Building Careers in the UK: Explore Employment Prospects for Pakistani Students

Pakistani students studying in the UK have many work opportunities during and after their studies. These jobs help them gain experience and support themselves financially. Here’s a simpler breakdown of the work options:

Work During Studies:

Part-Time Work:

• During the School Year: Pakistani students, like other international students, can work up to 20 hours a week while classes are in session. This helps them gain valuable skills and cover some living costs.
• During Holidays: When universities are on break, like during the summer, Christmas, or Easter holidays, students can work up to 40 hours a week.

Types of Jobs:

• On-Campus Jobs: Students can often find part-time work within the university, like in the library, cafeteria, office jobs, or student union.
• Off-Campus Jobs: Many students work in places like shops, restaurants, or as teaching and research assistants, depending on their skills.
• Internships: Paid internships during school breaks are a great way to get experience in a specific industry, which can help with future job opportunities.

Minimum Wage: The UK has a minimum wage law, and how much you get paid depends on your age. For students aged 23 and older, the minimum wage is currently Starting from ￡10 to ￡15 per hour (as of 2024).

Restrictions:

• Students cannot be self-employed, work as a professional athlete or entertainer, or have a permanent full-time job during their studies.
• A valid Student Visa is required to work as an international student.

Work After Graduation:

Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa):

The Graduate Route Visa allows international students to stay in the UK for up to 2 years after finishing their degree (3 years for PhD students). With this visa, you’re free to look for a job, gain work experience, or even start your own business without needing a specific employer.

• Eligibility: You must have completed a degree at a UK university and hold a valid Tier 4 or Student Visa.

Tier 2 (Skilled Worker Visa):

After the Graduate Route Visa, Pakistani graduates can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2) if they get a job offer from a UK company that has a sponsorship license. The job must meet a certain skill level, and the salary usually needs to be at least ￡26,200, though this can change depending on the job.

• Duration: The Tier 2 visa can lead to permanent residency if you work for five continuous years.

Tier 1 (Innovator Visa):

Pakistani graduates with a solid business idea can apply for a Tier 1 Innovator Visa, which is aimed at people looking to start their own business in the UK. To apply, you need to meet certain business and investment requirements.

Shortage Occupation List:

Students with skills in areas that are in high demand in the UK, such as healthcare, engineering, or IT, may find it easier to get jobs. It can also make applying for a Skilled Worker Visa easier, as these jobs sometimes have lower salary requirements.

Additional Pathways and Benefits:

Permanent Residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR):

After working in the UK for five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is a step toward becoming a British citizen.

Work Opportunities in Popular Sectors:

The UK has many strong industries, including finance, healthcare, IT, engineering, law, education, and the arts. Many Pakistani students find jobs in these fields after graduation, as companies often look for international graduates.

Conclusion:

The UK provides Pakistani students with excellent work opportunities both during and after their studies. With flexible work hours while studying, the Graduate Route Visa, and various work visas available, students can gain valuable international experience and even build long-term careers in the UK. At EdMine, we offer a range of services to guide you through every step of your journey.

Our key services include:

• Personalized Counselling
• Test Preparation for IELTS, TOEFL, and other exams
• Admission Assistance to UK universities
• Pre & Post-Study Visa Guidance
• Scholarship Assistance

Let us help you achieve your educational and career goals in the UK!