After 8 years, the UK PSW visa is expected to return in 2020!
The UK Home Office proposed on the 10th: The UK will reinstate the PSW visa, allowing international graduates to work in the UK for 2 years.
This new policy applies to students starting undergraduate or higher degrees from 2020. Additionally, these students must study at institutions with a good track record of immigration compliance.
This change would overturn the decision made in 2012 by then-Home Secretary Theresa May, who abolished what she considered as an "overly generous" PSW visa, requiring students to leave the UK four months after completing their studies.
Major news outlets including The Guardian, BBC, and The Pie News have covered the story, though no official government document has been released yet.
Nevertheless, compared to previous rumors about the PSW visa being restored, this news is considerably more credible, but the exact outcome remains to be seen.
UK Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "International students have a significant cultural and economic impact on our country. Their presence benefits the UK, which is why we are extending the time they can stay in the UK after graduation."
He also added: "Our universities are evolving into open international institutions. Introducing the graduate route will ensure our prestigious higher education sector continues to attract top talent from around the world to the UK."
The government's proposal coincides with the launch of the UK Biobank's £200 million genetic project. Current Prime Minister Boris Johnson also stated: "Such projects would not be possible without opening the door for the brightest and best from around the globe to study and work in the UK."
Universities UK, which represents 130 institutions, expressed enthusiastic support for the proposal. Chief Executive Alistair Jarvis said: "For too long, the lack of post-study work opportunities has put the UK at a disadvantage in attracting international students."
Last year, around 450,000 international students studied in the UK, excluding those from within the EU. International students have become an important source of revenue.
According to official statistics, the number of Chinese students applying to UK universities has increased by 30% since last year, surpassing Northern Irish students for the first time.
A report released earlier this year also found that international students who attend university in the UK earn up to 50% more than their British counterparts.
The restoration of the PSW visa will undoubtedly significantly boost the UK's appeal to some international students. However, with the number of students coming to the UK already hitting record highs, the 2020 application season is bound to become even more competitive.
