Boost for Indian students as UK govt announces return of two-year work visa after completing graduation

In a piece of good news for many Indian students studying the UK, they can now work in the country for two years after their studies are over.

The British government has announced a new 2-year post-study work visa which is open for all international students including Indian students. The "graduate route" will be launched for 2020/21 students opting for British universities for graduate course.

British High Commissioner to India Sir Dominic Asquith said, “This is fantastic news for Indian students, who will now be able to spend more time in the UK after completing their degree, allowing them to gain further skills and experience."

By June 2019, 22 000 Indian students were studying in the UK which according to UK govt is a 42% increase year on year and almost 100% increase since June 2016.

“The new Graduate Route will mean talented international students, whether in science and maths or technology and engineering, can study in the UK and then gain valuable work experience as they go on to build successful careers," UK home secretary Priti Patel said.

UK has created a fast track visa route for scientists and removed the limit on PHD students moving to skilled work visa route, hoping to attract more skilled students from across the world.