The Tier 1 Post Study Work Visa is a sub-category of the Tier 1 Highly Skilled Visa, and replaced the International Graduates Scheme (IGS) on 30 June 2008.
The Post-Study Work category of Tier 1 visas is designed as a transitional route to allow the most talented non-EEA nationals graduating from UK universities to transfer into a work or business visa.
The Post-Study Work visa replaces both the previous International Graduates Scheme (IGS) and the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme, allowing successful applicants to transfer into any other Tier 1 visa category under the Points Based System, if they can meet the specific requirements of that category. Post-Study Work visa holders will also be able to transfer into tier 2, which replaces the previous system of UK work permits.
- The post-study worker category is designed for international graduates who have studied in the United Kingdom. It also enhances the United Kingdom's overall offer to international students. Post-study workers are free to look for work without having a sponsor for the length of their leave. The category provides a bridge to highly skilled or skilled work. You can apply under the post-study worker category now if you are
- in the United Kingdom as a student, which includes students, student nurses, students resitting examinations, and students writing up a thesis, and want to switch into the post-study worker category.
The Tier 1 Post Study Visa allows those who have graduated from a UK educational institution with at least a Bachelor degree level qualification (or an HND if from a Scottish educational institution) to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
Post Work Study Visas are issued as a means to allow talented graduates to progress to either another category of tier 1, or to tier 2 by securing a sponsor.
While this Tier 1 sub-category will not qualify towards permanent residence, it would be expected that you would be able to qualify for the Tier 1 HSMP Visa or obtain a job offer and qualify for Tier 2 by the time your Tier 1 Post Study Visa is due to expire.
As a specialist UK immigration consultancy, SmartMove2UK can offer a full UK visa service to cater for all tiers of the new system. Our immigration consultants can help you to determine which of the new UK visas is most appropriate for your relocation to the UK.
Call or email info@smartmove2uk.com to contact a SmartMove2UK consultant to check if you qualify for a Tier 1 visa. |
