A DRIVE to introduce a reformed visa for international graduates from Scottish universities will be launched from both Holyrood and Westminster.
Humza Yousaf, the SNP's international development minister, has met with party colleague Pete Wishart, the chair of the UK Parliament's Scottish Affairs Committee, to discuss their strategy in forcing the move through.
All Holyrood parties support introducing a more generous post-study visa for non-EU graduates north of the border, after hearing that international students are being put off Scottish universities by tough UK rules.
Previously, international students were allowed to stay and work for two years after graduating, offering them an opportunity to establish successful careers. However, the scheme was scrapped in 2012. Currently, they have four months to find a graduate job paying over £20,800 with a registered employer or face being kicked out.
Inquiries by the Scottish Affairs Committee and Holyrood's Devolution Committee both advocated reform and noted the specific challenges faced by Scotland that make current guidelines unworkable.
However, any change would require Home Office permission, with the UK Government currently maintaining its existing schemes are "excellent" and giving little indication it is willing to back down.
Mr Yousaf said: "It is vital that the UK immigration system meets Scotland’s needs. Reports from committees at both Westminster and Holyrood have clearly made the case for the reconsideration of a post study work route in Scotland, and there is consensus amongst our political parties, and the business and education sectors on this issue.
"I hope that the UK Government will come to Scotland and meet with stakeholders to hear the case for the reintroduction of a post study work route."
Mr Wishart said there was almost universal support for a reformed international student visa scheme in Scotland. He added: "In the discussion about the Fiscal Framework we have been challenged to grow our population and take on our demographic challenges. Allowing us to retain international students who we have educated to a high standard must surely be one of the ways that the UK Government can assist us in meeting that objective."
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