Why You May Not Get the UK Post-Study Work Visa and How to Avoid It – As an international student in the UK, obtaining a post-study work visa (PSW) may be one of your top priorities.
The PSW allows you to work in the UK after completing your studies, providing you with valuable work experience and the opportunity to enhance your career prospects. However, getting the PSW is not always straightforward, and there are several reasons why your application may be rejected.
In this article, we will explore the key factors that may lead to the rejection of your PSW application and provide advice on how to avoid them.
UK clarifies post-study work visa eligibility after confusion
In September 2019, the UK government announced the reintroduction of the PSW visa, which allows international students to work in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies.
However, there was confusion among international students regarding the eligibility criteria for the visa. To clarify the situation, the UK government released detailed guidelines outlining the requirements for the PSW visa.
To be eligible for the PSW visa, you must have completed a degree-level course or above from a UK higher education institution that has a track record of compliance with UK immigration rules. Additionally, you must have a valid Tier 4 student visa, which must be valid on the date of your PSW visa application.
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Post-study work visa UK eligibility
Apart from the basic eligibility requirements, there are other factors that may affect your eligibility for the PSW visa. For example, if you have previously received the PSW visa, you will not be eligible to apply for it again. Similarly, if you have previously worked in the UK on a Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa, you will not be eligible for the PSW visa.
Another factor that may affect your eligibility is your course of study. If your course is not recognized by the UK government or is not at a degree level or above, you will not be eligible for the PSW visa. Similarly, if you have been studying at a lower level than the degree level for more than three years, you will not be eligible.
Post-study work visa UK rejection
One of the primary reasons for the rejection of PSW visa applications is the failure to meet the eligibility criteria. However, there are other reasons why your application may be rejected.
For example, if you have provided false information or documents in your application, your application will be rejected. Similarly, if you have a criminal record or have breached UK immigration laws, your application may be rejected.
Another reason for the rejection of PSW visa applications is a lack of evidence to support your application. You must provide evidence of your qualifications, including your degree certificate and transcripts, as well as evidence of your financial situation and your intention to leave the UK at the end of your visa period.
UK post-study work visa latest update
The latest update on the PSW visa is that it will be available to students who graduate in the summer of 2021 or later. The visa will allow international students to work in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies. The application process for the visa is expected to open in the summer of 2021.
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PSW rejection rate
The rejection rate for PSW visa applications varies depending on a range of factors, including the quality of the application and the evidence provided. According to recent statistics, the overall rejection rate for Tier 4 visa applications, which includes the PSW visa, was around 14% in 2019.
To avoid rejection, it is essential to ensure that your application is complete and accurate and that you provide all the required documentation. If you are unsure about any aspect of the application process, seek advice from a qualified immigration advisor.
UK PSW Visa is Closing in 2023
Another reason why you may not get the UK Post Study Work Visa is that the scheme is closing in 2023. The PSW Visa was reintroduced in 2020 after being abolished in 2012, but it will only be available for a limited time. If you do not apply before the scheme closes, you will not be able to apply for the PSW Visa.
To avoid missing out on the PSW Visa, it’s important to plan ahead and apply as early as possible. You should also ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and have all the required documents before submitting your application.
Post Study Work Visa UK Working Hours
It’s also important to note that there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work on the PSW Visa. You are only allowed to work full-time or part-time, up to a maximum of 20 hours per week during term-time, and full-time during vacation periods.
If you work more than the allowed hours, you risk having your visa canceled, and you may also be barred from re-entering the UK in the future. It’s important to keep track of your working hours and ensure that you are not breaching the terms of your visa.
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PSW Visa UK Latest News 2023
The UK government announced some changes to the PSW Visa in 2020, which came into effect on July 1, 2021. Under the new rules, international students who complete their degree in the UK from the summer 2021 onwards will be able to stay in the UK for up to 2 years to work or look for work.
Additionally, students who complete a Ph.D. in the UK will be able to stay in the country for up to 3 years. This is an increase from the previous 2-year limit. These changes are aimed at attracting and retaining talented international students in the UK.
However, it is important to note that these changes do not apply to students who completed their degree before July 1, 2021. If you fall under this category, you will need to apply under the previous rules.
Conclusion
Obtaining the UK PSW Visa can be a great opportunity to work and gain valuable experience in the UK after completing your studies.
However, there are several reasons why you may not get a visa. These include not meeting the minimum working hours requirement, not having a job offer that meets the requirements of the visa, or not meeting other eligibility criteria.
To avoid these issues, you must ensure that you are able to work the required number of hours, have a job offer that meets the visa requirements, and meet all other eligibility criteria. It is also important to stay up to date with the latest news and changes to visa requirements to ensure that you are fully informed when applying.
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