What is the current rule for post graduate work visa in the UK?
The UK offers a post-graduate work visa known as the Graduate Route, which allows international students to stay in the UK to work or look for work after they have successfully completed a degree at an eligible UK higher education provider. Here are the key details about the Graduate Route:
Key Features of the Graduate Route
1. Eligibility:
You must have successfully completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider that is a licensed student sponsor.
The course must be at the undergraduate level or above (such as a bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible qualifications).
You must have a valid Tier 4 (General) student visa or a Student visa at the time of application.
2. Duration:
The Graduate Route visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 2 years after completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
PhD graduates can stay for up to 3 years.
3. Work Flexibility:
The Graduate Route visa is unsponsored, meaning you do not need a job offer to apply.
You can work in most jobs, look for work, be self-employed, and undertake voluntary work.
You are allowed to switch jobs and employers without needing additional visa permission.
4. Dependents:
Dependents who are already in the UK as your Tier 4 or Student visa dependents can apply to stay in the UK under the Graduate Route.
5. Application Process:
You must apply online after successfully completing your course.
You will need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the application process.
The application fee for the Graduate Route is £715.
You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year of the visa.
6. No Requirement for Proof of Funds:
Unlike some other visa categories, you do not need to show proof of funds for your living expenses.
7. Switching to Other Visas:
After the Graduate Route visa expires, you can switch to other visas if you meet the eligibility criteria, such as the Skilled Worker visa, Innovator visa, or Global Talent visa.
Application Timeline and Important Points
You can apply for the Graduate Route as soon as your university confirms that you have successfully completed your course.
It is important to apply before your current Student visa expires.
You cannot apply for this visa from outside the UK; you must be in the UK to apply.
Useful Resources
UK Government Official Guidance on Graduate Route: Graduate Route
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Information: IHS Information
The Graduate Route provides a valuable opportunity for international graduates to gain work experience in the UK, enhancing their employability and career prospects both in the UK and globally.
Note: A student is allowed post graduate work visa only once in his lifetime. Which means, if an international student has used this post his UG in UK, he cannot get this if he were to do a PG in UK later.