Question reference: S6W-12868
- Date lodged: 5 December 2022
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Current status: Answered by Neil Gray on 12 December 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what engagement it has had with the UK Government regarding the graduate visa scheme, with a view to allowing overseas nationals to remain in Scotland for longer than two years after successfully completing a course.
Answer
Scotland needs a system that supports our higher education sector to deliver the best learning, research and experience for those who choose to study in Scotland. The reinstatement of the Graduate Route was welcome but the scope must also be widened to include HND qualifications from Scottish institutions as was under the previous post-study work scheme and Fresh Talent. it remains clear that UK immigration system still does not address Scotland’s economic, demographic and social needs. We will continue to push UK Ministers to engage meaningfully on these issues.