Are you wondering how to get PR in the UK after study?
Everyone who flies to the UK for studies has a dream of living their life there. But getting the Permanent Residency (PR) is a daunting task for them. You need to understand the basic principles of attaining it before applying for PR in the UK.
For an international student, especially from India, who is planning to build your future in the UK, understanding the UK PR eligibility criteria, application process, and rules is essential. This step-by-step 2025 guide will walk you through everything – from switching from a student visa to a work visa in the UK to applying for PR.
What is Permanent Residency (PR) in the UK?
PR, or Permanent Residency, officially known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), is a status granted to foreign nationals who have lived and worked in the UK for a specified period and meet the eligibility requirements.
With PR (ILR), you can:
- Live and work in the UK without time restrictions.
- Access public funds and healthcare through the NHS.
- After holding PR for 12 months, apply for British citizenship.
Difference between permanent residence in the UK and British citizenship at a glance:
| Feature | Permanent Residence (ILR) | British Citizenship |
| Status | The right to live in the UK without time restrictions. | Full legal recognition as a national of the UK. |
| Risk of Loss | Can be lost if you leave the UK for more than two consecutive years. | Lasts for life and can only be taken away under very rare circumstances. |
| UK Passport | Cannot apply for a UK passport. | Can apply for a British passport. |
| Voting Rights | Limited or no voting rights in UK parliamentary elections. | Has full voting rights and can stand for office. |
| Children’s Status | Children do not automatically become citizens. | Children born to you (in or outside the UK) automatically become citizens. |
| Travel | Must be careful about the length of time spent outside the UK. | No restrictions on how long you can travel outside the UK. |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get PR in the UK After Studying in 2025
How do I get Permanent Residency (PR) in the UK? The process is not as complicated as it sounds, but it does require planning, patience, and the right visa steps.
1. Complete Your Degree in the UK
The very first step is finishing your course at a recognized UK university. You cannot apply for PR immediately after graduation; you will need some work experience in the UK first.
After Bachelor’s or Master’s: You will start the process after gaining employment post-study.
After PhD: As PhD graduates are often in demand for skilled roles you might have a quicker route because.
2. Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (Graduate Route)
Once you have graduated, the next step is to get a Graduate Route Visa, commonly known as a post-study work visa.
Duration:
Master’s and Bachelor’s graduates – 2 years
PhD graduates – 3 years
This visa gives you the freedom to work in the UK, look for jobs, or even start your career before moving to a Skilled Worker Visa, which is essential for PR.
3. Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa
The real journey toward PR begins when you switch from a student visa to a Skilled Worker Visa.
What do you need for a Skilled Worker Visa?
✔ A job offer from a UK-based employer who is on the official sponsor list.
✔ Meet the minimum salary threshold set by UK immigration rules.
✔ Prove English language proficiency.
4. Work in the UK & Meet Residency Requirement
The minimum residency requirement for PR applications is to live and work in the UK for at least 5 years once you are on a Skilled Worker Visa.
Avoid long absences and must maintain continuous residence
Keep all your documents safe, such as pay slips, P60s, and employment letters.
5. Check UK PR Eligibility Criteria
✔ Work experience: Minimum 5 years in the UK on a valid work visa.
✔ English language: Proof of proficiency.
✔ No major immigration breaches.
✔ Life in the UK Test: A must-pass requirement to prove you know about British culture, laws, and values.
6. Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After completing the residency period and meeting the criteria, you can apply for ILR, which gives you PR status.
Application details:
How to apply: Submit your application online through the official UK Government website.
Processing time: Around 6 months.
Fees: Vary depending on your visa category.
7. Include Dependents (If Applicable)
You can include your spouse or children in your application, but make sure they meet the UK dependent visa rules for PR.
How the UK PR Points System Operates in 2025
Your eligibility is frequently evaluated using a points-based system when you apply for permanent residence in the UK. This indicates that specific elements are important in your application. What typically matters is as follows:
- Education Level: A Master’s or PhD can help you stand out from the crowd.
- Job Skill Level: Points are awarded for skilled positions in industries with high demand.
- Salary Offered: Your chances improve with a higher salary.
- English Proficiency: Any PR pathway requires the demonstration of strong English language abilities.
- UK Work Experience: It is more beneficial if you have worked in the UK for a longer period of time while holding a valid visa.
Useful Advice to Increase Your Prospects
- Organize your papers, keep your tax records, employment offers, passports, and visas up to date.
- Make sure you fulfill the minimum continuous residency requirement.
- Strictly adhere to the visa requirements.
- Any violations may cause your PR application to be delayed or even denied.
We at Cliftons help you realize your goal of moving to the UK after completing your studies. We help you at every stage, from choosing the best UK universities to providing career support, visa advice, and PR pathways.
Make your UK dream a reality by beginning your journey with us right now!
FAQs
- How long does it take to get PR in the UK after studying?
Typically, it takes 5 years of continuous work in the UK after switching to a Skilled Worker Visa. For most graduates, the total timeline from study to PR is around 7 years (including your study period and post-study work visa). - Can I apply for PR immediately after my degree?
No. You cannot apply for PR right after graduation. You need to gain work experience in the UK, usually by switching from a Graduate Route Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, and then fulfill the 5-year residency requirement. - Does having a master’s or PhD make PR easier?
Yes. A master’s degree can help you find better job opportunities that meet Skilled Worker Visa requirements, while PhD graduates often qualify faster because their roles are in high demand. - What is the minimum salary requirement for a Skilled Worker Visa?
The minimum salary threshold changes periodically, but as of 2025, it generally needs to be £41,700 per year (or less for shortage occupation roles). - Can I include my family in my PR application?
Yes. You can include dependents like your spouse or children in your PR application, provided they meet UK dependent visa rules and have maintained a lawful stay in the country.
