Debunking Common Myths about Post-Study Work Visas in the UK

Are you an international student who wants to stay and work in the United Kingdom after finishing your studies?

If this is the case, you may have heard several myths and misconceptions regarding the post-study work visa, commonly known as the Graduate Route, which could be leading you to be confused about your eligibility and prospects of success.

Today, we will be debunking common myths about post-study work visas in the UK.

Myth: Post-Study Work Visas Are Only for Stem Graduates

One of the most common myths regarding post-study work visas in the United Kingdom is that they are exclusively offered to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) graduates. While some of the most in-demand sectors for post-study work visas, such as software engineering or data analysis, come under STEM, there are numerous other industries that can provide post-study work visa opportunities.

Healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and dentists, are in great demand in the UK. Many international students in these professions can apply for post-study work visas following graduation. Another example is the creative industry, which covers disciplines such as graphic design, media, and marketing also provides opportunities for a post-study visa.

Similarly, the UK government's official guidelines on post-study work visas underline that graduates from any subject are eligible to apply for the visa as long as they fulfil the eligibility requirements. So, if you're an international student studying in the UK, it's worth looking into post-study work visa opportunities in your field, whether or not it comes within STEM.

Myth: Post-Study Work Visas Lead to Permanent Residency in the UK

Many believe that post-study work visas in the UK automatically lead to permanent residency. Nevertheless, this is not always the case. While some visa categories, such as the Tier 2 General Work Visa, may lead to permanent residency after a specific time, post-study work visas usually do not.

For instance, the new Graduate Route Visa permits international students to stay and work in the UK for two years following graduation. While this visa does not provide permanent residency, it can be a valuable stepping stone towards future residency.

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Myth: Only Full-Time Students Are Eligible for Post-Study Work Visas

Another common myth regarding post-study work visas in the UK is that they are exclusively available to full-time students. This is not completely accurate. While full-time students are eligible for post-study work visas, part-time students may also be eligible if certain requirements are met.

For example, part-time students may be eligible for post-study work visas if they studied a recognised qualification at a UK university or college and sustained a particular degree of academic progress throughout their studies.

This is an excellent chance for students who work part-time from their student accommodation while studying to gain valuable job experience in the UK.

Myth: You Can't Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa After Leaving the UK

This is simply not true; you can apply for a post-study work visa from your native country or any other nation where you now reside. The primary requirement is that you apply for the visa within two years of finishing your degree programme in the UK.

Assume you have obtained a Master's degree in the United Kingdom and have returned to your native country after leaving your amber student accommodation.

For a few years, you decide to work in the UK to get experience in your line of work, but you worry that since you've left the country, you won't be capable for applying a post-study work visa. This is not the case; you can still apply for a visa from your native country if you do so within two years after finishing your degree programme.

It's crucial to know that the application process for a post-study work visa is the same whether you're in the UK or not. You can take advantage of this excellent opportunity to advance your career in the UK by understanding the requirements and application process for a post-study work visa.

Conclusion

We hope this article helps you to debunk common myths about post-study work visas in the UK. Don't allow myths and misinformation to stop you from accomplishing your goals; with the relevant information and continuous effort, you can thrive in the UK job market and establish a remarkable career.

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Author's Bio

Archit, an avid writer, is eager to earn his doctorate. While not writing, he enjoys reading, occasionally riding the metro, and exploring the area's book stores.