Your content is heavily outdated.

• Tier 4 is no longer used.
• Tier 1 and Tier 2 categories no longer exist in that format.
• Minimum wage figures are incorrect.
• The NI application phone process has changed.
• Post-study options are completely different now.

Below is the fully updated 2026-compliant version, rewritten professionally and accurately.

Working in the UK During and After Studies (Student Visa Guide – 2026)

International students studying in the UK under the Student visa route are permitted to work, subject to the visa conditions set by
UK Visas and Immigration.

Part-Time Work During Studies

If you are studying at a recognised Higher Education Provider and enrolled on a full-time course at degree level or above, you are normally allowed:

• Up to 20 hours per week during term time
• Full-time work during official university vacations

Students enrolled below degree level are usually limited to 10 hours per week during term time.

⚠️ Always check your visa vignette or eVisa conditions, as work rights are clearly stated there.

National Insurance (NI) Number

To work in the UK, you will need a National Insurance (NI) number.

• You can start working without an NI number.
• However, you must apply for one after securing employment.
• Applications are now made online via the official GOV.UK website (the old phone appointment system is no longer standard practice).

An NI number is used to record tax and National Insurance contributions.

Minimum Wage in the UK (2026 Update)

As of current government rates (subject to annual revision):

• Age 21 and over: National Living Wage applies
• Age 18–20: Lower minimum wage rate applies
• Under 18: Youth rate applies

⚠️ Minimum wage figures are updated every April. Students must check the official GOV.UK website for the latest rates.

Finding Part-Time Jobs

Students can find employment through:

• University career services
• Campus job boards
• Retail and hospitality sectors
• Online job portals

London and other major cities offer a wide range of part-time opportunities, but living costs are also higher.

Working After Graduation

Non-UK students wishing to remain in the UK after graduation must switch to an appropriate work visa.

The previous Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa categories have been replaced.

1️⃣ Graduate Route (Most Popular Option)

The UK Government introduced the Graduate Route in 2021.

This visa allows international students to:

• Stay in the UK for 2 years after completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
• Stay for 3 years after completing a PhD
• Work at any skill level
• Switch to a Skilled Worker visa later

No job offer is required to apply.

This route does not lead directly to settlement, but time spent under Skilled Worker can count.

2️⃣ Skilled Worker Visa (Replaced Tier 2 General)

The Skilled Worker visa replaced the old Tier 2 (General) visa.

Requirements include:

• Job offer from a licensed sponsor
• Role at required skill level
• Meeting minimum salary threshold (subject to updates)

This route can lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years.

3️⃣ Innovator Founder Visa (Replaced Tier 1 Entrepreneur)

For graduates who wish to start a business:

• Requires endorsement from an approved body
• No fixed £200,000 requirement anymore (rules changed)
• Must demonstrate innovation, viability, and scalability

4️⃣ High-Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

Available to graduates from eligible top global universities.

• Does not require a job offer
• Valid for 2–3 years depending on qualification

5️⃣ Youth Mobility Scheme

Available only to eligible nationalities (India has limited ballot-based access under specific conditions).

• Valid for 2 years
• Does not lead to settlement

Important Reminders

• Students cannot be self-employed under the Student visa (with limited exceptions).
• Working more than permitted hours can result in visa cancellation.
• Dependants (if eligible) may have different work rights.

UK immigration rules, salary thresholds, and visa categories are subject to change without prior notice. Students should always refer to the latest official guidance issued by UK Visas and Immigration on the GOV.UK website.

For personalised guidance and continuous support throughout your UK study and career journey, connect with AOCG to ensure your documentation and visa pathway remain accurate and fully compliant with current immigration regulations.