Updates on the Graduate Route to work in the UK
Immigration News
July 21, 2020
The Home Office has unveiled additional updates following the announcement of the post-study graduate route for International students in the UK.
In a recent statement issued, more clarity has been created around the specific details of the graduate route due to launch next year (summer 2021) and on the points-based immigration system
The statement mentions:
The Graduate route will be launched in summer 2021 to provide international students the opportunity to stay in the UK to work or look for work after they graduate. Undergraduate and master's degree students will be able to stay for two years under the route, whilst PhD students will be able to stay for three years.
Graduates will be able to switch into other routes in line with the wider approach to switching when applying for leave inside the UK. This will include the ability to switch into work routes if they are able to meet the requirements.
This means that the Graduate Route will be open to international students with
a valid Tier 4 visa at the time of application and
Who have completed their degree – undergraduate or above – at a UK Higher Education Provider.
It will not be necessary to have sponsorship by an employer under this route.
All successful applicants will be granted a one-time non-extendable leave period of two years if graduating at undergraduate or masters level, or three years if graduating with a PhD, on this route and will be able to work, or look for work, at any skill level during this period.
The route will also be Points-Based, with the full number of points being awarded for the successful completion of a degree from a UK Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance
The Graduate route is expected to increase the attractiveness of the UK as a destination for international students.
Important things to note: