As an International student, can I work in the UK after my Masters degree?

If you are reading this post, then it is very likely that you are an international student in the UK or considering being one soon. Right to work for a non-UK student is a very frequently asked question due to the constantly changing UK Home office rules and well done if you are already looking ahead at your options once you graduate.

The UK attracts a large proportion of all international students. Did you know that UK is the second-most popular destination for international students after the USA and that there is about half a million international students currently in UK in 2020. This is more than a 5% increase over the last 5 years period. 

Some of the things that draw students into UK is the high quality of life and good employment prospects after graduation. Citizens of a country in the European Union or the European Economic Area (EEA) have been able to live in the UK with fewer restrictions so far. However, Brexit this year is expected to bring a few impediments for foreign students wanting to remain in the UK after their studies. Whether you are a EU citizen or a non-EU citizen, it is important to understand the current rights you have - so keep reading.

International students in the UK from EU region

If you are a citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you currently have a right to work in the UK. Working rights for EU citizens in the UK will be affected by the outcome of Brexit. If you are already living in or will be moving to live in the UK before 31 December 2020, you may be eligible to apply for the EU settlement scheme.

International students in the UK from non-EU regions

Non EU Students have the option to extend their stay for up to 2 years using the Post Study Work (PSW) visa. The reinstated ‘Graduate’ route will be open to all international students who have successfully completed a course of study in any subject at undergraduate level or above at an approved UK Higher Education Provider. The visa will allow eligible students to work, or look for work, in any career or position of their choice after completing their studies.

If you have a suitable job offer, you can alternatively apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa that is sponsored by your employer. This visa entitles you to live and work in the UK for up to five years. To be able to apply for a Tier 2 visa, your job will usually need to be graduate-level position and provide an annual salary of at least £20,800 (or the industry equivalent).

For more help and assistance on this matter, our expert team of advisors can be reached by phone on (0)7438432741 or by email at help@jobadvisors.co.uk.