The UK government is implementing significant reforms to its immigration system to prioritize economic contributions and high-skilled talent. This affects several areas including:
- International student visas
- Graduate post-study work options
- English language requirements
- Skilled worker routes
- Citizenship pathways
Changes to the Graduate Route (Post-Study Visa)
- The Graduate Route, introduced in July 2021, allowed international students to stay in the UK for:
- 2 years (for most graduates)
- 3 years (for PhD graduates)
- Now under review, the UK government plans to:
- Ensure only graduates who enter graduate-level employment are allowed to remain
- Possibly tighten eligibility or shorten the stay period
- Emphasize economic value and skill-based contributions
- The government stated:
“We appreciate the positive contributions that graduates make to the UK, but it is important that any graduates who stay move into graduate-level employment and make a positive contribution to our economy.”
What This Means for Pakistani and International Students
- Higher scrutiny of post-study job roles — students must secure graduate-level jobs to benefit from extended stays
- Policy still allows students to stay after graduation, but future changes may:
- Introduce employment verification
- Require sponsorship or minimum salary
- Focus on high-demand sectors
If you’re planning to study in the UK or advise someone, now is a critical time to stay updated on changing policies — especially if you aim to stay in the UK after graduation.
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