The duration of the post-study work visa in the UK has been reduced. Indian and Pakistani graduates: discover how to make the most of your 18-month Graduate Route to secure a sponsored job and remain in the UK!
The recent modifications to the UK Graduate Route visa, which cut its length from two years to 18 months for most undergraduate and master's degree holders (PhD graduates are still granted three years), have understandably sparked concerns among Indian students regarding UK employment and Pakistani graduates in the UK. This shortened duration significantly affects the period available for international graduates to obtain a sponsored Skilled Worker visa, which is the pathway for long-term residency and employment in the UK. Although the Graduate Route provides critical flexibility, allowing graduates to work in any field and at any skill level without a job offer, the reduced timeframe necessitates a more strategic and proactive approach to job hunting.
For Indian students looking for UK jobs and Pakistani graduates in the UK, the 18-month timeframe, while appearing brief, can be adequate if approached with planning and resolve. The essential strategy is to begin early – preferably even before completing your degree. Utilizing university career services right from the start is crucial. These resources offer essential support, including CV workshops, interview coaching, job fairs, and networking events that connect students with potential employers. Many UK firms, particularly in high-demand fields such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance, actively seek international graduates and are frequently licensed sponsors. Concentrating on these sectors and positions where there is a discernible skills gap can significantly boost your likelihood of finding a company willing to sponsor your UK post-study work visa.
To make the most of your UK Graduate Route visa period, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. First, actively pursue internships or part-time employment during your studies. This not only affords valuable UK work experience but also enables you to cultivate a professional network and possibly transition to a full-time position with the same employer. Secondly, consistently enhance your job application abilities – customizing your CV and cover letter for each application and thoroughly preparing for interviews, including the psychometric tests often utilized by UK employers. Thirdly, recognize that while the Graduate Route provides flexibility, the ultimate objective for long-term residency is acquiring a Skilled Worker visa. Hence, actively aim for positions that align with the Skilled Worker visa requirements (e.g., RQF Level 6/graduate level and meeting salary minimums) and explicitly ask about sponsorship during your application process. The changes to UK student visas in 2025 highlight the necessity of being flexible and innovative, but with proper preparation and a targeted job search, many international graduates can accomplish securing a sponsored position within 18 months. Worldify Overseas Pvt. Ltd. is available to provide customized advice and support to help you effectively navigate this competitive landscape.
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