Working after studies

There are different types of work visas for the UK. Each visa route has different requirements to meet. Certain work visa routes are may be sponsored, and some may lead to settlement in the UK. Certain work visa routes may allow you to switch from inside the UK (after studies).

If you have successfully completed your programme and wish to live and work in the UK for a while, a Graduate visa might be an option for you. This visa type is available for two years after the award of a degree or for three years after a PhD or other doctorate qualification.

You can apply for the Global Talent visa to work in the UK if you're a leader or potential leader in academic or research, arts and culture, or digital technology.

The Innovator Founder Visa is for entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in the UK. Applicants do not need to have any specific level of funds to invest in their proposed business, but must have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea, supported by a business plan, which has been approved by an endorsing body.

The Skilled Worker visa is the main immigration route for migrants who wish to work in the UK.

The Temporary Worker visa route allows individuals to come to the UK to undertake specific types of work for a period of one or two years. There are different categories.

The Scale-up visa is a work visa for individuals who have an employment offer at degree-level of above from a Scale-up sponsor.

The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa allows individuals who have been awarded a qualification from an eligible overseas (non-UK) institution in the 5 years prior to application to come to/remain in the UK. The HPI visa would be for work purposes and it has specific study visa conditions.