If you are an international student studying in the UK, you might be wondering what your options are after you graduate. Luckily, there are several ways you can stay in the UK after your studies. In this article, we will discuss the various options available to you and the requirements for each one.
1. Tier 2 (General) Visa
If you have a job offer from a UK employer, you may be eligible for a Tier 2 (General) visa. This visa allows you to work in the UK and stay for up to five years. To be eligible, you must have a job offer from a UK employer who has a sponsor licence. You also need to meet the minimum salary requirement and have a certain level of English proficiency.
2. Tier 4 (General) Student Visa Extension
If you are currently studying in the UK on a Tier 4 (General) student visa, you may be able to extend your visa to continue your studies or switch to a Tier 2 (General) visa. To be eligible for a visa extension, you need to have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your new institution. You also need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
3. Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa
If you have a business idea and want to start your own business in the UK, you may be eligible for a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years to develop your business idea. To be eligible, you need to have a business idea that has been endorsed by an authorised UK higher education institution or the UK government.
4. Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa
If you are a talented individual in the fields of science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, or the arts, you may be eligible for a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to five years to work in your field of expertise. To be eligible, you need to be endorsed by a designated competent body in your field of expertise.
5. Ancestry Visa
If you have a grandparent who was born in the UK, you may be eligible for an ancestry visa. This visa allows you to work and stay in the UK for up to five years. To be eligible, you need to prove that you have a grandparent who was born in the UK, that you are a Commonwealth citizen, and that you are 17 years or older.
6. Marriage or Civil Partnership
If you are in a relationship with a British citizen or someone who has settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to stay in the UK through marriage or civil partnership. To be eligible, you must prove that you are in a genuine relationship and that you intend to live together in the UK.
7. Indefinite Leave to Remain
If you have lived in the UK for a certain period of time, you may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). ILR allows you to stay in the UK without any time restrictions. To be eligible, you need to have lived in the UK for a certain period of time and meet the other eligibility requirements.
8. British Citizenship
If you have lived in the UK for a certain period of time and meet the other eligibility requirements, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship. British citizenship allows you to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions and gives you the right to vote and access public services.
Conclusion
There are several options available to international students who want to stay in the UK after their studies. The best option for you will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. It is important to do your research and seek professional advice to make an informed decision.