- 06 Feb, 2024
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Understanding Post-Study Work Visas- UK, USA, Australia, Canada, and Germany
In today’s interconnected world, pursuing higher education abroad is a dream for many. It’s not just about earning a degree; it’s also about the enriching experiences and career opportunities that come with it. One key aspect that attracts students to study overseas is the prospect of securing a post-study work visa, which opens doors to employment and potentially permanent residency in their host country. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about post-study work visas in five popular study destinations: the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, and Germany.
What is a Post-Study Work Visa?
A post-study work visa, also known as a Graduate Route in some countries, allows international students to stay in their host country after completing their studies to work or seek employment for a certain period. This visa is a bridge between education and employment, offering graduates the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and explore career prospects in their field of study. Post study work visa allows one to stay in a country for 2 to 4 years but it depends upon the course of study.
Benefits of Post-Study Work Visa
Securing a post-study work visa offers several advantages:
- Gain Work Experience: Graduates can gain practical experience in their field of study, enhancing their employability and career prospects.
- Expand Professional Network: Working abroad allows graduates to build connections with industry professionals, opening doors to new job opportunities and mentorship.
- Cultural Immersion: Living and working in a foreign country provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture, broadening horizons and fostering personal growth.
- Path to Permanent Residency: Many countries offer pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers, making post-study work visas a stepping stone towards building a long-term life abroad.
Post-Study Work Visas in Different Countries
Let’s explore the post-study work visa options in our featured countries:
- United Kingdom (UK): Offers Graduate Route visas for up to two years (three for PhD graduates).
| Cost of PSW in UK | £715 and an annual health surcharge of £624 |
| Duration of PSW in UK | Up to 2 Year |
| Processing Time | 8 weeks |
- United States of America (USA): Provides Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to 12 months (Additional 24 Months for STEM graduates).
| Cost of PSW in USA | USD 160additional SEVIS fee of USD 350 |
| Duration of PSW in USA | 24 months after graduation under a US student visa, with an additional 12 months for OPT. |
| Processing Time | 90 Days |
- Australia: Grants Temporary Graduate visas for two to four years, depending on the duration of the degree program.
| Cost of PSW in Australia | A graduate work stream temporary visa costs AU$ 1650. A graduate visa for a post-study job stream costs AU$ 1650. A graduate visa for skilled workers costs AU$ 405. |
| Duration of PSW in Australia | Maximum of 4 years |
| Processing Time | Between 3 to 4 months |
- Canada: Offers Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) for the duration of the study program if program is less than or equal to 1 year. If students pursue their study program for 2 years then they are eligible for 3 years PSW.
| Cost of PSW in Canada | CAD 255 |
| Duration of PSW in Canada | Based on program |
| Processing Time | 141 days. |
- Germany: Allows an extended 18-month Job Seeking Visa after graduation.
| Cost of PSW in Germany | €80 |
| Duration of PSW in Germany | 18-month |
| Processing Time | 1-3 Month |
FAQs
What is a work visa for UK graduates? Answer: International students approved to remain in the UK under the Graduate route can work or seek employment for two years, or three years for PhD graduates, upon completing their studies. There are no set minimum wage requirements, and sponsorship for a visa is unnecessary, allowing employment in any industry and at any level.
Is IELTS a requirement for a UK work visa? Answer: To take the “IELTS for UKVI” test, individuals applying for UK visas must register at one of the UKVI locations. The IELTS exam is tailored to meet various administrative requirements specific to UK Visas and Immigration. The test structure and questions remain the same.
Who is eligible for a PSW in Canada? Answer: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have obtained a Grade 12 English grade of C or U, or an equivalent qualification. Proficiency in the English language is essential.
What types of post-study work visas are available in Australia? Answer: Australia offers three types of post-study work visas, including the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) under the Post-Study Work Stream and Graduate Work Stream, as well as the Skilled Recognised Graduate Visa (Subclass 476).
Which country is ideal for a post-study work visa? Answer: Some of the top countries to consider for obtaining a Post-Study Work Visa include the USA, UK, United Kingdom, and Canada. These nations offer a high quality of life, excellent education, and abundant employment opportunities.
This article aims to provide a brief overview of post-study work visas. For further information on visa policies and types across different countries, please follow GoGrad