The UK Graduate Route Visa is an exciting opportunity for Indian students to stay in the UK and work after completing their studies. This popular visa allows individuals who recently graduated from a UK University to stay, work, or look for work in the UK for up to two years.
By attaining this visa, individuals can gain invaluable experience that will open many doors to future opportunities and careers. Whether one wishes to start their own business, continue their studies or travel around Europe during their stay, the UK graduate visa sets a strong foundation for Indian students’ success after university.
Why Indian Students Should Apply
The UK Graduate Route Visa, also known as the “Student Route,” is a visa option available to international students who have recently graduated from a UK university. Unlike some other visa categories, the Graduate Route does not require sponsorship from an employer or educational institution. Instead, individuals who qualify for this route can apply for a visa on their own and are not tied to a specific job or employer.
This gives graduates the freedom to explore different career options and switch jobs as needed without worrying about their visa status. There are no restrictions on the type of work that can be pursued while on this visa, so graduates are able to pursue a wide range of employment opportunities.
Duration Period of Graduate Route Visa
Indian students who have completed a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in the UK will be able to stay in the country for up to two years with a Graduate Route visa. PhD graduates will be able to stay for up to three years with this type of visa.
It’s important to note that the duration of the UK graduate visa may change depending on updates to UK immigration policies. It’s always a good idea to check the latest information and requirements before applying for it.
Eligibility for Applying for a UK Graduate Route Visa
To be eligible for the Graduate Route, Indian students must have completed an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate course in the UK, such as:
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD or Doctorate
- Law Conversion Course
- The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)
A full list of approved courses can be found on the UK government website. There are no specific language requirements for this visa, as proficiency in English is demonstrated by completing a qualification in the UK. In addition, applicants must have lived in the UK for at least 12 months during their course (or for the entire duration of a shorter program). However, this requirement may be waived for those who were unable to remain in the UK due to the coronavirus pandemic.
To apply for the UK Graduate Route Visa, you must be in the UK and hold a valid Tier 4 or Student Visa. It’s important to note that the application fee is non-refundable if your application is denied, so be sure to meet all requirements before submitting your application.
Application Cost of a UK Graduate Route Visa
The cost of the Graduate Route visa, also known as the “Student Route,” includes the following fees in Indian rupees:
- The visa application fee: £715 (INR 70,475)
- The healthcare surcharge: An upfront payment equivalent to £624 per year that you will be in the UK, which allows you to access the National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as permanent UK residents. The healthcare surcharge is currently:
- £1,248 (INR 123,000) if you will be in the UK for two years
- £1,872 (INR 187,300) if you will be in the UK for three years
How to Apply for Graduate Visa
Indian students who wish to apply for the UK Graduate Route Visa must follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to the UK government website and start a new application.
Step 2: Create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account or sign in to an existing one when prompted.
Step 3: Use the “UK Immigration ID Check” app, which you can download once you have signed into your UKVI account, to verify your identity. You will need your Biometric Residence Card (BRP) for this step.
Step 4: Once your identity has been confirmed, you can move on to the main part of the application, which will involve providing personal details and answering questions about your employment and immigration history. You will also need to provide your passport or other travel document and your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number.
Step 5: Pay the application fee and the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge.
Step 6: Wait for your application to be processed. Most applications are approved within eight weeks, and successful applicants will receive a digital eVisa, which can be viewed online through the government’s “View and Prove” service.
Next Step for Your Career: Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to work in the UK in a skilled occupation. If you have completed a course of study in the UK and have obtained a UK Graduate Route visa, also known as the “Student Route,” you may be interested in applying for a Skilled Worker Visa as the next step in your career.
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa, you will need to have a job offer from an employer in the UK in an eligible occupation. Eligible occupations are listed in the Skilled Occupation List, which is a list of occupations that are in high demand in the UK labor market. You will also need to meet the required level of English language proficiency and savings to show that you can support yourself financially during your stay in the UK.
The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to work in the UK for up to five years, after which you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (permanent residence).
Key Takeaways
The UK graduate visa is an excellent opportunity for Indian postgraduate students to stay and work in the UK after completing their studies. The streamlined application process, clear eligibility criteria, and generous benefits make the application demanding.
The UK Graduate Route Visa is one of the best routes for international students seeking employment opportunities in the UK following their studies. With its dedicated support system, a wide range of opportunities, and clarified requirements, it is an invaluable asset that every postgraduate student should look into.
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