- Minimum salary likely for ILR applicants post 2016
- A2 worker rules likely to remain in force until 2014
- Revised shortage occupation list proposed by the MAC
- Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) category starts 9th August 2011
- Government signals end of ILR for migrant workers
When should I apply for a post study work visa extension?
If you one of the thousands of international students studying in the UK, you may be hoping to apply for a post study work visa to stay on after you graduate. Perhaps you have made great friends and enjoy your life here in the UK and want to contribute to the economy by finding a job. So according to the UK Government policy on immigration, when should you submit your application for a student visa extension?
The truth is you actually need to apply for a separate visa called a Tier 1 post study work visa in order to stay in the UK after your education has finished. If your application is successful you will be able to stay in the country for up to two years and there are no restrictions on the type of work you can do, however just like in any other country, some job sectors may be easier to get into than other more competitive fields.
If you are still studying for a degree or postgraduate qualification you will have to wait until you actually finish until you can submit your application. Likewise, if you have already finished and obtained your degree, you need to submit your forms to the UK work permit consultants within a year of finishing your course. Failing to comply with these rules could see your application being rejected and you losing the right to remain in the country.
Of course, thinking about what you want to do with your degree or other qualification after you finish is very important. This will help shape the rest of your life and professional career so you should really think about what you want to do. By applying to work as an intern for a year you may actually be able to work under sponsorship with a UK based company. Likewise, you could secure one of the much sought after graduate development positions with a leading retailer for example. There is no end to the possibilities of jobs you could apply for and an important matter for consideration is that you do not have to have an employment offer lined up for when you obtain your qualification. If you can show that you have money available to support yourself while looking for work this will certainly work in your favour.
Perhaps you are unsure about whether you want to stay in the UK or not? Maybe you cannot decide on what career path to take? If this sounds like your situation, try putting in a bit of research and talking to a career advisor at your university or college as it may be of great benefit to you and your application.
