1. Introduction
As a popular study abroad destination, the United Kingdom attracts millions of international students every year. Studying in the UK not only provides students with a high-quality education but also opens up opportunities for them to pursue long-term residency in the country. In this article, we will explore the question of how long it takes to immigrate to the UK after studying there.
2. Post-Study Work Visa
For a long time, students who completed their studies in the UK had very limited options for staying in the country, but this changed in 2020 with the introduction of the post-study work visa. Under this new policy, international students who graduate from UK universities from summer 2021 onwards will be able to remain in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies. During this time, they will be able to work in any job or at any skill level to gain valuable work experience.
3. Tier 2 Work Visa
After the two-year post-study work visa has expired, international students can apply for a Tier 2 work visa if they have secured a job offer in the UK from an employer who has a Tier 2 sponsor license. To be eligible for this visa, the job offer must be at a skill level of RQF level 6 or above (equivalent to a bachelor's degree or higher) and have a minimum salary of ￡25,600 per year. The Tier 2 visa is valid for up to five years.
4. Indefinite Leave to Remain
After living and working in the UK for five years on a Tier 2 visa, international students may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). ILR is a form of permanent residency that allows individuals to stay in the UK without any restrictions on their work or study. To be eligible for ILR, immigrants must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during their time on the Tier 2 visa.
In conclusion, while there is no straightforward answer to how long it takes to immigrate to the UK after studying there, it is clear that the UK government has created pathways for international students to stay and work in the country. From the post-study work visa to the Tier 2 work visa and eventually ILR, students have a range of options to choose from depending on their circumstances and career goals.
