Query regarding visa change after completion of studies

[haroon3194]

Hi,

I am on a student visa and hoping to finish my level-7 degree (Masters) in coming September 2024.

There will be 3 options to switch after completion:

1. Post Study work visa (PSW)
2. Innovator Visa (Tier-1)
3. Job sponsor visa (Tier-2)

If I switch directly from a student visa to Tier-1 or Tier-2 after completing my degree, would I be able to apply for a PSW visa later ever if required?

Thank you

Regards,
Haroon

[CR001]

You can only apply for a graduate visa from a student visa.

This is clearly stated on the ukvi website.

If you apply for any other visa route such as innovator or skilled worker, you are not eligible to then switch to graduate route later.

[haroon3194]

thanks for your reply.

What will be the scenario, if I apply for Tier-2 and it's rejected, would I be able to apply for a graduate visa?

[sah10406]

1. Post Study work visa (PSW)
2. Innovator Visa (Tier-1)
3. Job sponsor visa (Tier-2)

To clarify, the visas in question are

1. Graduate visa
2. Innovator Founder visa
3. Skilled worker visa

The Tier 1 Post Study Work visa was abolished over 10 years ago, and the wider concept of Tier 1 was dropped shortly afterwards. The Tier 2 (General) visa was replaced with the Skilled worker visa in 2020.

[sah10406]

What will be the scenario, if I apply for Tier-2 and it's rejected, would I be able to apply for a graduate visa?

It is only rejected for not meeting the validity requirements, so you need make sure you meet them when you apply, not just hope for the best. See Appendix Skilled worker, paragraphs SW 1.1 to SW 1.6.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration ... led-worker

You then need to meet the eligibility for the visa, which your employer will work with you to ensure you do.

https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa