The Ultimate UK Immigration Pathway: From Student to Settled Status (Indefinite Leave to Remain) a cost-effective route for UK employers.
For employers in the UK's competitive talent market, understanding the immigration pathway from student to settled status can unlock significant benefits for your business. Employing graduates on student or graduate visas offers cost savings and access to skilled graduates eager to build their careers in the UK.
The Four-Stage Journey
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Student Visa
International students come to the UK on Student visas to complete their qualifications at approved UK institutions. During this time, they develop skills and knowledge while adapting to British culture and workplace norms.
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Graduate Visa
Upon completing their studies, graduates can seamlessly switch to a Graduate visa, allowing them to work unsponsored in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates). This period gives them valuable work experience while employers can evaluate their potential without sponsoring them.
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Skilled Worker Visa
When you identify a graduate as the right fit for a permanent role, they can switch to a Skilled Worker visa. This is where the benefits begin:
- No Immigration Skills Charge when Student visa holders switch straight into the Skilled Worker route– Helping businesses save thousands by avoiding the Immigration Skills Charge normally payable for non-student visa holders or overseas applicants
- New Entrant salary discount – Pay up to 30% less than the standard going rate for former students and graduates (for positions up to 4 years)
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Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, employees can apply for permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), providing long-term workforce stability for your business and no further sponsorship fees for the individual.
Benefits to Employers:
Hiring international graduates offers UK businesses significant advantages, including reduced recruitment costs through savings on immigration charges and salary thresholds. With their UK-based education and work experience, Graduate visa holders present a lower hiring risk and are more likely to stay long-term due to a clear route to settlement.
To make the most of these strategic benefits and ensure compliance, get in touch with Migrate UK for expert, tailored immigration support at info@migrate-uk.com or 01235 645800