Working in the UK after your studies

If you are an international graduate, you will need immigration permission to undertake paid or unpaid work in the UK after completing your studies. Several visa routes allow graduates to remain in the UK and work, depending on their circumstances and eligibility.
 
Once you’ve completed your course, most Student Route visa holders have immigration permission that continues beyond their final term. During this time, you are able to work more than 20 hours per week, but your Student Route visa work restrictions still apply unless you switch to a work visa. However, you cannot start a full-time permanent full‑time job while you are still on a Student Route visa.

For information on full-time working rights, please contact the Immigration Advice Services Team: [email protected]. 
 
The information below is only a brief overview. For the most accurate and up‑to‑date guidance on post‑study options and other immigration routes, you should always check the official Home Office resources.

You can also find further details on additional visa categories on the UKCISA website. Not every route will be suitable for every student, so it’s important to read the requirements carefully and make sure you meet them before applying.

Graduate Route
Two engineering students wearing red overalls working on the aircraft hangar in pontypridd campus
Skilled Worker Route
A parent and their child sitting together at a laptop with a notebook and pencil case on the table.
Youth Mobility Scheme
Hands of an unrecognisable person typing on a laptop
Other Schemes

Further Information

The Careers and Employability Service can help you with

In addition to the information available via the link above, the Careers Service also holds specific information relevant to International Students

  • CVs
  • Application forms
  • Covering Letters
  • Interview techniques
  • Job hunting
  • Finding a placement / work experience

International Student Hotlinks

Prospects website- a comprehensive guide for international students, which covers studying in the UK, employment and immigration regulations.
UKCISA– information and advice for prospective and current international students.
Home Office – information on visas for working in the UK.
British Council- information about training and work experience opportunities.
Skillclear - information and services offered for most immigration and visa areas.