After working in the UK for one and a half years post-study, what are the chances of getting further job opportunities or permanent residency?
Your chances of a job offer are moderate to high if you target employers with a Home Office sponsor licence, since your 1.5 years of UK experience counts in your favor. Your ILR clock only starts once your Skilled Worker visa is granted, not during your current Graduate visa.
Your chances of both further job opportunities and eventual permanent residency depend heavily on whether your current or a new employer will sponsor you before your Graduate visa runs out. Your 1.5 years of UK work experience is a genuine advantage in the job market, but the residency clock works differently than many graduates expect.
What Your Job Offer Needs to Meet
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Licensed sponsor | The company must be an approved Home Office sponsor |
| Skill level | The role must generally meet RQF Level 6 or above |
| Salary threshold | At least £41,700 a year or the going rate for the role, though it drops to £33,400 if you qualify as a new entrant |
Your Path to Permanent Residency
Time spent on the Graduate Route visa does not count toward the 5-year continuous residence requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Your clock only starts the day your Skilled Worker visa is granted, meaning it could take roughly 6.5 to 7 years total from your graduation date to reach permanent residency once sponsorship comes through.
My Advice
Talk to your current employer's HR about sponsor status right now, since you already have a strong case as an existing employee with local experience. If they cannot sponsor you, immediately pivot your search to the official UK government register of licensed sponsors so you only apply to companies that can actually hire you.
Planning to settle in the UK after your master's?
PR pathways, timelines and which countries make it easier. Honest guidance.
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