Graduate Visa Review 2024

On 11th March 2024 the Home Secretary commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee to carry out a review of the Graduate Visa Route and issue their report by 14th May 2024.

The aim is to assess whether the route remains fit for purpose.
In 2012, the UK Government abolished the Post Study Work visa due to concerns over the abuse of the student visa system and the number of graduates remaining in the UK. In 2021, this was reversed, and the Graduate Visa Route was introduced.

The Graduate Visa allows graduates of UK Universities to take employment without the need for sponsorship, allowing individuals to gain experience and allowing employers to trial employment without committing to the costs associated with sponsorship. Individuals are permitted to remain in the UK for 2 years after graduation or 3 years if a PhD has been completed.

Research published yesterday revealed that the total net benefit to the UK from the Graduate Visa Route in the first full year of the scheme is estimated to be £70 million.

For further information and advice on the Graduate Visa Route, please contact our Private Immigration Department at BHD Solicitors in London & Croydon.