Can International Students Apply for Permanent Residency in the UK After Graduation?
Discover how international students can secure permanent residency in the UK post-graduation with the Graduate Route visa.
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Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in the UK after graduation. International students can apply for a Graduate Route visa, allowing them to stay for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) to work or look for work. After that, switch to a work visa, and meet other criteria, such as continuous residence and a qualifying income, to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent residency.
FAQs & Answers
- What is the Graduate Route visa? The Graduate Route visa allows international students to stay in the UK for 2 years after graduation to work or seek employment.
- How long do I need to live in the UK to apply for permanent residency? You generally need to meet continuous residence requirements for 5 years, depending on the visa type before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
- Can I switch visas while in the UK? Yes, you can switch from a Graduate Route visa to a work visa if you meet the necessary criteria for each visa.
- What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)? Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a form of permanent residency in the UK, allowing you to live and work without immigration restrictions.