12 May What options do you have if you are a Tier 4 graduate?
Many Tier 4 migrants are concerned that the COVID-19 pandemic will affect graduate recruitment. This article explores the different options available for Tier 4 General students who wish to stay in the UK, after completing their studies.
Start-up visa
The Start-up visa scheme is for individuals who wish to set up a business in the UK.
In order to qualify, applicants must not have previously had a business in the UK.
In addition, migrants will need to obtain an endorsement letter from one of the approved endorsing bodies. This can either be a UK higher education institution or a business organisation, with a history of supporting UK entrepreneurs.
Applicants will need to demonstrate that their business idea is innovative, viable and scalable.
There is no threshold in regards to the amount of funds to be invested. However, a Start-up visa does not lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). It can be granted for up to 2 years, and cannot be extended. However, applicants can switch into the Innovator visa category.
Innovator visa
As with the Start-up visa, applicants will also need to show that their business idea is innovative, viable and scalable.
Applicants will need to have at least £50,000 in investment funds, and obtain an endorsement letter from one of the listed endorsing bodies prior to submission.
Global Talent visa
The Global Talent visa scheme is for individuals who are already recognised as leaders or as emerging leaders within the field of their work.
If a Tier 4 migrant is considered to be an emerging leader and has valuable experience, in the digital sector, the arts, fashion, engineering, science, medicine or architecture etc, they can apply for endorsement from one of the approved endorsing bodies.
Tier 2 General visa
Tier 4 General students can switch in the UK to a Tier 2 General visa, if they have a job offer in the UK. However, the prospective employer will need to have a valid sponsorship licence in order to sponsor them.
In addition, applicants will also need to show that they have the required skills to perform the prospective job and must also be paid the appropriate salary.
Tier 1 (Investor) visa
Tier 4 General migrants can also switch in-country to a Tier 1 Investor visa. This visa category requires applicants to hold at least £2 million in cash funds. Applicants must also confirm the source of the funds, if the funds have not been held in their name for a period of two years, prior to the date of submission.
Further study
Depending on the completed level of study, and the amount of time spent in the UK as a Tier 4 migrant, an individual might be able to continue their education in the UK, by completing a Master’s or PhD.
In order to apply for a Tier 4 General visa extension, applicants will need to receive an offer from an educational institution in the UK, pay their tuition fees and show that they have sufficient funds to cover their maintenance costs etc.
Spouse visa
Applicants can switch from the Tier 4 category into the spouse visa category. Applicants will need to show that they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, meet the financial requirements and English language requirements (if applicable).
Post-Study Work (PSW) visa
On 11 September 2019, the Home Office announced that international students who have successfully completed a degree in any subject, including Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) from a trusted UK university or higher education provider will be able to stay in the UK for a further 2 years to gain work experience, under the Post-Study Work visa category.
Please note that this scheme will only be available for Tier 4 General students who will graduate on or after 2021.
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For expert advice, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075.
