In the dynamic realm of global talent acquisition, companies encounter novel obstacles as well as promising prospects. Recent changes to immigration laws that went into effect in April of this year have increased the difficulty and cost of hiring foreign labour for British companies.

Raising the minimum income criterion for skilled worker visas and substituting the Immigration Income List (ISL) for the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) are two of these reforms intended to decrease net migration and increase local employment.

Visa Options for Recent Graduates

New Entrants: A Path for Entry-Level Talent

'New entrants' via the Skilled Worker route is one feasible option for firms. Companies may sponsor employees at a reduced compensation level under this category if an employee fits certain requirements. Candidates under the age of 26, those working in certain tasks related to scientific research, professionals pursuing official certifications, and new graduates or students are all eligible.

New participants in this programme are required to receive at least £30,960 annually, or 70% of the average wage for their line of work. Nonetheless, certain positions in the health and education sectors have separate pay scales, which enables companies to hire entry-level workers for less money.

International Graduates: Unlocking Post-Study Opportunities

Obtaining talent can also be accomplished through the UK's Graduate visa. With this visa, foreign students who have finished their education at a UK institution can remain and work in the nation.

PhD graduates have a three-year window of admission, whereas holders of undergraduate and master's degrees can stay for up to two years. Employers do not need a Home Office sponsor licence to hire people under this category because the visa is unsponsored.

It is noteworthy that although the Graduate visa provides immediate employment prospects following graduation, extensions beyond the visa's validity period are not permitted. If graduates fit the requirements, employers hoping to keep talent after this time may want to sponsor them through other channels, such as the skilled worker visa.

International Students: Work Rights during Studies

International students travelling on a student visa provide a possible pool of applicants for companies looking to find talent early in their academic careers.

These students are permitted to work a restricted number of hours in addition to their studies; the amount they are paid depends on the course level and the institution's compliance history. During term time, full-time degree students can often work up to 20 hours per week; during breaks, they can work full-time.

Restrictions do, however, apply to postgraduate students who are studying part-time or at universities where there are compliance problems. Businesses must make sure that student's eligibility to work complies with institutional rules and visa regulations.

FAQS

Can the duration of a Graduate Visa be extended?

No, the Graduate visa cannot be extended past its original term of validity. Businesses who want to keep their graduates on staff after this time frame would want to think about other immigration options.

Do any prospective or current reviews of visa regulations impacting recent grads exist?

To make sure the Graduate route is in line with UK priorities, the Home Office has commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to assess it. Regarding prospective policy changes, employers should keep an eye on developments from the government and the MAC.