Top 10 frequently asked questions

1. Can I work in the time remaining on my Tier 4 student visa after my course ends?

Most students can stay in the UK for around four months after their course finishes. During this period, you can work full-time in a temporary job until your student visa expires.

You can also consider making the switch into Tier 2 General visa at any time between your course ending and your visa finishing.

2. What is Tier 2 General ?

Tier 2 (General) is part of the UKBA Points Based System and is a visa for those that have a graduate level job offer from a UK company. This type of visa can lead to obtaining settlement in the UK.

3. Can I switch from a Tier 4 (Student visa)

Yes, provided you have successfully completed your course, you can apply to switch before your student visa expires.

4. Do I need to have a minimum salary?

Yes, your employer must pay you a salary that is appropriate for the job you are doing (a minimum of £20,000).

Find out more about the UKBA’s Codes of Practice for more information on graduate level jobs and appropriate salary levels.

5. Can the job offer be with any company?

The company must be registered with the UKBA (the company will be known as a ‘sponsor’) or willing to become registered.

Find list of companies in the UK registered as sponsors with UKBA 

6. Are the number of Tier 2 visas issued limited?

Yes, but if you switch from Tier 4 (student visa) you will not be subject to the limit.

7. How many points do I need for a Tier 2 visa?

You need 70 points:

  • 50 points for a job offer at the correct skill level that pays the correct salary
  • 10 points are awarded automatically when you complete your studies in the UK
  • 10 points to score for maintenance

Find out more about the UKBA points based immigration system

8. What are the maintenance requirements?

You need to show that you have had £800 available to you for 90 days – or your Tier 2 sponsor (employer) may be able to make a guarantee on your behalf.

9. Can my dependants be included on my visa?

Yes. If you have dependants included on your student visa, and switch to a Tier 2 visa, you can apply for those dependants to be included on your Tier 2 visa. You would need to show that you have had an additional £533 per dependant available to you for 90 days. This is to show that you will not claim public funds to maintain yourself or your dependants.

If your dependants were not included on your student visa, you will need further advice.

Contact TalentScotland Relocation Service for further advice on bringing dependants to Scotland.

10. Can I change my employer?

Yes, provided you get a job offer from another employer who is registered with UKBA as a company sponsor and you meet the point's requirements. You will need to make a new application if you go to work for another employer.