2011/12 International Students and Work (after your studies)

Produced by Middlesex University Student Welfare Advice Team (SWAT)

Rough Cut:

If you are coming to the end of your studies in the UK, you maybe considering staying on to work. This leaflet gives a very brief overview of the schemes that are likely to be of particular relevance to students. The information given here describes the schemes available as of 1st June 2011. However, you should be aware that the Government restrictions is introducing restrictions to work from April 2012. Remember: If you want to stay in the UK under one of these schemes, you must make your application before your current permission to stay as a student runs out. For some of the schemes, you might have to return to your home country before an application is made. This is because there are strict rules aboutswitchingfrom one immigration category to another. For many of the schemes, students must have successfully obtained their qualification, before applying to switch into the scheme. If you have been sponsored by a government or international scholarship agency, most of the schemes require that you obtain their consent before you apply to stay on in the UK. If in doubt seek advice
Can I stay on and work after my studies?

scheme. In order to qualify you will also have to fulfil the maintenance fund requirement. If you are applying from your home country you must show you have a cash reserve of 2,800 in your bank account. This amount must be in your bank for three months before you submit your visa application.
Is there also a maintenance fund requirement if I apply in the UK?

Yes. You will have to show you have minimum savings of at least 800 in your bank account, for at least three months before applying. You only need to show you have these funds at the time of applying.
Are there any restrictions on what I can do and for how long?

You can take up any type of employment (paid or unpaid), be self employed or run a business. The maximum period of leave is for 2 years.
How do I qualify?

Applicants must show they meet the points criteria.

How do I know what points are awarded?

Applicants are recommended to use the on-line tool that enables them to see if they have the required points at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/pointscalculator Under Tier 1 Post Study Work, an applicant must score at least 95 points.
Is there a charge for the PSW Visa?

You may be able to stay on and undertake training or work in the UK under one of the schemes below:

The fee for making a PSW Visa application from within the UK is 594 for a postal application and 918 when you go in person.
Can I include my family members in my PSW application?

1) Post Study Work (Tier 1) (PSW)

First we should point out that this scheme will close 2012. after April 2012. Prior to that date, in order to qualify for PSW you must have successfully obtained a recognised BA, BSc, Masters or PhD UK degree in any subject. You will only be granted permission to stay under this scheme if you have evidence that you have been awarded your qualification.
What if my student visa expires before I get my results?

If your student leave expires before you get your results, you will have to leave the UK and return home. When you receive your certificate you can then apply for entry clearance under the PSW

If your family members are currently in the UK with immigration permission as student dependants, they can apply at the same time as you to stay in the UK as your family members. If they are in the UK with some other form of immigration permission they will have to return to their home country to apply for entry clearance to return as your dependant. The fee for the application is 297 if you send your application or 459 if you go in person.

Where can I get more detailed information about this scheme?

For detailed in formation about the PSW scheme visit: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier1/posts tudy/
Can you tell me what other schemes are available?

of 1,600 and your government must act as your sponsor as there are fully reciprocal quotas between certain commonwealth countries. www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier5/yout hmobilityscheme/ Student Entrepreneur (new category) This category is still under development and will not be introduced until April 2012. It is largely aimed at students who have developed world class innovative ideas in science, technology and design while studying at university and who do not want to be attached to a sponsor. We suggest you consult the Boarder Agency website at a later date for more information.
Further information:

Below you will find a brief overview of other schemes available. All schemes have rigorous conditions attached. For more detailed information click on the relevant links or seek advice. General (Tier 1) The scheme is now closed for new applicants. Exceptional Talent (Tier 1) This scheme enables those who are internationally recognised as world leaders or potential worldleading talent in the fields of science and the arts and who wish to work in the UK. For more information see: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier1/ Entrepreneurs (Tier 1) This scheme is for non-European migrants who want to invest in the UK by setting up or taking over, and being actively involved in the running of, one or more businesses here. Guidance can be found at: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier1/ The Work Permit Scheme (Tier 2) The government has imposed strict limits on this scheme since April 2011. However, an employer can still apply for a work permit in order to offer a job to someone who would not otherwise be allowed to work in the UK, as it cannot be filled by a settled worker. The employer will act as a sponsor and they must show you have the required qualifications and attributes for the job; including English proficiency levels at B1. In addition the position must attract a salary of at least 20,000. There are also points for specified maintenance funds. See below for more information. www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier2/gene ral/ Youth Mobility Scheme (Tier 5) You cannot switch into this category from within the UK. You may be eligible if you are a specified Commonwealth citizen aged between 17 and 30. You can stay in the UK for up to 2 years and work. You must show you have maintenance funds

UKCISA UKCISA Website: www.ukcisa.org.uk Student Advice Line Mon-Fri 1-4pm Tel: 020 7107 9922 Home Office website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk If you have any questions regarding issues covered on this Rough Cut contact the Student Welfare Advice Team. Our details: Archway: Archway Chloe Berman, ext. 6182 c.berman@mdx.ac.uk Hendon: Julie Roberts/Judith Cringle Kevin Ward ext. 6527/6482/6589 j.roberts@mdx.ac.uk j.cringle@mdx.ac.uk k.ward@mdx.ac.uk Christine Struwe Visa and immigration Adviser ext: 5326, c.struwe@mdx.ac.uk Park: Trent Park Geraldine Bailey, Head of Service Ext: 6074 g.bailey@mdx.ac.uk Christine Struwe Visa and immigration Adviser ext: 5326, c.struwe@mdx.ac.uk (Wednesdays only) You can also email us at: welfare@mdx.ac.uk There are more Rough Cuts at:
http://unihub.mdx.ac.uk/support/swat/roughcuts/index.aspx
Middlesex University Student Welfare Advice Team have made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this leaflet is accurate. Middlesex University however, cannot be held responsible for any omissions or errors. This publication can only be a guide and is not intended to replace the complex and diverse legislation covered. Statutes and regulations may change during the year without notice. If in doubt seek independent advice.