Q: Are there any alternatives to the UK Tier 1 visa post-study work route that I believe is being closed? I am currently a student and was hoping to switch into this route.
A: Yes, it is true that the Tier 1 Visa (Post-study Work) route will close to new applicants on 5 April 2012.
The good news however is that under new provisions introduced by the UK Home Office, graduates who would previously been eligible under the Post-study route, will now be able to switch into Tier 2 Visa (General).
The Tier 2 Visa (General) will be open to recent graduates with a Bachelor, Master, PhD, PGCE or PGDE from a UK recognised or listed body. Applicants must have a skilled job offer from a licensed sponsor and be paid at least £20,000 per annum or the minimum appropriate rate for the occupation. The employer will not be required to complete a resident labour market test and the job will not be subject to the annual Tier 2 visa limit.
You will also be able to sponsor dependants.
Please contact our offices for further information.
Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants
JP Breytenbach
Director of Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants
www.bic-immigration.com
info@bic-immigration.com