So, you’ve finished your studies and want to stay in the UK for work? If you get a job offer, your employer may be able to sponsor you under the Skilled Worker Route.

Work After Your Studies

Work After Your Studies


What is the Skilled Worker Route?

This visa lets you work in the UK if:
Your employer is licensed to sponsor workers (check the Home Office register)
You meet the job & salary requirements
You apply under the right sub-category

There are different visa categories under the Skilled Worker Route & Tier 5 – check the Home Office website for details.

How to Apply for a Work Visa

Your employer’s HR team should help you with the visa process, but it’s good to be prepared!

Need guidance? The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has great information on working after studies here.


Money Requirements

To apply, you may need to show:

£1270 maintained in your bank account for at least 28 days, shown in a bank statement that is no more than 31 days old on the date of your visa application. 

Bringing family? Check the financial requirements for them on the Home Office website  


When Can You Start Working?

If you’re unsure whether you can work while waiting for your visa to be granted, check with your employer


Can You Extend Your Visa?

You may be able to extend your Skilled Worker Route visa if your employer continues to sponsor you
Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) visas cannot be extended


Want More Info?

Visit the Home Office website for visa details
Check UKCISA for work & visa advice here

Got questions? Contact the Student Visa Compliance and Advice team on visa-enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Good luck with your job search!