UK Graduate Visa Rules: There is good news for Indian students who want to pursue higher studies in Britain. The British government has changed the previous decision regarding Graduate Visa. International students who have obtained a degree from a selected UK university can now stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years after completing their studies.
According to the British government’s budget document, the duration of graduate visas will be extended from 18 months to 2 years for students who complete their graduation from universities that are most compliant with the rules and have good results in getting students employed. Earlier, the government had decided to reduce the duration of graduate visa from 2 years to 18 months, effective from January 2027. However, the new decision will allow students from eligible universities to get another 2 years.
What will benefit Indian students?
According to Saurabh Arora, founder and CEO of University Living, this decision could prove to be very beneficial for Indian students. After completing their studies, students will have more time to find a job, gain international work experience and develop a professional network.
He has advised students to be very careful while choosing a university. A university which fulfills the required criteria for a graduate visa and where good employment opportunities are available should be given priority. Along with this, tuition fees and accommodation expenses also need to be considered. Getting a visa offers a job opportunity, but does not guarantee a job.
Will Britain become more popular amid America’s OPT rules?
There is a discussion going on about the change in the rules of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for foreign students in America. It has been mentioned that the US Department of Homeland Security has proposed an initial fee of $70,000 for OPT and an additional fee of $30,000 at the subsequent approval stage. However, this proposal is yet to be implemented.
In such a situation, Britain’s decision can be helpful in attracting international students. According to Saurabh Arora, Britain could become a more attractive option for students. However, this popularity will also depend on how easily students can find jobs in Britain, how much it costs to study and how much career benefit a degree can provide.
Notably, the official list of eligible universities for the 2-year graduate visa has not been announced at present. So Indian students need to check the eligibility and visa rules before taking admission in the university.
Difficulty may increase for Indians waiting for green card in America
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