Permanent Residency in UK After Study

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Discover how to achieve permanent residency in the UK after study. Learn the steps, eligibility, and best pathways for international students to secure PR in the UK. In this article we discuss about Permanent Residency in UK After Study.

How to Get Permanent Residency in UK After Study

Many international students dream of obtaining permanent residency in the UK after study. The UK offers various pathways for students to stay and work after completing their education, eventually leading to permanent residency. Let’s explore the steps and reasons why studying in the UK can be a stepping stone to securing a permanent residency.

Why Seek Permanent Residency in UK After Study?

Career Opportunities: The UK is home to many global companies, offering excellent job prospects for graduates. Obtaining permanent residency in the UK after study allows you to stay and work without restrictions.
High Standard of Living: The UK offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare, education, and public services, making it an attractive destination for long-term settlement.
Cultural Diversity: The UK is known for its multicultural environment, making it a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.
Family Benefits: Permanent residency allows you to bring your family to the UK and enjoy the same rights as UK citizens in terms of healthcare, education, and social services.

Steps to Get Permanent Residency in UK After Study

To obtain permanent residency in the UK after study, students need to follow a step-by-step process, which includes working in the UK and fulfilling specific requirements:

1. Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work Visa)

After completing your studies, you can apply for a Graduate Visa, which allows you to stay in the UK for two years (three years if you have a PhD) to look for work or start working. This visa is a crucial first step toward permanent residency.

2. Skilled Worker Visa

Once you find a job, the next step is to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa. This visa allows you to work in the UK for up to five years, provided your employer sponsors your visa. During this time, you must:

Have a job offer from a UK employer.
Earn a minimum salary (usually £26,000 or more, depending on the job).
Work in an occupation that is listed as eligible for sponsorship.

3. Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

After working in the UK for five continuous years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR is the official term for permanent residency, which allows you to live and work in the UK without any restrictions.

Requirements for ILR:

Continuous residence in the UK for at least five years.
Meet the minimum income requirement.
Pass the Life in the UK test and meet the English language proficiency.

4. British Citizenship

After holding ILR for at least 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship. Becoming a British citizen provides full rights, including the right to vote and obtain a British passport.

Chart: Pathway to Permanent Residency in UK After Study

Step	Description	Duration
Graduate Visa	Stay in the UK after study to find work	2-3 years
Skilled Worker Visa	Work in the UK under a company sponsorship	Up to 5 years
Indefinite Leave to Remain	Apply for permanent residency after working 5 years	5+ years total
British Citizenship	Apply for citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months	After 1 year of ILR

Benefits of Permanent Residency in UK After Study

No Visa Hassle: With permanent residency, you no longer need a visa to live, work, or travel in and out of the UK.
Access to Public Funds: Permanent residents have access to public services like healthcare, education, and social benefits.
Family Settlement: You can bring your spouse and children to the UK, and they can also apply for permanent residency.
Path to Citizenship: After obtaining ILR, you can apply for British citizenship, granting full rights as a UK national.

FAQs on Permanent Residency in UK After Study

1. How long does it take to get permanent residency in the UK after studying?
It usually takes at least five years of continuous work in the UK to be eligible for permanent residency.

2. Can I apply for permanent residency in the UK directly after completing my studies?
No, you first need to obtain a Graduate Visa or a Skilled Worker Visa in uk and meet specific work and residence requirements.

3. What is the minimum salary requirement for a Skilled Worker Visa?
The minimum salary required for a Skilled Worker Visa is generally £26,000 per year, but it may vary depending on the job and region.

4. What is the Life in the UK test, and do I need to pass it to get permanent residency?
The Life in the UK test assesses your knowledge of UK history, culture, and laws. Passing this test is a requirement for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

5. Can I bring my family to the UK after getting permanent residency?
Yes, once you have permanent residency, your spouse and children can join you in the UK, and they may also apply for permanent residency.

Conclusion

Obtaining permanent residency in the UK after study is a multi-step process that involves working in the UK and meeting specific eligibility criteria. By following the Graduate Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, and ILR pathway, international students can eventually secure permanent residency. With the right planning and effort, achieving permanent residency in the UK can open doors to exciting career opportunities and a high quality of life.

Read more about :- How to Study in UK for Free