Introduction
Studying abroad is a major financial commitment and a chance for career advancement for many international students. A crucial first step in turning this academic experience into a career launchpad is to smoothly transfer from a student permit to a work permit. This thorough guide will assist you in making this shift as easy as possible.
For many international students, starting their academic career overseas marks a significant milestone. In addition to providing access to top-notch education, it provides a chance to fully immerse oneself in a new culture and lay the groundwork for future career aspirations. But the adventure doesn’t stop after you graduate. The next important step for a lot of students is to change their study permit to a work permit so they can start working and possibly even settle in their new country.
However, this shift is crucial because it converts the intellectual success attained throughout education into practical career chances. It can be difficult to navigate this process because it involves several qualifying requirements, application processes, and legal issues. To guarantee a seamless and fruitful transfer from student life to professional life, it is imperative to comprehend these elements.
Originally, the goal of this guide was to give a thorough overview of the procedures and factors to take into account while converting a study visa into a work permit. Regardless of where you are studying—in Canada, Australia, the US, the UK, or another nation—this tool will assist you in comprehending the particular pathways that are accessible, the requirements for eligibility, and the steps involved in the application process. By being familiar with these components, you will be able to ensure your future in your chosen field and nation by making proactive steps and making informed judgments.
Knowing the Fundamentals
Different between a work and study permit: A study permit enables you to remain in a nation for the length of your academic program. On the other hand, depending on the kind, a work permit gives you the legal authority to work in that nation, either temporarily or permanently.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): After completing their education, overseas graduates can work in many countries thanks to the PGWP scheme. Usually, this type of permission is open work, which means it does not bind you to a particular company.
How to Transition and Verify Your Eligibility:
Program Completion: Verify that you have finished your course of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) that has been approved by the immigration authorities.
Valid Status: At the time of your PGWP application, you must possess a valid study permit.
Application Time:
Once you have written proof (a transcript or official letter) proving you have fulfilled your program’s criteria, apply for the PGWP within the allotted period. Although it varies by nation, most countries allow applications to be submitted within 180 days of graduation confirmation.
Collect the Necessary Paperwork:
A formal letter and/or transcript from your educational institution serve as proof of completion.
Valid Passport: Verify that your passport will be valid for the whole time you intend to visit.
Study Permit: A duplicate of your permit to study.
Application Document: Fill out the appropriate application for a work permit as directed by the immigration authorities.
Send in Your Application:
Usually, applications can be filed online via the immigration website of the nation. Before submitting, make sure you have verified the accuracy and completeness of all the information.
Make the necessary application fee payments.
While You Wait, Work:
If you were allowed to work off-campus during your studies and have finished your degree, you may be authorized to work full-time in certain countries while your PGWP application is being processed.
Crucial Points to Remember
Duration of Work Permit:
There is often a correlation between the duration of your educational program and the term of your work permit. For example, you could receive a two-year work visa if you complete a two-year program.
Routes for Immigration:
A PGWP may serve as a bridge to long-term residency. Immigration routes under the PGWP are available in several nations to foreign graduates with work experience.
Preserve Legal Standing:
Maintaining your legal standing in the nation during this change is essential. Make sure your study permit is still in effect before submitting your work permit application.
Health Benefits:
You may need health insurance while visiting certain nations. Check to see if you need a new plan or if current student health insurance can be extended.
Employer Assistance:
Certain employers may assist in obtaining a work permit. During the job interview, bring this up with possible employers.
Notes Particular to Canada:
Through the PGWP, graduates can obtain useful job experience in Canada, which can be beneficial when applying through the Express Entry route for permanent residency.
Making the switch from a study permit to a work permit is essential for international students studying in Australia, the US, and the UK to obtain significant job experience and maybe obtain permanent residency. The procedures and conditions for obtaining a work visa after graduation vary by nation. An outline of the procedures in these three nations is provided here.
Australia Job Opportunities Following Study:
Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485): After finishing their studies, international graduates are granted a temporary right to live, study, and work in Australia.
Qualifiable Standards:
must have finished a course registered with CRICOS.
It must not be older than fifty.
possess an active student visa from the previous six months.
fulfill the standards for English language proficiency.
Character standards and health insurance.
Streams:
Work Stream for Graduates:
For graduates possessing competencies associated with a profession listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
good for a full year.
Work Stream After Study:
for individuals who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in higher education from an Australian university.
Validity varies from two to four years based on qualifications.
Procedure for Application:
Collect the following documents: diplomas, cover letters, passports, English language test scores, and information about health insurance.
Send in your application: By using the Department of Home Affairs website, you can apply online.
Wait for a Decision Once approved, you can begin employment in Australia.
Post-Study Employment Opportunities in the US:
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Under OPT, F-1 visa holders can work for a maximum of 12 months in their field of study. Additionally, STEM grads are eligible for a 24-month extension.
Qualifiable Standards:
must have finished at least one full academic year of coursework.
The position must have a direct bearing on your primary area of study.
Your employer must be registered in the E-Verify program to receive the STEM extension.
Categories:
Before Finalization of OPT:
applies to students who are still pursuing their degrees.
full-time during breaks and part-time during the school year.
Following Completion:
full-time employment following degree completion.
Valid for a year, with a potential 24-month extension for graduates in STEM fields.
Procedure for Application:
DSO Suggestion: Ask your designated school official (DSO) for a referral.
Application for Employment Authorization, Form I-765: Send this form to USCIS.
Document of Employment Authorization (EAD): After being accepted, get your EAD card and start working.
United Kingdom
Opportunities for Work After Study:
Graduate Route Visa: With this visa, international students can work or look for work in the UK for a maximum of two years following the completion of their studies (three years for doctorate graduates).
Qualifiable Standards:
must possess a successful undergraduate degree or above from a UK higher education institution with a proven track record of compliance.
need to have a current student visa when applying.
Procedure for Application:
Collect the following documents: passport, degree certificate, biometric residence permit (BRP), and confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS).
Send in your application: Use the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to submit an online application.
Biometric Data: As part of the application procedure, supply biometric data.
Wait for a Decision If granted, you will have two to three years to remain and work in the UK.
Germany Job Opportunities Following Study:
Residence Permit for Job Seekers: Following graduation, you can apply for an 18-month residence permit so that you can hunt for a position that fits your skills. You are free to work any type of job to support yourself throughout this time.
EU Blue Card: You can apply for an EU Blue Card, which is a route to permanent residency if you can obtain a job offer with a minimum wage (lower for occupations in scarcity).
Qualifiable Standards:
must possess a German higher education degree that is recognized.
possess a current residency permit to pursue your studies.
Evidence of funds for the duration of the employment search.
Procedure for Application:
Collect the following documents: proof of income, proof of health insurance, passport, and degree certificate.
Send in your application: Apply at the Ausländerbehörde, or local Foreigner’s Office, in the city where you currently reside.
Job Seeking: Make the most of the 18 months to get a job in your subject of study.
Ukraine
Opportunities for Work After Study:
Employment-Based Temporary Residency Permit: Graduates who get employment in Ukraine may apply for an employment-based temporary residency permit.
Qualifiable Standards:
must possess a degree from an accredited Ukrainian university.
possess a current study permit.
A job offer from an employer in Ukraine.
Procedure for Application:
Obtain a job offer from an employer in Ukraine.
Work Permit: On behalf of the graduate, the employer applies for a work permit.
Temporary Residence Permit: Visit your local State Migration Service office to apply for a temporary residence permit after receiving your work permit.
Netherlands Post-Study Employment Prospects: