Student Visa to Work Permit?

I am on a student visa until end of January 2007 taking up MSc in International Development and will be finished by August (but not graduating until December). I have met someone (EEA national) and would like to stay in the UK. Marriage is not totally out of the question, but would want to thoroughly explore other visas first. Read about other schemes, and it seems that I don't qualify (10 pts shy for HSMP, MSc started before May 06 for new SEGS). My experience in the US was in commercial lending (a few months short of 5 yrs) and have found jobs that would fit my undergrad degree and experience.  I thought abt filling out an assessment form by an immigration specialist to see what they say about my chances.  Should I just apply for jobs and see if the employer will apply for a work permit (read abt advertising requirements and such)? Or should I be looking for jobs to fit my MSc? Or is all this almost impossible?  Any advice will be great.  Thanks. 

This should probably be moved to the immigration thread...

If you have a degree then you will qualify for a work permit - the rest will depend on the job and salary you are offered.  I'd say to go for a work permit, and to read www.workingintheuk.gov.uk first, so you know what jobs could get you a permit and what won't.  With an MSc in International Development, the chances with depend very much on whether the job fits your specific field of interest.

Vicky

Thanks Vicky.

The positions I am looking at mainly relate to my Banking and Finance undergrad.  I was thinking that since I have work experience (almost 5 years) there, it may be easier to find a job. Mostly credit analyst-type positions at £20K-£35K per year.  I seem to recall reading somewhere that these jobs (business jobs in general) are very competitive, so does that mean harder to get a work permit for? I have read through the website, and besides the shortage occupations and other Tier 1-category jobs, I didn't see anything about business and finance jobs being a job I can get a work permit for or not.  As far as my Int'l Dev't interests are finance-related also. My MSc's focus is Development Finance.   Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.

I think that if you are offered a job in this field and at that salary, and the job has been correctly advertised, then you stand a very good chance of getting a work permit.

It may be useful for your employers to get a consultant to assist with the application.

Vicky

Thanks. That's very encouraging.  Any recommendations as far as consultants? I'm in the beginning stages, but it's best to be prepared all the way.  I will post updates. 

You can get a list here www.oisc.gov.uk

(You will find my firm listed there too).

Vicky

Just remember, you can't get your student visa switched to FLR(IED) until AFTER your exam results are finalized.  I had my FLR denied when I tried to switch before my FINAL results were in.  I knew I'd successfully completed and had my uni write a letter stating as such.  But the HO still denied me.  I had to go back to the LA consulate to get my entry clearance after my work permit was issued.

Thanks.

Kristi, can I ask about your experience finding a job and an employer willing to get a work permit?  Also, what field are you in?  I have found a few job ads, and I'm sending my CV this week.  Thanks.

I'm a teacher so finding a job was not that difficult because I'm in a shortage area.  I did get turned down for several positions before I was hired but my school had no trouble getting my work permit issued.