Hello there, so you must be an international student who is dreaming of turning your UK academic experience into a professional career.
Or someone who is interested to know the process of it.
Either way, you’re in the right place.
Going through visa transitions can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.
This guide will walk you through everything that you need to know about moving from a student visa to a work visa in the United Kingdom.
The good news is that the UK has some incredible opportunities for international graduates when it comes to this.
As in with a job market that is realed to many fields and, there are plenty of pathways to continue your professional growth as well.
Therefore, by understanding the visa transition process, you can open doors to long-term career possibilities and actually build a life in the UK.
So, without anymore explanations, let’s get into details.
Understanding Your Student Visa
Before talking about the transition, let’s know about the concept of the student visa in the UK.
Well, student visas in the UK are there to support your entire academic journey.
There are different types of visas depending on your study level and program duration.
Typically, these visas cover your entire course, with some extra time added to help you to take on post-graduation opportunities.
Moreover, while studying, you’ll have specific work rights as well in this case.
Where most international students can work part-time during the term time and full-time during vacation periods.
Anyway, don’t get confused in here.
Working is only part-time in this case, which is way more different than having the working experience under a working visa.
Eligible Pathways to Work Visa
Graduate Route
The Graduate Route is a turning point for international students.
It allows recent graduates to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after completing their degree (three years for doctoral students).
To qualify, you need to have finished a recognized degree from a UK higher education institution and apply from within the UK.
On the other hand, the application process is pretty simple as well.
Where you’ll need to provide proof of your degree and meet some specific eligibility criterias.
Note: This route gives you a fantastic chance to gain professional experience, go through the job market, and have a transition to a permanent working visa.
Skilled Worker Visa
Have you heard of this visa category before?
Well, if you’re looking for a more structured path to long-term employment, the Skilled Worker visa is your option.
This visa requires sponsorship from a UK employer and is designed for professionals who can fill specific skill gaps.
In addition to that, you’ll need to meet their minimum salary requirements and demonstrate enough amount of skills that are relevant to your field.
Now the eligibility aspects are quite different from the graduate route in this case.
Where employers must have a valid sponsorship license and provide a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Moreover, you’ll need to prove your English language skills and meet financial requirements as well.
Note: Most of the time, this visa lasts up to five years and allows you to go on a clear path to settlement.
Preparing for the Transition
Academic and Professional Preparation
Transitioning from a student visa takes some time and strategic planning.
It’s more than just academic achievements when it comes to this.
Therefore, here is our advice for you:
- Focus on practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, and university projects.
- Stay ahead of the process by keeping up with industry trends and participating in workshops.
- Networking with professionals is something important as well, so get involved with professional associations, and attend industry events to grow your connections.
Job Searching Strategies
Going through the UK job market needs some relevant aspects to the field that you are interested in.
Therefore, you must understand all the local recruitment techniques, and industry expectations to meet your desires.
On the other hand, online platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and industry-specific job boards are your best pick as well.
Moreover, you must need a professional CV to apply for jobs.
In fact, there are lots of online resources that are available to design you a perfect CV, but there are some points you must note.
Your CV must highlight your transferable skills, academic achievements, and any UK work experience.
This is because, your CV is going to be the main pick when an employee goes through your documents.
Tip: Prepare for interviews by understanding behavioral and competency-based questioning techniques.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Graduate Route Application
Applying for the Graduate Route involves an online application with specific documents.
As in, you’ll need your passport, graduation confirmation transcripts, and other basic documents to prove yourself.
Anyway, nothing in these countries will give you anything for free.
So, must not forget to pay the application fee and healthcare surcharge other than the visa fee.
When it comes to the processing times, there is no such period that we can share with you, so it is best if you can plan ahead.
Tip: Watch out for common human errors like missing documents, incomplete applications, or missed deadlines. Attention to detail is always the key to these things.
Skilled Worker Visa Application
As mentioned before, looking for a Skilled Worker visa means that you are finding an employer who is willing to sponsor you.
This requires you to show your value and understanding of the industry’s specific requirements.
In addition to that, you’ll need to prove your English language proficiency as well through tests like IELTS.
This is because, as you may already know, being fluent in English makes its easy for you to work and communicate with others.
Tip: Financial documents such as balance confirmation letters, FD certificates and meeting the minimum salary requirements are something crucial for a successful application.
Changing your visa status, that is specifically from student to work in the UK is a journey that you must go on with some good preparations.
By understanding the requirements and going through the process much more carefully, you can turn your academic experience into a professional career.
We hope that this guide will be more than enough for you to achieve that.
Remember that the UK job market is full of opportunities for talented and motivated candidates.
Therefore, make sure to grab the opportunity when it is possible rather than regretting any decisions that you have made.
Contact TEVS a UK student visa consultants in Sri Lanka for more information.
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