Post-studies Work

There are various pathways for international graduates aiming to remain in the UK post-graduation. Here, we outline the Graduate Route visa and the Skilled Worker route offered by the UK government.

It's advisable to explore further options that might align better with the student’s circumstances through the GOV.UK website, where you'll find a range of visas, including short and long-term ones, catering to specific professions like healthcare.

The Graduate Route

The Graduate Route in the UK offers post-graduation work opportunities for international students without the need for employer sponsorship. Graduates completing undergraduate or master’s degrees can stay for up to two years, while PhD graduates can extend this to three years, allowing them to explore career options in the UK.

This route provides flexibility for employment at varying skill levels, such as gaining work experience, freelance work, or internships. There’s no fixed salary requirement, and the number of applicants isn’t restricted. Importantly, graduates aren't tied to specific jobs or employers and can have multiple jobs of different skill levels and switch roles during the visa period.

Transitioning from this route to skilled work in the UK is an option, providing an opportunity to extend your stay after the initial two or three years.

To apply, there's an application fee of £822 and an annual £624 Immigration Health Surcharge. Detailed information about the Graduate Route is available on GOV.UK and the UKCISA websites, covering application procedures, requirements, and additional guidance. Although it’s possible to transition to the Skilled Worker route from the Graduate Route, the reverse isn’t possible.

Skilled Worker route

The Skilled Worker visa allows individuals to reside in the UK with an approved employer and job that meets certain requirements. This includes a job offer with a minimum salary threshold of £20,960 per year, £10.75 per hour, or the appropriate 'going rate' for the position, whichever is higher. The job must also meet specific skill criteria outlined by the UK government, detailed in the Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations, with tables listing eligible jobs.

For comprehensive guidance on the Skilled Worker route, including application procedures, requirements, and FAQs, you can refer to the UKCISA website.

Regarding costs, fees for this route vary, ranging from £719 to £1,500 depending on circumstances such as the applicant's location, the type of visa switch, employer size, and whether the employer holds a sponsor license. Generally, employers, particularly larger organizations, cover these expenses. However, it's advisable to discuss this matter upfront with your employer if considering this pathway.