As an international student, completing your studies abroad opens up a world of opportunities, but what comes next? Many students aim to extend their stay and gain valuable work experience after graduation.
Luckily, countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia offer post-study work visas for graduates. These visas provide a fantastic opportunity to launch your career, build professional networks, and gain hands-on experience in your field.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the application process for post-study work visas in these countries, including eligibility criteria, requirements, and tips for a successful application.
Post-Study Work Visa in the UK
The UK offers the Graduate Visa, which allows international students to work or look for work at any skill level for up to two years after completing an eligible course in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must have successfully completed a degree at a recognized UK institution.
The course must be at least degree level or above.
Your application must be submitted within two months of receiving your results.
Application Process:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your degree is eligible for a Graduate Visa. Your university must also be on the approved list.
- Gather Documents: Key documents include your passport, a confirmation of your qualification, and a record of your studies.
- Apply Online: You can apply online through the official UK government website. Pay the application fee (usually around £700) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Wait for Approval: Once your application is processed, you’ll be notified about the approval.
Additional Tips:
The Graduate Visa allows you to switch jobs and work in different sectors, including flexible working.
You can also switch to a Skilled Worker Visa after two years if you meet the requirements.
Post-Study Work Visa in the USA
The USA offers the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students. OPT allows you to work in the US for up to one year after graduation, with the possibility of an extension for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) graduates.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must be an international student with an F-1 Visa.
Your program must be completed at a US-based university and be eligible for OPT.
Apply for OPT before graduation (usually up to 90 days in advance) and within 60 days after graduation.
Application Process:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your university is certified by SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program), and your degree qualifies for OPT.
- File Your Application: Apply through USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) by submitting Form I-765.
- Wait for Approval: After filing, you’ll receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to legally work in the USA.
- Start Working: Once approved, you can work in your field of study for up to 12 months (24 months for STEM graduates).
Additional Tips:
For STEM graduates, the OPT STEM extension allows an additional 24 months of work.
You can only work for 20 hours/week while classes are in session, but full-time work is permitted during breaks.
Post-Study Work Visa in Canada
Canada offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which is one of the most popular options for international graduates. The PGWP allows you to work in Canada for up to three years depending on the length of your program.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must have completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
The program must have lasted at least 8 months.
You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final transcript.
Application Process:
- Check Eligibility: Make sure your educational institution is a DLI, and the program you completed qualifies for the PGWP.
- Gather Documents: Required documents include proof of graduation, your passport, and a valid study permit.
- Apply Online: You can apply online via the IRCC website. The application fee is around C$255.
- Wait for Approval: Your work permit will be issued after approval. The validity depends on the length of your program (up to three years).
Additional Tips:
While on a PGWP, you can work full-time and gain Canadian work experience, which may lead to permanent residency through the Express Entry Program.
Be sure to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing the 180-day deadline.
Post-Study Work Visa in Australia
Australia provides the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) for international students who have recently graduated.
This visa has two streams: the Graduate Work Stream and the Post-Study Work Stream, both offering opportunities to work in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must have completed a qualifying degree from a registered Australian education provider.
You must be under the age of 50.
Your qualification must be closely related to an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
Application Process:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your qualification and field of study align with the required criteria for the Temporary Graduate Visa.
- Gather Documents: Collect your degree certificate, passport, and other required documents.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the Department of Home Affairs website. The application fee varies depending on the stream.
- Wait for Approval: Once approved, you can live, work, and study in Australia temporarily (up to four years for eligible applicants).
Additional Tips:
The Post-Study Work Stream allows you to stay and work in Australia for two to four years, depending on the level of your qualification.
Be sure to meet the English language requirements for the visa application.
Securing a post-study work visa in the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia is an exciting opportunity to gain international work experience after graduation.
While each country has its own specific process, the key to a successful application is understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and applying within the required time frame.
Follow this step-by-step guide for each country, and you’ll be on your way to launching your career abroad!
