Will I get a post-study work permit for three years after my STEM-based master's program in UK/USA?
21 Jul 2026 · Answered by Mona Negi · 1 min read
No, you will not get a three-year post-study work permit in all countries after a STEM-based master's.
- USA: Up to 3 years post-study work (12 months OPT + 24 months STEM OPT extension), if your employer is E-Verify registered.
- UK: 2 years post-study work for master's graduates if you apply by December 31, 2026; this reduces to 18 months from January 1, 2027. The UK does not offer a three-year post-study work visa for master's graduates, even in STEM fields.
- Netherlands: 1 year search year ("Zoekjaar") permit to find work related to your field.
Work permit durations and rules are subject to change.
How long can you stay and work after a UK master's?
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