International students completing courses from British universities can stay back to work for as long as they wish, said Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron during his visit to India last week.
After finishing their university courses there, they are allowed to stay on and
work in the United Kingdom, provided they find a graduate-level job, Cameron said. “And again there’s no real limit on the length of time you can stay and work in the United Kingdom,” he added.
There is no bar on the number of student visas either. “So in terms of university students we have a very clear message here in India this week, which is there’s no limit on the number of Indian students that can come and study in British universities. They obviously need an English language qualification and a place, but there’s no limit on the numbers. So as many of you who can get places at our great universities are welcome to come.”
The premier also said that his country was looking at partnering India in providing higher education to 40 million new students.
“There’s also an opportunity for our universities to share expertise with your universities, and to help provide these 40 million extra university places that your government is planning.
“I think I’m right that there are 500,000 Indians under the age of 25; that one of the biggest challenges for your country is how you educate all those people. We want to be your partners as we do that. Obviously, some coming to Britain but many more studying here, but hopefully with courses that we’ve helped you to write.”