Is applying for permanent residency (PR) after studies a viable option, and should I discuss this with my parents in UK for a Master's/PhD?

Yes, applying for permanent residency (PR) after your studies is a viable option if you want to build your career and life abroad. Many countries, including the UK, offer pathways to PR for international graduates who gain work experience after their degree.

In the UK, you can apply for a Graduate Visa after your master's, allowing you to work for up to two years (18 months for graduates from January 2027). This 2-year period applies to applications made before 1 January 2027; applications submitted on or after that date receive 18 months, while PhD graduates continue to receive 3 years. You can then switch to a Skilled Worker Visa with a qualifying job offer, and after about five years, apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is a form of PR.

It's important to discuss this with your parents, as PR involves long-term commitments, financial planning, and family considerations. Their support can help you plan your next steps and align your future goals.