Post-study work visas allow graduates to extend their stay and explore work opportunities after completing their programs while living abroad. It is to be noted that the length of the post-study work period depends on the degree level, which varies for undergraduate, master, or doctorate students.
Applying for a post-study work visa requires an international student to know its eligibility criteria. Once a student meets the requirements and demands, future moves become a breeze. Below are the post-study work visa eligibility requirements for international students:
- Course Completion: As an international student, you meet the post-study work visa requirements when you hold a degree from a recognized institution within the country where you want to apply for the post-study work visa.
- Valid Student Visa Holder: You can apply for a post-study work visa if you are a valid student visa holder. You must possess a valid and active student visa throughout your foreign study course.
- Degree Level: Degree level acts as the criteria for a post-study work visa for the duration of your work period. The duration of your post-study work is longer (24 months) for higher degrees like PhDs than undergraduate or master-level programs (12 months typically).
- PSW Application Timeframe: Know that processing of post-study work visa takes time. You are required to apply for it within a specific timeframe after graduation. Make sure to apply for PSW before your student visa expires.
- English Proficiency: Language proficiency is one of the major eligibility criteria for a post-study work visa. The students applying for it are required to have English proficiency. During the visa application process, you may go through a language proficiency test.
- Immigration Checks: You must go through an immigration check system which includes providing documentation related to safety, identity, and not being involved in criminal offenses. This condition is a part of student and post-study work visa processing.
- Biometric Requirements: As part of the post-study visa permit requirements, you are required to verify biometrics by fingerprints or other related proceedings.
The criteria for PSW mentioned above discuss the most common requirements. The eligibility for PSW varies from country to country. I advise you to keep updated on the country’s specific rules for new information (if any) to go with the flow.
