UK: Guidelines and Requirements for Recent Graduates and Students

As of January 2021, EU citizens are no longer eligible to work in the UK without a visa or work permit. Therefore, the requirements to do an internship in the UK as an EU citizen will depend on the type of visa or permit you have.

If you are an EU citizen and you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can work and do an internship in the UK without needing a visa until the end of the grace period on June 30, 2021. If you don’t have settled or pre-settled status, you will need to apply for a visa or permit to work or do an internship in the UK. The specific visa or permit required will depend on the nature and duration of your internship, as well as your personal circumstances.

In general, you may be eligible for a Tier 5 (Temporary Worker – Government Authorized Exchange) visa, which is designed for individuals who want to come to the UK for a short-term work or study experience, including internships. To be eligible for this visa, you will need to have a valid certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor and meet other requirements, such as English language proficiency and financial maintenance.

It’s important to note that visa requirements and eligibility criteria can change frequently, so it’s important to check with the UK government’s immigration website or consult with an immigration lawyer for the most up-to-date information.

Non-EU citizens who wish to pursue an internship in the UK are required to obtain a visa. The specific visa type required will depend on the nature and duration of the internship, as well as the individual’s personal circumstances.

In general, non-EU citizens may be eligible for a Tier 5 (Temporary Worker – Government Authorized Exchange) visa, which is designed for individuals who want to come to the UK for a short-term work or study experience, including internships. To be eligible for this visa, the applicant will need to have a valid certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor, demonstrate English language proficiency, and meet financial maintenance requirements.

It’s important to note that visa requirements and eligibility criteria can change frequently, so it’s important to check with the UK government’s immigration website or consult with an immigration lawyer for the most up-to-date information.

Internships in the UK can be either paid or unpaid, depending on the company or organization offering the internship and the nature of the work involved.

In general, if the internship involves productive work, the intern should be paid at least the National Minimum Wage. However, if the internship is primarily for the benefit of the intern’s education or training and doesn’t involve productive work, it may be considered a “voluntary” internship and therefore unpaid.

It’s important for prospective interns to clarify with the company or organization offering the internship whether it is paid or unpaid, and if paid, what the salary and benefits package will be. Additionally, interns should ensure that the terms of the internship are clearly defined in a written agreement or contract before starting work.

The specific documents required to apply for an internship in the UK can vary depending on the company or organization offering the internship, as well as your personal circumstances. However, some common documents that may be required include:

1. A CV or resume: This should outline your educational background, work experience, and any relevant skills or qualifications.

2. A cover letter: This should introduce yourself, explain your interest in the internship, and highlight any relevant experience or skills that make you a good fit.

3. Academic transcripts: These provide a record of your academic performance and may be required to demonstrate your eligibility for the internship.

4. Work samples: Depending on the nature of the internship, you may need to provide examples of previous work or projects you have completed.

5. References: These should be individuals who can vouch for your character, work ethic, and qualifications.

6. Proof of eligibility to work in the UK: If you are not a UK citizen or resident, you may need to provide documentation demonstrating your eligibility to work in the country.

It’s important to carefully review the internship listing or application instructions to determine which specific documents are required and ensure that you provide them in a timely and organized manner.

The processing time for an internship application in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the organization or company you are applying to, the type of internship, and the demand for the position. In general, it can take several weeks to a few months to process an internship application in the UK. It’s important to apply early and follow up with the organization or company to ensure your application is being processed in a timely manner.

The possibility of extending your internship in the UK will depend on various factors, such as the type of visa or permit you have, the terms of your internship agreement, and the policies of your employer.

If you have a Tier 5 (Temporary Worker – Government Authorized Exchange) visa, which is commonly used for short-term work or study experiences like internships, you may be able to extend your stay in the UK for up to two years. However, you will need to meet certain requirements and apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

It’s important to note that extending your internship may also require approval from your employer and any relevant sponsoring organizations or institutions. You should also check the terms of your internship agreement to ensure that an extension is feasible and permitted.

If you have any questions or concerns about extending your internship in the UK, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the UK government’s immigration website for guidance.

The duration of an internship in the UK can vary depending on the industry, employer, and the nature of the internship. Generally, internships can last anywhere from a few weeks to up to 12 months. Some internships may be part-time, while others may be full-time. It’s important to note that some industries or employers may have specific guidelines or regulations regarding the duration of internships. It’s always a good idea to clarify the expected length of an internship with the employer or program coordinator before accepting an offer.

During a UK internship, you can expect to gain valuable experience in your desired field, work on projects or assignments, and receive mentorship and guidance from professionals in your industry. The exact expectations can vary depending on the industry and employer, but here are some general things you can expect:

1. Orientation: Many internships will start with an orientation session to help you get familiar with the company, the culture, and your specific role and responsibilities.

2. Hands-on experience: You will likely be given specific tasks or projects to work on during your internship. This will allow you to gain practical experience in your field and develop new skills.

3. Mentorship: You may be paired with a mentor or supervisor who will guide you through your internship and provide feedback on your work.

4. Networking opportunities: You may have the opportunity to attend networking events or meet other professionals in your industry. This can be a great way to make connections and learn about potential career paths.

5. Professional development: Some internships may offer training or professional development opportunities, such as workshops or seminars, to help you improve your skills and knowledge.

Overall, you should expect to learn and grow during your UK internship, both professionally and personally.