Does PSW Count Towards ILR? A Simple Guide for International Students

For many international students in the UK, the ultimate goal after graduation is to settle permanently. Two common immigration terms often come up in this journey: PSW (Post-Study Work visa) and ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
A very common question students ask is:

“Does time spent on a PSW visa count towards ILR?”

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Is PSW (Post-Study Work Visa)?

The Post-Study Work visa, officially known as the Graduate Route, allows international students to stay in the UK after completing their degree.

• Duration:
  • 2 years for undergraduate and master’s graduates
  • 3 years for PhD graduates
• No sponsorship required
• You can work full-time at any skill level
• You cannot extend this visa

PSW is designed to give students work experience, not permanent settlement.

What Is ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)?

ILR is permanent residency in the UK. Once you get ILR, you can:

• Live and work in the UK without visa restrictions
• Access public benefits (subject to conditions)
• Apply for British citizenship after 12 months

ILR usually requires 5 or 10 years of continuous lawful residence, depending on the visa route.

Does PSW Count Towards ILR?

❌ Short Answer: No

Time spent on a PSW / Graduate Route visa does NOT count directly towards the 5-year ILR route.

This means:

• You cannot combine PSW years with Skilled Worker visa years to reach 5 years
• Your ILR clock resets when you switch from PSW to a settlement-eligible visa

Then Is PSW Useless for ILR?

Absolutely not. PSW plays an indirect but important role in your settlement journey.

How PSW Helps Students Move Towards ILR

1. Gain UK Work Experience
   PSW allows you to work full-time and build experience that helps you secure a sponsored job.
2. Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa
   Once you find an employer willing to sponsor you, you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa, which does count towards ILR.
3. Long-Residence Route (10 Years)
   Time spent on PSW does count under the 10-year long residence route, which includes most legal visas (student, PSW, work visas).

Visa Routes That Count Towards ILR

To qualify for ILR (5-year route), you usually need time on visas such as:

• Skilled Worker visa
• Health and Care Worker visa
• Global Talent visa
• Innovator Founder visa

PSW is not on this list, but it can help you transition to one of them.

A Typical Student to ILR Pathway

Here’s a common route many students follow:

1. Student Visa – Study in the UK
2. PSW Visa – Gain work experience (2–3 years)
3. Skilled Worker Visa – Sponsored employment (5 years)
4. ILR – Permanent settlement
5. British Citizenship (optional)

Key Things Students Should Remember

• PSW does not lead directly to ILR
• Use PSW time wisely to secure sponsorship
• Plan early and understand visa timelines
• Keep records of continuous lawful residence

Final Thoughts

While PSW does not count directly towards ILR, it is still a valuable stepping stone for international students. It gives you time, experience, and opportunity to move onto a visa that leads to settlement.

If your long-term goal is ILR or British citizenship, smart planning during your PSW period can make all the difference.