If you are an international student who has just completed your degree or higher education qualification in the UK, you might be interested in the Graduate Visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK and work after finishing your studies.
The Graduate Visa is designed for international students who have completed their studies in the UK. It allows you to work in any job, regardless of the skill level or salary. You can stay and work for up to two years if you completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree. If you completed a PhD or doctorate, you can stay for three years.
To apply for the Graduate Visa, you must have completed a degree or higher qualification at a UK university and previously held a student visa while studying in the UK. You must be in the UK when you apply. If you leave the Common Travel Area while your application is being processed, it will be considered withdrawn. Unlike some other visas, you do not need a job offer or a sponsor to apply for the Graduate Visa.
The application costs £822, and you will also need to pay the immigration health surcharge, which gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay. If you had dependants (like a spouse or children) who joined you on your student visa, they can also apply to stay with you under the Graduate Visa.
It’s important to remember that you cannot extend your Graduate Visa. If you have already held a Graduate Visa or were on the Doctorate Extension Scheme, your application will be rejected. Additionally, the Graduate Visa does not lead to settlement in the UK, meaning that after your visa expires, you will need to apply for a different visa if you wish to stay longer.
The Graduate Visa is a great opportunity for international students to gain work experience in the UK after completing their studies. Make sure to follow the application process carefully and remember the important points mentioned above. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, reaching out to Kash Legal Services for help.