The Government has announced that a new Graduate route visa will open for applications in July which will allow many of the brightest and the best international students to continue to contribute to UK society and the economy post-study.
The launch of the Graduate route visa is part of the Government’s promise to implement a points-based immigration system, which will attract talent and ensure that businesses can recruit the most highly qualified from across the globe.
It will launch for applications on 1 July 2021, for international students who have completed a degree at undergraduate level or above in the UK.
To be eligible, international students must have completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider, with a track record of compliance with the government’s immigration requirements.
Applicants who began their studies in Autumn 2020 will now have until 21 June 2021 to enter the UK to be eligible for the Graduate route visa. Whilst students who began their studies in January or February 2021 will need to be in the UK by 27 September 2021.
Students on the Graduate route will be able to work or look for work after their studies for a maximum period of 2 years, or 3 years for Doctoral students.
The Graduate route visa will cover the whole of the UK, ensuring that communities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can benefit from talented individuals who want to stay after their studies.
Minister for Future Borders and Immigration Kevin Foster said: “As we rebuild from the global pandemic, we want the world’s brightest talent, who aspire to a career at the highest levels of business, science, the arts and technology to see our United Kingdom as the natural place to fulfil their aspirations.
“The changes will ensure once they have received a gold standard qualification from one of our world-leading education institutions, they can easily secure the status they need to continue living, working and fulfilling their dreams in the UK.”
Here at Knightsbridge Solicitors, we are passionate about giving you and your family the best possible opportunities in the UK.
Contact our experienced immigration team today for tailored advice and support, on 0115 824 1700.