From Student To Citizen: How Indians Can Settle In The UK in 2025

Studying in the UK opens a world of opportunities for Indian students. With globally recognized universities, cultural diversity, and better career prospects, it’s no wonder that thousands of Indians choose the UK for higher education each year. But what happens after graduation? Many students wonder if they can stay in the UK permanently. If you're an Indian student in the UK and dream of settling down, this guide will walk you through the journey from student to citizen—step by step.

Start With a Student Visa (Tier 4 or Student Route)

The journey begins with a Student Visa, which allows Indian nationals to study in the UK for the duration of their course. To apply, you’ll need:

• An unconditional offer from a licensed UK university
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Financial evidence to support your stay and tuition
• A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university

This visa is usually granted for the course duration plus a short grace period to either leave the UK or switch to another visa.

Move to a Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work Visa)

Once you complete your degree, you can apply for the Graduate Visa (commonly called the Post-Study Work Visa). This visa allows you to stay in the UK for:

• 2 years (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)
• 3 years (PhD graduates)

During this period, you can:

• Work in any sector at any skill level
• Look for a job or start your own business
• Send money online to India from the UK while earning in GBP

This visa is a huge opportunity to gain work experience and build a foundation for long-term settlement.

Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa

If you land a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor migrants, you can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa. This is a key step toward settlement in the UK. To qualify:

• The job must be on the eligible occupations list
• You must earn the minimum salary requirement
• Your employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

This visa is granted for up to 5 years and is renewable. You can continue to send money to India from the UK as you build your career.

Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

After 5 continuous years in the UK on a valid work visa (or combined eligible visas), you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This means:

• You can live and work in the UK permanently
• You no longer need a visa
• You can make online money transfer to India from UK without legal residency concerns

To apply for ILR, you’ll need to:

• Pass the Life in the UK Test
• Meet English language proficiency
• Show no criminal record or immigration breaches
• Not have spent more than 180 days per year outside the UK

Finally, Apply for British Citizenship

Once you hold ILR for at least 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship. You must also:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Having lived in the UK for at least 5 years
• Continue to meet English and good character requirements

With British citizenship, you’ll enjoy:

• The right to vote
• A British passport and visa-free travel to many countries
• Full protection under UK laws and services

However, Indian citizens must renounce Indian citizenship, as India does not allow dual nationality. You can apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to retain some rights in India. Learn more about OCI eligibility here.

Timeline Overview: From Student to Citizen

Total Time to Citizenship: ~6–8 years (from student to citizen)

Why Remittances Matter Throughout the Journey?

Whether you're on a student visa or a British passport holder, staying connected to your family back home is vital. Indian expats frequently send money to India from the UK for the:

• Tuition support for siblings
• Family healthcare or living expenses
• Business investments in India
• Personal savings or property purchases

Using trusted services like ACE Money Transfer ensures:

• Fast and secure transactions
• Low transfer fees
• Transparent and competitive exchange rates
• Ease of online money transfer to India from UK 24/7

It’s the ideal way to support your loved ones while focusing on your settlement journey.

Settling in the UK as a Student!

Transitioning from a student to a citizen in the UK is a journey of ambition, patience, and planning. By understanding each visa stage—from student to graduate to skilled worker to citizen—you can take the right steps to secure your future in the UK.

And no matter where you are in your journey, ACE Money Transfer is here to help you stay connected to India through a fast, secure, and cost-effective money transfer to India from the UK. 

FAQs

Can I work on a student visa in the UK?

Yes, Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays.

Is the Graduate Visa open to all Indian students?

Yes, as long as you complete a degree at a UK institution and apply within the required timeframe.

Do I need a job offer to switch to the Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, you must have a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor.

How soon can I apply for ILR?

You can apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous legal residence in the UK under eligible visa categories.

Can I still send money to India after becoming a British citizen?

Absolutely. Whether you're on a student visa or have British citizenship, you can send money to India from UK online anytime with ACE Money Transfer.