Congratulations on completing your studies in the UK! Now, the exciting question arises: what’s next? For many international graduates, the answer lies in the Graduate visa as it allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD holders) to work, gain valuable experience, and explore career opportunities.
Graduate Visa UK
The UK Graduate Visa enables international students to remain and work in the United Kingdom after completing their education. Introduced in 2021, this visa intends to attract global talent while also providing graduates with the opportunity to get professional experience and contribute to the UK economy. It allows qualifying international graduates to stay in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to work or seek employment. The visa is not tied to a specific firm, enabling graduates the freedom to choose their future routes.
A Graduate Visa provides significant flexibility, allowing individuals to work in various jobs, actively seek employment opportunities, travel freely within and outside the UK, live with family, and contribute to their community through voluntary work.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Graduate Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have finished an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in the United Kingdom or another suitable qualification.
- Be in the UK.
- You must have a valid Student Visa at the time you apply.
- Your course must have been completed at a Higher Education Provider with a proven track record of compliance.
- Your university must inform UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that you have completed your course.
Application Process
To apply for the Graduate Visa, create an online account on the UKVI website (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration), provide biometric information (fingerprints and photo), pay the £715, annual Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and submit supporting documents like passport, proof of identity, and university graduation confirmation. Wait for a decision, which typically takes 8 weeks.
Upon completion of your Graduate Visa, you can transition to a skilled worker visa or a start-up or innovator visa if you secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Graduate Visa UK
1. What is the UK Graduate Visa?
The UK Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed a degree in the UK to stay in the country for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to work or look for work.
2. How long can I stay in the UK on the Graduate Visa?
You can stay for up to two years if you completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. If you completed a PhD or other doctoral qualification, you can stay for three years.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for the Graduate Visa?
To be eligible, you must:
- Have completed a degree at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.
- Hold a valid Student Visa at the time of application.
- Your university must confirm that you have completed your course.
4. Can I bring my dependents on the Graduate Visa?
Yes, if your dependents were already with you under your Student Visa, they can also apply to stay on the Graduate Visa.
5. Can I work in any job with the Graduate Visa?
Yes, the Graduate Visa allows you to work in any job, including self-employment, without the need for employer sponsorship.
6. How do I apply for the Graduate Visa?
To apply:
- Create an online account on the UKVI website (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration).
- Provide your biometric information.
- Pay the visa application fee (£715) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£624 per year).
- Submit supporting documents such as your passport and graduation confirmation.
7. Is there any financial requirement for the Graduate Visa?
No, you do not need to show proof of funds for the Graduate Visa application.
8. Can I extend the Graduate Visa?
No, the Graduate Visa cannot be extended. However, you can switch to another visa category, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, if you meet the requirements.
9. What happens if my Graduate Visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you can appeal the decision or reapply with updated information.
10. What are the restrictions of the Graduate Visa?
- You cannot extend the Graduate Visa beyond the initial two or three years.
- The Graduate Visa does not directly lead to settlement in the UK.
Conclusion
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for a UK Graduate Visa include applying before university confirmation, providing incomplete documents, and missing deadlines. By meeting eligibility criteria and submitting a strong application, international graduates can maximize their post-study work experience in the UK.
Leave a Reply