Hiring international students

Our international students make up a large proportion of the student population and offer a unique set of skills and experiences. We have a range of guidance and support available to make it easier for you to hire these students and graduates.

Scotland's Migration Service

Scotland’s Migration Service provides information about visa and immigration rules relating to hiring international staff for businesses in Scotland. You can book an appointment with an immigration lawyer to get advice specific to your organisation’s needs. 

Scotland's Migration Service - Support for employers 

Student visa

The student visa has replaced the Tier 4 general visa. Visit the government website to find out more. 

UK Government - Student visa 

During study 

Students with permission to work during their studies can apply for and accept jobs in most types of paid roles however there are some restrictions on the type of work students can undertake. There are also restrictions on the number of hours students can work. Visit the UK CISA website to find out more. 

UK CISA - Student work 

UKVI requires all employers in the UK to check their employees’ right to work. Further guidance on how to carry out right to work checks be found on the government’s website. Right to work checks 

After study 

The most common way to employ recent international graduates is through a graduate visa or skilled worker visa.

Graduate visa

  • Graduates on this visa can stay in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) 
  • No costs to employers 
  • No minimum salary threshold 
  • All graduates on valid student visa are eligible upon completion of their studies 

Skilled worker visa

  • Replacement for the Tier 2 general visa 
  • Employer sponsorship is required 
  • No limit on number of visa extensions  
  • Minimum skill level of occupation is RQF level 6 

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