Can I switch from a student visa to a work visa after completing my masters degree?

Question

Harshal G · Accepted Answer

You certainly can switch from a student visa to a work visa after completing your Master&rsquo;s degree. However, the process will vary depending on the country in which you studied. 
In the USA, for instance, students often transition from an F-1 visa to a work visa like the H-1B. 
After graduation, you can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) which will allow you to work in your field of study for up to 12 months. If you&rsquo;re a STEM graduate, expect an additional 24 months.
During this period, you can find an employer who might sponsor your H-1B visa to continue working in the country.
It's important to plan early, as the H-1B visa has a cap and is subject to a lottery system. Consulting with a career advisor at your university and possibly a legal expert on immigration laws will be crucial to navigating this transition smoothly.

Preeti Singh · Answer

Absolutely! Most students switch from a student visa to a work visa after completing their master's degree abroad. You can too! 
For example: In the USA, you can transition from an F-1 visa to an H-1B visa, provided you find a company to sponsor you. 
In Canada, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work for any employer and doesn't require a job offer at the time of application. 
In Australia, holders of a student visa can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which permits work and study for 18 months to 4 years, depending on your qualifications. 
Similarly, in the UK, the Graduate Route visa is available to international students who have completed a degree, allowing them to stay for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) to work or look for work. 
Each country's specific requirements and durations vary, so it's essential to plan early and understand the local immigration policies.
To know more post study work visa USA requirements, visit here

Prateeksha Manral · Answer

Absolutely, you can switch from a student visa to a work visa after completing your master's degree, but the specific steps and requirements will depend on the country you're studying in. Here&rsquo;s a general guide to consider:
Check Visa Requirements: Before your student visa expires, you'll need to apply for a work visa. Each country has different rules and timelines for this transition. For instance, in the U.S., you might apply for an H-1B visa, which allows you to work in fields related to your study.
Find a Job: Typically, to qualify for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a company willing to sponsor your visa application. It&rsquo;s important to start your job hunt early, as the process can be competitive.
Apply Early: Some countries have caps on the number of work visas issued each year. In the U.S., the H-1B visa has an annual cap, and applications are often submitted right when the window opens due to high demand.
Documentation: Gather all required documents for the work visa application. This usually includes proof of employment, evidence of your qualifications, and sometimes a proof of return to your home country if the visa is not extended.
Legal Guidance: Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer. They can offer personalized advice and help streamline your application process.
If you&rsquo;re planning this switch, it's a good strategy to discuss your intentions with your university&rsquo;s career services or international students' office. They often provide additional resources and guidance based on your specific situation. 
Remember, timely action is key here to avoid any gap between your student status expiring and your work status legally beginning.

Can I switch from a student visa to a work visa after completing my master's degree?