standard minimum salary. You can be paid 70% of your job's standard going rate if your salary will be at least £30,960 per year.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify as a New Entrant, applicants must be under 26 years old, studying, or have recently graduated. They can also include those in professional training or those who have completed an eligible UK degree within the past two years.
This pathway allows young professionals to enter the workforce without being burdened by high salary expectations immediately after graduation.
Conclusion
By understanding these visa options—Graduate and Skilled Worker—international students can effectively plan their careers in the UK. The Graduate Visa offers immediate opportunities post-study without job offers or salary constraints. The Skilled Worker Visa, on the other hand, provides a structured pathway toward long-term residency and career development within the UK job market, with the option to apply directly after graduation if a sponsoring job offer is secured.
It's important to note that while the Graduate Visa offers flexibility, some international students may prefer to apply directly for a Skilled Worker Visa if they secure a sponsoring employer, as this can provide more immediate long-term security.
Navigating these options with clarity will empower international students to make informed decisions about their futures in the UK after graduation.
updated: 28-Oct-2024