Anchor Your Dreams: Stay Rooted in the UK after Graduation
Numerous options await international graduates seeking to remain in the UK after completing their studies. The following sections detail the UK government's Graduate Route visa and the Skilled Worker route.
However, individuals should conduct thorough research on the GOV.UK website to determine which visa aligns best with their current circumstances. A plethora of alternative options exist, encompassing both short-term and long-term visas and visas tailored to particular professions, such as those in the healthcare sector.
What does the Graduate Route mean?
The Graduate Route in the UK allows international students to remain in the country after completing their studies, enabling them to work or seek employment opportunities. Those who have accomplished an undergraduate or master's degree can seek permission to stay in the UK for a maximum of two years post-graduation, while PhD graduates can extend their stay for up to three years.
This presents an excellent opportunity for international students aiming to transition into the UK job market.
What advantages does the Graduate Route offer?
The Graduate Route operates without sponsorship, allowing individuals to work or seek employment opportunities at any skill level after graduation. This flexibility allows for accumulating work experience, participation in internships, or engagement in freelance work within the UK.
With the Graduate Route, there's no minimum salary requirement or limit on the number of international students who can stay in the UK. You're also not tied to a specific job or employer; you can have multiple positions at different skill levels and change jobs during your visa period.
Upon securing suitable employment in the UK, individuals can transition to the skilled work route, thus extending their stay in the country beyond the initial two or three years provided by the Graduate Route.
What are the expenses associated with the Graduate Route?
It's crucial to understand the associated costs before initiating the application process for the Graduate Route visa. There is a single application fee of £822 and the mandatory payment of the full Immigration Health Surcharge. As of February 6, 2024, this charge totals £1035 annually.
Explore further details about the Graduate Route
Delve into comprehensive information about the Graduate Route on GOV.UK, and consult the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website for additional guidance regarding application procedures, prerequisites, FAQs, and more. Additionally, access the UK government's Graduate Route guide for extensive insights.
It's essential to note that if you make a positive impression on your employer while working under the Graduate Route visa, your employer may transition you to the Skilled Worker route, provided all requirements are satisfied. However, it's important to remember that you cannot switch from a Skilled Worker visa to a Graduate Route visa.
What does the Skilled Worker route entail?
The Skilled Worker visa permits individuals to reside in the UK under the sponsorship of an approved employer for an eligible job role. Any eligible job that you are hoping to be sponsored for must meet a minimum salary requirement. A salary must meet or exceed the following requirements:
A. The minimum salary threshold
B. The "going rate" for the specific occupation
the minimum salary varies depending on how you are obtaining your tradable points. As an example, the most common option for obtaining the tradable points is through Option A.
The minimum salary for Option A is as follows:
- Yearly salary of £38,700,
- the going rate for the SOC 2020 occupation code
Additionally, the job must meet predetermined skill level requirements outlined by the UK government. A comprehensive list of eligible occupations is available on the government's website under the Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations. Notably, the UKCISA website offers supplementary guidance on the Skilled Worker route, covering application procedures, prerequisites, FAQs, and more.
What are the expenses associated with the Skilled Worker route?
The costs vary, but employers will consistently bear expenses when employing a graduate under the Skilled Worker route. The standard fee fluctuates between £719 and £1,500, contingent upon various factors such as the applicant's location, the type of visa being switched from, the employer's size, and whether the employer possesses an existing sponsor license.
It is customary, particularly for larger organizations, to cover the fee. However, it's not guaranteed, so if you receive a job offer and intend to pursue this route, address this matter upfront with your prospective employer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UK offers international graduates multiple pathways to establish themselves post-graduation. The Graduate Route provides autonomy and flexibility, while the Skilled Worker route offers extended opportunities with employer sponsorship. Thorough research and consultation are essential for navigating visa options and requirements. By leveraging available resources and staying informed, graduates can anchor their dreams and build successful careers in the UK.
