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Study & Work in UK
Student Visa · Skilled Worker · Graduate Route · ILR
Overview
Why United Kingdom?
The UK is home to the world's oldest and most prestigious universities — Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE. After Brexit, the UK introduced a points-based immigration system that makes it easier for skilled professionals from India to work and settle. The Graduate Route visa allows 2–3 years of work without a job offer, making UK a top destination for ambitious Indians.
Aagman Overseas has successfully guided 3,200+ clients to United Kingdom and other top destinations. Our experts know every visa category, documentation requirement, and timeline. Call us for a free profile assessment today.
5 Yrs
To Indefinite Leave to Remain
£26,200
Min Salary for Work Visa
2 Yrs
Graduate Route (post-study work)
#1–10
Oxford/Cambridge World Rank
All Visa Options
United Kingdom Visa Categories
Click on any visa type below to see full details — fees, documents, step-by-step process, and expert tips from our immigration advisors.
Student Visa (Tier 4)
Duration
Course duration + 4 months
English Requirement
IELTS 5.5–6.5 (SELT accepted, UKVI version required)
Funds Required
£1,334/month living costs + full tuition (must be in bank 28 consecutive days)
Govt Visa Fee
£490 (~₹52,000)
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Get CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from UK university
- 2Apply online at UKVI portal
- 3Submit biometrics at VFS Global India
- 4Receive visa decision
💡 Expert Tip: The 28-day funds rule is strict — money must be in your account for 28 consecutive days before application date. CAS from university is mandatory, you cannot apply without it.
✅ After This Visa: Graduate Route Visa: 2 years work rights (PhD: 3 years)
Graduate Route Visa
Duration
2 years (PhD: 3 years)
English Requirement
Already proven via Student Visa
Funds Required
Must have UK degree from UKVI-approved institution
Govt Visa Fee
£715 (~₹76,000)
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Complete degree in UK from approved institution
- 2Apply before Student Visa expires
- 3No job offer required
- 4Work in any job, any sector
💡 Expert Tip: No job offer needed — work as employee or self-employed in any sector. This 2-year window is ideal to gain UK experience and find a Skilled Worker Visa sponsor.
✅ After This Visa: Pathway to Skilled Worker Visa → ILR after 5 years
Skilled Worker Visa
Duration
Up to 5 years → ILR
English Requirement
B1 English (IELTS 4.0+ or equivalent)
Funds Required
Minimum £26,200/yr salary (shortage occupations: £20,960)
Govt Visa Fee
£719–£1,420 (~₹76K–₹1.5L)
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Get job offer from UKVI-licensed sponsor employer
- 2Employer issues Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- 3Apply for Skilled Worker Visa online
- 4Enter UK and begin work
💡 Expert Tip: Check the shortage occupation list — IT, healthcare, engineering, construction roles have lower salary threshold. NHS jobs include accommodation, greatly reducing cost of living.
✅ After This Visa: ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years → Citizenship after 6 years
Family Visa (Spouse/Dependent)
Duration
2.5–5 years → ILR
English Requirement
A1 English (spouse must prove basic English)
Funds Required
Sponsor must earn £29,000+/yr (as of 2024)
Govt Visa Fee
£1,846 (~₹1,96,000)
Step-by-Step Process
- 1UK-based partner/spouse applies as sponsor
- 2Apply Family Visa online with relationship proof
- 3Submit biometrics in India
- 4Receive visa — join family in UK
💡 Expert Tip: Income threshold increased in 2024. Ensure sponsor meets £29,000 minimum. Marriage certificate + 2 years cohabitation proof needed. Aagman helps prepare strong documentation.
✅ After This Visa: ILR after 5 years living together in UK
Visitor Visa (Standard)
Duration
Up to 6 months
English Requirement
Not required
Funds Required
Bank statements + return ticket + hotel booking
Govt Visa Fee
£115 (~₹12,200)
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Apply online at UKVI portal
- 2Upload financial documents and travel itinerary
- 3Submit biometrics at VFS India
- 4Receive visa decision
💡 Expert Tip: UK Visitor Visa has higher refusal rates than other countries. Submit a detailed cover letter, hotel booking, return flight, and last 3–6 months bank statements. First-time applicants should be extra thorough.
✅ After This Visa: N/A — tourist visits only
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in UK after studies?
Yes! The Graduate Route Visa gives 2 years (PhD: 3 years) of unrestricted work rights. No job offer needed. After Graduate Route, get a Skilled Worker Visa from any licensed employer.
What is ILR and how to get it?
ILR = Indefinite Leave to Remain = UK Permanent Residency. After living in UK for 5 years continuously on Skilled Worker/Family Visa, you qualify for ILR. After ILR, British Citizenship in 1 more year.
Which sectors have most UK job opportunities for Indians?
NHS Healthcare (doctors, nurses, care workers), IT/Tech, Finance (London), Engineering, Teaching, and Hospitality. NHS direct recruits from India regularly — great route for medical professionals.
Is IELTS compulsory for UK Student Visa?
IELTS Academic (UKVI version) is required for most UK Student Visas. Some universities have their own English tests. Minimum is usually IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall. Pearson PTE (UKVI) is also accepted.
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