Post-Study Work Visa in the UK

Table of contents:

1. Eligibility for Post-Study Work Visa in the UK
2. When Should You Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK?
3. Do’s and Don’ts of a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK
4. Cost of Applying for a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK
5. How to get a Job in the UK with a Post-Study Work Visa?
6. Frequently Asked Questions

The UK is a popular destination for international students with over half a million international students. The UK offers top-quality education with a range of courses and top universities. The UK is ranked 13th in quality of life and 9th in best countries overall. Many international students utilize the graduate route visa (post-study) to work after they have completed their studies. Post-study work visas in the UK allow students to stay back for 2 years (graduate students) and 3 years (PhD or other doctoral students).

Eligibility for Post-Study Work Visa in the UK

Candidates can apply for a post-study work visa in the UK if they are:

• Staying in the UK
• The current visa is a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• Studies a UK bachelor’s or master’s degree or other eligible course for a minimum period with a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• Your university or college has informed the Home Office that you’ve completed your course

When Should You Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK?

Candidates should apply for a post-study work visa in the UK before their Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa expires. Other requirements are as follows:

• Apply after your university or college has informed the Home Office that you’ve completed the program of study you took with a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa.
• You do not have to wait until the end of your graduation or your certificate.
• Apply online when you are ready with your necessary documents.

Documents Required for a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK

To apply for a post-study work visa in the UK, you must have the following documents:

• Valid Passport proving your identity and nationality
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) – if given when you applied for a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number, provided by your university or college when you completed your course on Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa

Do’s and Don’ts of a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK

What you can do with your post-study work visa:

• Work in most jobs
• Look for work
• Be self-employed
• Continue living in the UK with your partner and children (if they’re eligible)
• Do voluntary work travel abroad and return to the UK

What you cannot do with your post-study work visa:

• Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the state pension
• Work as a professional sportsperson

Cost of Applying for a Post-Study Work Visa in the UK

The costs of applying for a post-study work visa are divided into two elements, they are:

• Graduate route visa application fee: £822
• Healthcare Surcharge: £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK. You’ll also have to pay for a healthcare surcharge which is £2,070 for 2 years and £3,105 for 3 years.

How to get a Job in the UK with a Post-Study Work Visa?

There are various ways to get a job in the UK with a Post-Study Work Visa, they are:

Skilled Worker Visa:

The details for the skilled worker visa are as follows:

Particular	Details
About	Allows you to come or stay in the UK for a job with an approved employer
Replaced	The skilled worker visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa
Eligibility	Work for a UK employer approved by the Home Office Have a ‘Certificate of Sponsorship’ (CoS) from your employer with information about your job role Do a job that is on the list of eligible occupations Be paid a minimum salary
Duration of Stay	5 Years (post 5 years you need to extend the visa)
Application Process	Apply for a visa 3 months before your joining date You’ll get a decision within 3 weeks (if outside the UK) or 8 weeks (if inside the UK)
Application Fee	£719 – £1,639
Proof of Funds	You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself

Health-Care Worker Visa

The details for the health-care worker visa are as follows:

Particular	Details
About	Allows medical professionals to come or stay in the UK for eligible jobs with NHS, NHS supplier or adult social care
Eligibility	Qualified doctor, nurse, health professional or adult social care professional Work in an eligible health or social care job Work for a UK employer approved by the Home Office Have a ‘Certificate of Sponsorship’ from your employer with information about your job role Be paid a minimum salary
Duration of Stay	5 Years (post 5 years you need to extend the visa)
Application Process	Apply for a visa 3 months before your joining date and you’ll get a decision within 3 weeks
Application Fee	Up to 3 years – £284 More than 3 years – £551
Proof of Funds	Must have at least £1,270 in your bank account as proof of funds

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend my post-study work visa to the UK?

No, you cannot extend your post-study work visa. Post expiration, you can apply for a skilled worker visa or any other relevant work visa.

When should I apply for the Skilled Worker visa in the UK?

You must apply for the Skilled Worker visa 3 months before your joining date.

Is a job offer required to apply for a post-study work visa in the UK?

No, with a post-study work visa in the UK, you can look for jobs or start your own business.

Can I travel to my home country while on a post-study work visa in the UK?

Yes, you are allowed to work anywhere in the world while on a post-study work visa in the UK.

Can my spouse join me on a skilled worker visa in the UK?

Yes, your spouse/children/family members can also apply to join. However, they are required to complete separate applications.

What does UKVI – UK Visas and Immigration do?

UKVI handles all the visa responsibilities and decides who gets the right to visit or stay in the country.