Understanding UK Post-Study Work Visa
The Post-Study Work (PSW) visa provides an excellent opportunity for international students to stay and work in the UK once they complete their course at the bachelor’s level or higher. With the introduction of the points-based immigration system, the students can apply for a Tier-2 work visa as well, once the PSW period ends. This move comes as the UK wants to attract more international talent to the UK student community.
An emphasis is required on the point that the UK wants science scholars to stay in the country and pursue research or contribute to the economy as well as gaining a lucrative job. Along this line, the country allows PhD graduates to stay and work in the country for three years after the degree. The UK is aggressively promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses and the nation wants to dominate the science and technology domain. Statistical data also proves that international students generally prefer STEM courses over other sectors.
The Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a course at a UK university and then become eligible for a post-study work visa in the UK, the following basic requirements must be met:
1. You must possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognised educational institution if you are applying for masters or the 10+2 qualification for undergraduate courses.
2. You must provide the necessary financial statements to prove that you will be able to pay for the course and meet your living expenses.
3. You might need to prove your English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Specific requirements vary based on the university.
4. To apply for PSW, you must complete the course in the UK at bachelor’s level or higher.
5. Any other requirements as specified by UKVI or the UK Government.
What are the Updates?
Previously, international students were allowed to stay in the country for only 4 months after the course, which has now been extended to 24 months (2 years). This amendment came into effect in September 2020. Essentially, the UK government aims to pump up its manpower, especially in STEM, to become a global force in the sector. However, it must be clarified that you are allowed to work at any skill level during PSW, so you don’t have to choose a job that is directly related to your field of study if you don’t want to.
When it comes to the points-based migration system (which you can make use of after your PSW ends), a score of 70 will make you eligible to apply for a Tier-2 work visa. The system essentially states that European Union nationals will essentially be treated the same as the rest of the world. This formed one of the main parts of Brexit negotiations.
To qualify for a Tier-2 work visa, the applicant needs to satisfy the score criteria of 70. First and foremost, you need to have a job offer from an approved employer at the proper skill level, which will get you 40 points. English proficiency at the appropriate level gives you another 10 points. The remaining 20 points can be earned if the job that you have been offered comes with a salary of at least £25,600 per year. PhD in a relevant subject gives you additional 10 points (20 if it is in STEM) and 20 points for a job specified in the UK shortage occupation list. It must also be noted that some jobs in specific sectors like healthcare or education may merit 20 points even if the annual salary is below £25,600.
