SNAPSHOT UK

Visa options for work placement participants in the UK

Student Visa
Students must prove that they intend to pursue either:

• A recognised full-time degree course or
• Take a period of study and/or research in excess of six months
• A course that involves at least 15 hours of organised daytime study each week or
• A full-time course at an independent fee-paying school

Students can undertake paid work for up to 20 hours per week during term time unless their placement forms part of their studies. Unpaid internships have no limit.

Working holidaymaker visa
Allows nationals of participating Commonwealth countries aged between 17 and 30 years to come to the UK to work and holiday for up to two years. Participants may work for up to 12 months during their stay but the main purpose of the visit must be tourism. Applicants are only allowed to apply for this visa once in the UK and must prove that they can support themselves financially.

How is the work experience market in the UK evolving?

“We offer paid work and study, which is increasingly popular with markets such as the EU and Asia, as students are keen to earn money and practise their communication skills while studying English. Students often like working in cafés, as they offer good working hours, excellent training and a great social atmosphere.”
Joe Solomon, Kaplan Aspect

“Under new rules anyone doing work experience, whether paid – hospitality sector – or unpaid – professional – sectors, will need to obtain a full student visa. The student visitor visa will not suffice.”
Karen Bowring, Professionals UK

“We attract many non-EU students, especially from Brazil, Thailand and Korea. Internships in marketing, PR and media are popular.”
Tommi Muttonen, Twin Group

MINI GUIDE
WORKING IN THE USA AND CANADA

Many north american education providers offer students valuable work experience opportunities.

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