The plans for a sweeping crackdown on graduate visas, which allow international students to work in the UK for up to two years post-graduation, are likely to be abandoned by the Prime Minister due to strong opposition from cabinet colleagues.
Initially, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was contemplating severe restrictions or even the complete elimination of the graduate visa route as part of efforts to lower migration numbers.
However, facing significant resistance, he is now anticipated to pursue more moderate reforms aimed at closing existing loopholes and curbing potential abuses within the immigration system.
One of the proposed measures includes a stringent crackdown on recruitment agents who market British degree programs to prospective international students.
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These potential reforms reflect a balanced approach, seeking to address concerns about immigration control while preserving the UK’s attractiveness as a destination for international students.
The government’s decision to focus on targeted measures rather than an outright abolition of the graduate visa program suggests an effort to sustain the positive contributions of international graduates to the UK economy and society, while tightening oversight to prevent misuse.
According to the UK Government’s official site, the Graduate visa allows individuals to remain in the UK for at least two years after completing an eligible course of study.
This visa has become a significant pathway for international students, particularly from India, to gain valuable post-study work experience in the UK. In 2023, over 50,000 Indian students benefited from the Graduate visa, representing 44% of all student visa extensions and marking the highest number among any nationality.
To be eligible for the Graduate visa, applicants must be physically present in the UK and have completed a qualifying course, which includes UK bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate degrees, or other eligible courses of study for a specified minimum duration. Importantly, this course must have been completed while holding a Student visa or a Tier 4 (General) student visa.
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The Graduate visa is valid for two years, providing ample time for graduates to seek employment and gain practical experience in their fields of study.
For those who have earned a PhD or another doctoral qualification, the visa extends to three years. However, it is crucial to note that the Graduate visa is not extendable.
The duration of the visa begins on the day the application is approved, giving graduates a clear timeframe within which they can capitalize on their post-study work opportunities.
Overall, the Graduate visa serves as a critical bridge for international students transitioning from academic life to professional careers in the UK, fostering both personal and professional growth. It also underscores the UK’s commitment to attracting and retaining global talent, enhancing its educational institutions’ appeal to prospective students worldwide.