Graduate Visa Review

The Graduate Visa has been a popular route for highly qualified people to remain in the UK after completing a graduate or postgraduate course.

The UK immigration system is undergoing a comprehensive review, with significant changes being made to visa requirements. As part of these measures, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has been asked to review the operation of the Graduate Visa route.

Immigration specialists expect that this could lead to a tightening of the criteria and terms of the visa.

What is the Graduate Visa?

The Graduate Visa is for students in the UK who want to work or look for work, after completing an eligible course of study at graduate or postgraduate level. To be eligible, the course should have been provided by a higher education provider with a track record of compliance.

If a graduate successfully obtains the Graduate Visa they then have permission to stay in the UK for at least 2 years.

The Graduate Visa allows the holder to seek employment in most jobs, start a business, and continue to live in the UK with any eligible dependents. Graduate Visa holders can also do voluntary work, and travel abroad and return to the UK.

The scheme has been valued by employers looking for graduate recruits and universities looking to attract international students.

What are the possible changes to the Graduate Visa?

Any changes to the Graduate Visa recommended by the MAC review are likely to be in line with a general tightening of immigration rules currently being implemented in the UK.

The government has stated that the review of the Graduate route is essential “to ensure it works in the best interests of the UK and to ensure steps are being taken to prevent abuse.”

In practice, this is likely to mean a reduction in the length of the Graduate Visa from two years. The eligibility criteria for the visa may also be changed as a result of the review.

If you are planning on applying for a Graduate Visa after completing your studies in the UK, it’s important to stay informed about any possible changes and what they may mean for your application.

Immigration advice & support from BS Consulting

At BS Consulting, our experienced team of immigration and settlement consultants can help you negotiate the complexities of the UK immigration system.

Contact us today to find out more about our services and how we can help.