Your Situation: A Critical Juncture
You've successfully graduated from a UK university and secured a coveted position in the UK Civil Service or similar employment. Congratulations! However, your Student visa has an expiry date, and it doesn't permit permanent, full-time employment. This guide is designed to clarify your primary visa routes, helping you make an informed decision to seamlessly transition into your new career. We will explore your main options, compare their key features, and outline the steps you need to take.
Your Main Visa Options at a Glance
Comparing Your Two Main Pathways
Route 1: The Graduate Visa
This route offers flexibility and time to gain work experience without needing immediate employer sponsorship. It acts as a bridge between your studies and a long-term work visa.
Route 2: The Skilled Worker Visa
This is a long-term sponsored route. It provides more stability and a direct path to settling in the UK, but has stricter job and salary requirements.
Side-by-Side Feature Comparison
This chart directly compares the key requirements and benefits of each visa. The Skilled Worker visa has a higher barrier to entry (sponsorship, salary) but offers a clear path to settlement. The Graduate visa is easier to obtain post-graduation but is a temporary, non-extendable route.
Your Decision & Application Pathway
Navigating the visa change process requires careful planning. This flowchart outlines the critical steps and decision points, from initial discussions with your employer to submitting your application. Remember to start this process well before your Student visa expires.
Step 1: You are Here
Recent UK Graduate with a Civil Service Job Offer on a Student Visa.
Step 2: Crucial Action
Consult with your Civil Service HR department. Ask: "Can my role be sponsored for a Skilled Worker visa?"
Decision Point: YES
Your employer confirms they can sponsor you.
Next Step: Skilled Worker Route
Your employer provides a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You apply for the Skilled Worker Visa before your Student Visa expires.
Outcome
Long-term employment secured. Path to UK settlement (ILR) begins.
Decision Point: NO
Sponsorship is not possible at this time.
Next Step: Graduate Route
Apply for the Graduate Visa before your Student Visa expires. You do not need sponsorship.
Outcome
Work for up to 2 years. Continue discussions with your employer about future Skilled Worker sponsorship before this visa ends.