Post-Study Work Visa Opportunities for International Students in 2024
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, many students are looking to leverage their international education by gaining work experience in the host country post-graduation. A post-study work visa allows international students to remain in their host country to work after completing their degree. In 2024, several countries have updated their policies to make it easier for international graduates to stay and work. Here, we explore the post-study work visa opportunities in popular study destinations: the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
United States: Optional Practical Training (OPT)
The United States offers the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, allowing international students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months. STEM graduates can extend this period by an additional 24 months under the STEM OPT extension. To qualify, students must have completed at least one academic year on an F-1 visa.
For more details on OPT, visit the official USCIS website.
United Kingdom: Graduate Route Visa
The United Kingdom recently introduced the Graduate Route Visa, allowing international students to stay and work, or look for work, for up to two years after completing their degree. Ph.D. graduates can stay for up to three years. This visa is available to anyone who has completed a degree at a UK higher education provider.
More information is available on the official UK Government website.
Canada: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Canada offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which enables students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) to work in Canada for up to three years. The length of the work permit depends on the length of the study program completed.
For official details, refer to the Government of Canada website.
Australia: Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Australia provides the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), allowing international students to work in Australia temporarily after finishing their studies. There are two streams: the Graduate Work Stream, for those with skills related to an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, and the Post-Study Work Stream, for those who have recently graduated with a degree from an Australian institution. The visa length varies from 18 months to up to four years, depending on qualifications.
Read more on the official Australian Government website.
Conclusion
Post-study work visas can provide a valuable opportunity for international students to gain relevant work experience and enhance their career prospects. Each country offers different routes and eligibility criteria, so it is essential to stay informed and plan accordingly. Always check the most up-to-date information from official government sources, as policies can change.
For more detailed guidance on studying and working abroad, keep visiting our blog at International Student Info.