UK Government Proposes Stricter Post-Study Work Requirements for International Graduates

The UK government is set to introduce proposals requiring international students to secure graduate-level employment within two years of completing their studies or face deportation. This initiative, part of an upcoming immigration white paper, aims to address rising net migration by tightening post-study visa regulations.

Currently, international graduates can remain in the UK for up to two years without employment. The new policy would mandate that these graduates obtain positions that align with their qualifications within this timeframe. Discussions suggest that the salary threshold for such roles may range between £36,000 and £40,000 annually, though official figures have yet to be confirmed.

Jo Grady, General Secretary of the University and College Union, criticized the proposed changes, stating that further restricting international students’ ability to live and work in the UK would be detrimental to the higher education sector, the economy, and the country’s global standing.

This proposal follows recent immigration policy adjustments, including increased salary thresholds for skilled worker visas and limitations on dependants accompanying foreign students. These measures have already led to a significant decline in visa applications, with a reported 26,000 drop between January and March 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

The forthcoming white paper is expected to provide detailed guidelines on the implementation of these stricter post-study work requirements, reflecting the government’s commitment to reducing net migration and ensuring that international graduates contribute to the UK’s skilled workforce.