What is the best and fastest option for settling abroad after studies in UK/Ireland?
The fastest and most straightforward option for settling abroad after studies depends on your destination country, field of study, and long-term career plans. Here’s a quick overview of typical PR (permanent residency) pathways and timelines in top study-abroad countries:
- Canada: Often the fastest, with PR possible in 12 - 24 months after gaining one year of skilled work experience on a post-study work permit.
- Germany: PR in as little as 21 months if you reach B1-level German and secure a skilled job.
- Australia: PR typically takes 3 - 5 years via skilled migration routes after post-study work.
- UK: PR through the Skilled Worker visa after 5 years of qualifying work (post-study work visa leads to this).
- New Zealand: PR possible in 2 - 3 years for high-demand occupations.
- Ireland: PR (Stamp 4) in about 2 years after a Critical Skills Employment Permit.
Your field of study, language skills, and willingness to work in regional areas can speed up the process in some countries. Immigration policies are subject to change.
If you need help choosing the best pathway for your profile, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
More expert answers
You have good options to stay and work in both the UK and Ireland after your master’s degree, with potential pathways to permanent residency.
UK:
- Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work Visa): Stay and work for up to 2 years after your master’s. Any job, no sponsorship needed. Time on this visa does not count towards permanent residency.
- Skilled Worker Visa: If you get a qualifying job, you can switch to this visa. It can lead to permanent residency after 5 years. Your 6 years of work experience may help you meet job and salary requirements.
Ireland:
- Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G): Stay and work for up to 2 years after your master’s without a work permit.
- Critical Skills Employment Permit: With a high-demand job offer, you can move to this permit, which can lead to permanent residency. Your work experience strengthens your eligibility.
Visa policies and requirements are subject to change. For tailored guidance on your next steps, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
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