Graduate Visa – Now Available to Students from 1 July 2021

The launch of the Graduate Visa which was introduced from 1 July 2021 is great news for students who have studied in the UK. It will allow those that have studied at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance to apply for further leave to remain for either two years or three years depending on the type of course completed.

The visa permits students to remain in the UK and work without requiring any sponsorship which can often be difficult in obtaining especially for recent graduates. This will therefore benefit the UK in retaining high calibre students who in turn would benefit the economy.

Criteria needed to be eligible:

• You must be in the UK and must have completed a degree at undergraduate level or above at a Higher education provider with a track record of compliance. In addition, there are other courses that may be recognised such as a law conversion course approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Bar Practice Course;

• You must have valid leave at the time of the application either as a Tier 4 (General) student or under the Student visa category;

• It is important to note that although you can include dependants with the application, this is only for those who are already currently in the UK as your dependant. This does not extend to new dependants unless it is a child born in the UK during the period of stay as a Tier 4 (General) student or under the Student visa category;

• You must have spent a minimum period of time studying usually for at least 12 months.

The visa however is not extendable and does not lead to settlement and therefore students wishing to remain beyond the visa duration would need to switch into another visa category for example, the Skilled Worker Route.

How we can help

At Vestra Lawyers, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you with these types of applications. It is important to ensure that you have completed the application properly and have included all the necessary documents to avoid any refusal. Contact us today to speak to our specialist solicitors by calling 0121 728 5999 / 0203 929 5999 or alternatively you can email us at info@vestralawyers.com.