Obtaining a graduate visa is a significant step for many international students who wish to stay in a foreign country after completing their studies. Whether it’s for further work experience, additional studies, or simply exploring new opportunities, the graduate visa opens up a world of possibilities. However, once you’ve applied for the graduate visa, it’s natural to be eager to know its status. This article will guide you through the various methods to check the status of your graduate visa application, the information you need to have ready, and what to do if you encounter any issues during the process.
Understanding Graduate Visas
Types of Graduate Visas
Post – Study Work Visas
Many countries offer post – study work visas to international students. For example, in the United Kingdom, the Graduate Route allows international students who have completed a UK – based degree to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates). In Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) gives international students the opportunity to work in Australia for a certain period after their studies. These visas are designed to help students gain practical work experience in their field of study.
Student – to – Work Transition Visas
Some countries have visas that specifically focus on helping students transition from their student status to a working status. In Canada, the Post – Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows eligible international students to work in Canada after they graduate. The length of the work permit depends on the length of the study program. For instance, if you completed a two – year full – time study program, you may be eligible for a two – year work permit.
Graduate Entrepreneur Visas
Certain countries encourage international students with entrepreneurial ideas to stay and start their own businesses. In the United States, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) students can be extended for an additional 24 months in some cases, and there are also programs that support students interested in starting their own ventures. In the UK, the Graduate Entrepreneur Visa is aimed at students who have innovative business ideas and want to establish their own companies in the UK.
Application Process Basics
Eligibility Criteria
Each graduate visa has its own set of eligibility criteria. Generally, you need to have completed a recognized degree program at an approved educational institution in the country. For example, to be eligible for the Australian Temporary Graduate Visa, you must have completed an eligible course in Australia that meets the requirements of the Australian Qualifications Framework. You also need to meet English language requirements, which may involve providing evidence of a certain score in English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Required Documents
The application process usually requires a set of documents. This may include your passport, a copy of your degree certificate or a letter of completion from your educational institution, proof of English language proficiency, and a completed visa application form. In some cases, you may also need to provide a police clearance certificate if you have lived in the country for a certain period. For example, when applying for a post – study work visa in New Zealand, you need to provide a medical certificate if your stay in New Zealand will be longer than 12 months.
Methods to Check Graduate Visa Status
Online Application Portals
Finding the Right Portal
The first step in checking your graduate visa status is to identify the correct online application portal. Each country’s immigration department has its own dedicated website. For example, if you applied for a graduate visa in the UK, you need to visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) official website. In the case of Canada, you would use the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal. These portals are the main platforms where you can access information related to your visa application.
Registering and Logging In
Once you’ve found the correct portal, you may need to register if you haven’t already. This usually involves creating an account with a username and password. You’ll need to provide your application reference number, which is a unique identifier given to your visa application. For example, if you applied for an Australian graduate visa, your application reference number will be a combination of letters and numbers. After registering, log in using your credentials.
Checking the Status
After logging in, navigate to the section where you can view the status of your application. This is often clearly labeled as “Application Status” or “Visa Status.” The website will display the current stage of your application. It may show that your application is “Under Review,” “Approved,” or “Rejected.” In some cases, it may also provide additional details such as the date when your application was received and the estimated processing time.
Contacting the Immigration Department
Phone Numbers
Most immigration departments provide a customer service phone number that you can call to inquire about your graduate visa status. You can find this number on the official immigration website. For example, if you applied for a graduate visa in the United States, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a customer service number. Call the number and follow the automated prompts. In some cases, you may need to enter your application reference number or other identifying information using the keypad on your phone.
Email Inquiries
Many immigration departments also accept email inquiries. Look for the email address dedicated to visa application inquiries on their website. When sending an email, make sure to include your full name, application reference number, and a clear description of your question. For example, you could write, “Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to inquire about the status of my graduate visa application. My application reference number is [XXXXXX]. Please let me know the current stage of my application.” Be patient as it may take a few days for them to respond to your email.
In – Person Enquiries
In some cases, you may be able to visit the local immigration office in person to check your visa status. However, this option may not be available in all countries or may be subject to certain restrictions. For example, in some countries, you need to make an appointment in advance to visit the immigration office. When you visit, bring along your passport and any other relevant documents that can help identify your application.
Using Third – Party Agents (if applicable)
Authorized Representatives
If you used a third – party immigration agent or consultant to assist with your graduate visa application, they may be able to help you check the status. These agents are authorized to access certain information on your behalf. For example, if you hired a registered migration agent in Australia, they can log in to the relevant immigration system and check the status of your application. However, make sure that the agent you use is legitimate and registered with the appropriate regulatory body.
Communication with Agents
Maintain regular communication with your immigration agent. They should be able to provide you with updates on your visa application status. For example, they may inform you that your application has been transferred to a different processing center or that additional documents are required. Make sure to ask them about the expected time frame for the application to be processed and what the next steps are.
Information Needed to Check the Status
Application Reference Number
Location of the Reference Number
The application reference number is a crucial piece of information needed to check your graduate visa status. It is usually provided to you when you submit your visa application. For example, in the UK, the application reference number is sent to you via email after you complete the online application process. It is also printed on any correspondence you receive from the immigration department. Make sure to keep this number safe as you will need it to access information about your application.
Importance of the Reference Number
The application reference number uniquely identifies your visa application in the immigration department’s system. Without this number, it will be difficult for the immigration officers or the online system to locate your application and provide you with the status. Whether you’re using an online portal, calling the immigration department, or contacting a third – party agent, you’ll need to provide this number.
Personal Identification Information
Name and Date of Birth
Your full name as it appears on your passport and your date of birth are also important for identity verification. When you contact the immigration department or use the online portal, they may ask you to confirm your name and date of birth to ensure that they are providing information about the correct application. For example, if you call the USCIS in the United States, they will ask you to provide your name and date of birth before disclosing any information about your graduate visa application.
Passport Details
Your passport number and the country of issuance may also be required. This information helps to further verify your identity. In some cases, the immigration department may use your passport details to cross – reference with other databases. For example, when checking your visa status in New Zealand, you may need to provide your passport number as part of the identity verification process.
Common Issues and Solutions in Checking Graduate Visa Status
Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Missing Information
One common issue is providing incomplete information when trying to check your visa status. For example, if you forget to enter your application reference number correctly on the online portal, the system may not be able to retrieve your application details. Make sure to double – check all the information you provide, whether it’s on the online portal, in an email, or when speaking to an immigration officer on the phone.
Incorrect Information
Entering incorrect information can also lead to problems. If you misspell your name or provide the wrong date of birth, the immigration department may not be able to match your query with your application. If you realize you’ve provided incorrect information, contact the immigration department as soon as possible to correct it. For example, if you made a mistake in your name on the online portal, look for an option to update your personal information or contact the customer service for assistance.
Delays in Processing
Reasons for Delays
Graduate visa applications can sometimes experience delays. This could be due to various reasons such as a high volume of applications, additional security checks, or missing documents. For example, if there are changes in immigration policies, it may cause a backlog in processing applications. In some cases, if the immigration department needs to verify certain information, such as the authenticity of your degree certificate, it can also lead to delays.
What to Do During Delays
If you notice that your application is taking longer than the expected processing time, first, check the immigration department’s website for any announcements regarding processing delays. They may provide information on the average processing times and any factors that are causing the delays. You can also contact the immigration department to inquire about the status of your application and if there are any additional steps you need to take. For example, if you applied for a Canadian graduate visa and the processing time has exceeded the normal range, you can call the IRCC or send an email to ask for an update.
Discrepancies in the Application
Detecting Discrepancies
While checking the status of your graduate visa application, you may discover discrepancies. This could be something like a mismatch between the information on your application form and the supporting documents you provided. For example, if you stated your date of birth as one date on the application form but it’s different on your passport, it could be flagged as a discrepancy. Review all the information you provided in your application and compare it with the supporting documents to identify any such issues.
Resolving Discrepancies
If you find a discrepancy, contact the immigration department immediately. Explain the situation and provide any additional information or documentation to clarify the issue. For example, if there’s a name discrepancy, you may need to provide a legal document that shows the name change (such as a marriage certificate if you changed your name due to marriage). The immigration department will then review the information and determine how to proceed with your application.
Conclusion
Checking the status of your graduate visa is an important part of the visa application process. By understanding the different types of graduate visas, knowing the various methods available to check the status, having the necessary information at hand, and being aware of common issues and their solutions, you can stay informed and prepared. Whether you’re waiting for a decision on your post – study work visa, student – to – work transition visa, or graduate entrepreneur visa, using the reliable methods described in this article will help you get the most accurate and up – to – date information. Remember, if you encounter any problems or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the immigration department or your authorized representative for assistance. With the right approach, you can manage the process of checking your graduate visa status with ease and look forward to the opportunities that await you.
