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UK PR After Study: Best Immigration Routes for International Graduates

The UK is one of the most popular destinations for international students—and for good reason. It offers world-class education, a multicultural experience, and strong employment prospects. But what comes next after graduation? Many students ask the big question: how to get PR in UK after study?

In this guide, you’ll learn how to go from student to permanent resident, step by step. Whether you’re planning ahead or already on a post study work visa in UK, this guide covers all the major immigration routes that lead to permanent residence UK.

Key Takeaways

The UK offers multiple immigration routes for international graduates to move toward permanent residency.
The UK post study work visa, also known as PSW UK, allows you to stay and work for 2 years (3 years for PhD grads).
PR (Permanent Residency) in the UK is known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
You typically need 5 years of lawful residence to apply for ILR, but there are several paths depending on your goals and background.
Skilled Worker Visa, Graduate Route, and Start-up/Innovator Visas are some of the best options for post-study immigration.

Why Stay in the UK After Graduation?

Graduating from a UK university opens up exciting opportunities. The country has a thriving job market, global companies, and a relatively clear path to permanent residence UK. Many students choose to stay not just for jobs, but for the chance to build a life in a stable, developed country with a strong healthcare and education system.

So if you’re wondering how to get PR in UK after study, the answer lies in choosing the right visa pathway and making smart decisions after graduation.

What is PR in the UK?

PR in the UK is officially known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). It gives you the right to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions. It’s the final step before British citizenship for many immigrants.

You usually need:

5 years of continuous, lawful residence in an eligible visa category.
Proof of income, employment, or business activity.
Good immigration history.
English language proficiency and passing the “Life in the UK” test.

Let’s break down the routes to get there, starting with the post study work visa in UK.

What is the Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route)?

The UK post study work visa, officially called the Graduate Route, is designed for students who have successfully completed a degree in the UK. This visa lets you stay and work in the UK after graduation—without needing a job offer upfront.

Quick Facts:

Duration: 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).
Eligibility: You must have completed a UK degree or higher from a recognized institution.
No Sponsorship Needed: Unlike other work visas, employers don’t need to sponsor you.
Work Flexibility: You can work full-time, part-time, freelance, or even start a business.

This visa is perfect if you’re unsure of your long-term plans. It buys you time to gain experience, build connections, and figure out your next steps.

Route 1: Skilled Worker Visa

After or during your PSW UK period, many graduates transition to a Skilled Worker Visa, which is the most direct path to PR.

Why It’s a Popular Option:

It counts toward the 5-year residency requirement for ILR.
You can switch from the Graduate Route at any time if you secure a qualifying job.
Salaries and occupations are defined clearly in the government’s shortage occupation list.

Requirements:

A confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor license.
Minimum salary threshold (usually £26,200 or £10.75/hour unless in shortage roles).
Knowledge of English.

ILR Path:

Stay on the Skilled Worker visa for 5 years, meet salary and residency requirements, and apply for PR.

Route 2: Health and Care Worker Visa

This is a special subcategory of the Skilled Worker route, aimed at healthcare professionals. It’s also a fast-track to PR.

If you’re in nursing, medicine, social work, or related fields, this visa offers reduced fees, faster processing, and no immigration health surcharge.

Just like the Skilled Worker Visa, it counts toward the 5-year requirement for permanent residence UK.

Route 3: Start-up and Innovator Visas

Have a business idea? The UK welcomes entrepreneurs under two key visas:

Start-up Visa

For early-stage but high-potential entrepreneurs.
Requires endorsement from an approved body.
Lasts 2 years, not extendable, but can lead to the Innovator route.

Innovator Founder Visa

Requires a viable, scalable business idea and endorsement.
Duration: 3 years, extendable.
After 3 years, you can apply for PR if you meet criteria.

This route is less traveled but excellent for those with strong business plans and long-term ambitions in the UK.

Route 4: Spouse or Partner Visa

If you marry or become the long-term partner of a British citizen or a person with ILR, you may apply for a Spouse Visa.

Conditions:

You must live together and prove a genuine relationship.
You need to meet income and English language requirements.

You can apply for ILR after 5 years on this visa. This route is often overlooked but is very viable for those who start relationships during their time studying or working in the UK.

Route 5: Global Talent Visa

This is for graduates with exceptional achievements in fields like academia, arts, or digital technology.

You’ll need:

An endorsement from a recognized UK body (like Tech Nation or the British Academy).
Proof of awards, publications, or industry recognition.

This visa doesn’t require a job offer and can lead to ILR in just 3 years.

It’s ideal for researchers, scientists, tech experts, and creatives who stand out in their field.

How to Plan Your PR Journey as a Student

Let’s make this practical. If you’re just graduating or about to, here’s a roadmap to follow:

Year 0: Graduate

Finish your degree.
Apply for the UK post study work visa (PSW UK).

Years 1-2: Work & Build Experience

Find a job that qualifies under the Skilled Worker Visa.
Alternatively, work toward launching a start-up, building a talent profile, or forming personal connections.

Years 2-5: Apply for Long-Term Visa

Transition to a Skilled Worker, Innovator, or Spouse Visa.
Keep immigration records clean.
Renew your visa if needed.

Year 5: Apply for ILR

Meet the continuous residency requirement.
Pass Life in the UK test and prove income and English ability.
Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (PR).

Common Questions About PR After Study

Can I get PR directly after my PSW UK visa?

No, the Graduate Route does not count toward the 5-year PR residency. You’ll need to switch to a PR-eligible visa like the Skilled Worker.

Is there an age limit for getting PR in the UK?

No. Age is not a limiting factor for PR. What matters is your visa category, residency, and compliance with immigration rules.

Does my time as a student count toward ILR?

Unfortunately, no. Time on a student visa doesn’t count toward the 5 years required for PR.

How long does it take to get PR in UK after study?

On average, 5 years from the time you switch to an eligible work or partner visa. Some routes, like the Global Talent visa, allow PR in just 3 years.

Final Thoughts: Be Strategic and Start Early

Figuring out how to get PR in UK after study doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to plan your path early, choose the right visa based on your goals, and stay informed.

With the post study work visa in UK, you have a great starting point. From there, your options open up—whether through employment, entrepreneurship, or partnerships. Stick to the rules, keep your documentation in order, and you’ll be on track for permanent residence UK before you know it.

Remember: PR isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of your life as a long-term UK resident. With the right strategy, you can go from fresh graduate to British citizen over time.

If you’re serious about your future in the UK, start planning now.