Work-Study in UK: 5 Types of Visa to Apply For Anywhere in the World, Studying in the United Kingdom offers numerous opportunities for international students, and one of the key aspects to consider is the ability to work while studying.
The UK provides various visa options that allow students to pursue part-time employment alongside their studies.
In this article, we will explore five types of visas that enable individuals from anywhere in the world to work and study in the UK.
Work-Study in UK: 5 Types of Visa to Apply For Anywhere in the World
Each visa has its own specific criteria and application process. So, let’s dive in and learn more!
- Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
The Tier 4 (General) Student Visa is the most common visa option for international students pursuing a degree in the UK. This visa allows students to study full-time at a recognized institution and work part-time during term-time and full-time during holidays. The eligibility criteria for this visa include having an offer from a licensed educational institution, sufficient funds to support yourself, and meeting the English language proficiency requirements.
1.1 Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, you must have a confirmed offer from a licensed UK educational institution, demonstrate proficiency in the English language, and show that you have enough funds to cover your course fees and living expenses.
1.2 Application Process
The application process for the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa involves submitting an online application, providing the necessary documents, paying the application fee, and attending a biometric appointment. It is essential to carefully follow the instructions provided by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to ensure a smooth application process.
1.3 Work Permissions
Under the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays. This provides an excellent opportunity for students to gain practical work experience and supplement their finances while studying in the UK.
- Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa
The Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa is designed for children between the ages of 4 and 17 who wish to study at an independent UK school. This visa allows them to study and work part-time during their studies.
2.1 Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa, the child must have a confirmed offer from an independent UK school and show that they have suitable arrangements for their care and accommodation while in the UK.
2.2 Application Process
The application process for the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa involves submitting an online application, providing the necessary documents, paying the application fee, and attending a biometric appointment. Parental consent is also required for this visa category.
2.3 Work Permissions
Similar to the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa allows students to work part-time during their studies. They can work up to 10 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays.
- Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa
The Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa is suitable for individuals who wish to undertake temporary employment in the UK, including internships, work experience, and training programs. This visa category offers different subcategories, such as Tier 5 (Government Authorized Exchange) and Tier 5 (Charity Worker).
3.1 Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa vary depending on the specific subcategory. Generally, applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer, a certificate of sponsorship, and sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
3.2 Application Process
The application process for the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa involves submitting an online application, providing the necessary documents, paying the application fee, and attending a biometric appointment. It is important to note that some subcategories may have additional requirements.
3.3 Work Permissions
Under the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa, individuals can work in the specific role and for the specific employer mentioned in their certificate of sponsorship. The work permissions may vary depending on the subcategory, so it is crucial to review the conditions associated with each subcategory.
- Tier 2 (General) Work Visa
The Tier 2 (General) Work Visa is designed for skilled workers who have a job offer from a UK employer. This visa allows individuals to work in the UK for a specified period and provides a pathway to settlement.
4.1 Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Tier 2 (General) Work Visa, applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor license. They must also meet the specific skill and salary requirements for the role.
4.2 Application Process
The application process for the Tier 2 (General) Work Visa involves a sponsorship from the employer, submitting an online application, providing the necessary documents, paying the application fee, and attending a biometric appointment.
4.3 Work Permissions
Under the Tier 2 (General) Work Visa, individuals can work for their sponsoring employer in the specific role mentioned in their certificate of sponsorship. This visa category offers a pathway to settlement, enabling individuals to stay in the UK for an extended period and potentially apply for permanent residency.
- Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa
The Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa is designed for international graduates who have developed a viable and innovative business idea in the UK. This visa allows individuals to stay in the UK to establish their businesses and work on their development.
5.1 Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa, applicants must have completed a degree in the UK, have an endorsement from an authorized endorsing body, and meet the English language proficiency requirements.
5.2 Application Process
The application process for the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa involves obtaining an endorsement from an authorized endorsing body, submitting an online application, providing the necessary documents, paying the application fee, and attending a biometric appointment.
It is important to note that the number of endorsements available for this visa category is limited, so it is crucial to start the application process as early as possible.
5.3 Work Permissions
Under the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa, individuals are not limited to working for a specific employer. Instead, they have the opportunity to establish and develop their own business in the UK. This visa category provides the freedom and flexibility to work on their entrepreneurial endeavors and contribute to the UK’s business landscape.
In conclusion, the UK offers a range of visa options that allow individuals from anywhere in the world to work and study in the country.
The Tier 4 (General) Student Visa and the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa cater to students who wish to pursue their education while having the opportunity to work part-time.
The Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa provides temporary employment opportunities, while the Tier 2 (General) Work Visa offers a pathway to long-term employment and potential settlement.
Lastly, the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa encourages international graduates to establish their own businesses in the UK.
Each visa category has its own specific criteria and application process, so it is essential to carefully review the requirements and seek guidance if needed.
FAQs
- Can I work full-time on Tier 4 (General) Student Visa?
- Yes, you can work full-time during holidays and term breaks, but during term time, you are limited to 20 hours per week.
- What is the maximum duration of a Tier 2 (General) Work Visa?
- The Tier 2 (General) Work Visa can be granted for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extending it thereafter.
- Are there any restrictions on the type of work I can do under the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa?
- The work you can do under the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa is limited to the specific role and employer mentioned in your certificate of sponsorship.
- How long can I stay in the UK under the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa?
- The Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa allows you to stay in the UK for an initial period of 1 year, with the possibility of extending it for an additional year.
- Can I switch from one visa category to another while studying in the UK?
- In some cases, it is possible to switch between visa categories while studying in the UK. However, it is important to consult with the appropriate immigration authorities to understand the specific requirements and limitations.