Are there formalities or paperwork required to join the UK team for study and PR?
Yes, distinct formalities apply at each stage. Your Student Visa needs a CAS, proof of funds and an English test, the Graduate Route needs your degree confirmation, and Indefinite Leave to Remain later needs five years of continuous residence on a work visa plus the Life in the UK test.
If you are planning to move to the UK for study and eventually pursue permanent residency, you will work through distinct paperwork at each stage. Your path runs from a student visa through a graduate work visa and finally toward Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Paperwork Required at Each Stage
| Stage | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | CAS, valid passport, proof of financial support, English test, healthcare surcharge and biometrics |
| Graduate Route | Current student visa details and confirmation of degree completion |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain | Five years continuous residence, sponsoring employer salary threshold, Life in the UK test, English proficiency |
Why the Graduate Route Alone Is Not Enough
After you graduate, the Graduate Route lets you work for up to 2 years, or 3 years if you completed a PhD, but this time generally does not count toward the five year residency requirement for ILR. You typically need to move onto a sponsored work visa, such as a Skilled Worker Visa, before your years start counting toward permanent residency.
My Advice
Plan your transition from the Graduate Route to a sponsored work visa well before your work permit expires, and start gathering documents like tax records, employer letters and proof of continuous residence early, since ILR applications require a thorough paper trail.
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