UK’s international grad visa welcomed by experts

The UK government’s so-called ‘High Potential Individual’ visa is being welcomed by experts, who say it’s a chance for businesses to circumvent sponsorship licence fees and gain access to a larger pool of skilled staff. This visa was introduced to allow grads from several prominent international universities, such as Harvard and Kyoto University, to work in Britain for two to three years, depending on their degree. This initiative appeals to grads just starting out in the world of work, and aims to ensure the UK puts “ability and talent first – not where someone comes from”, according to home secretary, Priti Patel. “This government is delivering for the British people by bringing in the high skills and talent our country and businesses need,” she added.

Explainer

So, successful applicants will be granted a work visa for two years (three years for grads with a PhD), and after their visa expires, they’ll be allowed to shift into other employment routes long-term. According to employment specialist at Taylor Wessing, Charlie Pring, the visa is being championed as the current points-based system requires businesses to obtain a sponsor licence, which Pring calls a “headache.” He added: “Employers will be pleased to see a cheaper and often faster alternative visa route for some new hires, especially start-ups or SMEs that either are not yet sponsors or that can't afford the higher sponsorship fees.” This was echoed by Chetal Patel, immigration partner at Bates Wells, who said this visa route would be a “bonus” for employers as they won’t have to “go through the bureaucracy and eye watering costs of sponsorship.” Nevertheless, she cautioned: “A downside of the route is that it doesn’t lead to settlement, so we may see individuals switch into other immigration categories from inside the UK adding to further costs for their UK immigration journey.”

Other benefits

The scheme also had other advantages to employers, according to Croner managing director, Paul Holcroft, who says a larger pool of available skilled workers could alter the power dynamic of firms’ recruitment processes. “At the moment, it has been widely argued that applicants have more flexibility and ability to set demands. But, with more candidates competing for high skilled positions, employers may be back in a better position to choose from a number of talented and qualified individuals.” He went on to say: “Many of these individuals will be young and worried about leaving their hometown. As such, having an in-depth induction, support network and social activities can be a good way to assimilate them into the business.”