University of Reading
Job Overview: Senior Immigration Adviser at the University of Reading
The University of Reading is looking for a highly skilled Senior Immigration Adviser to join their Student Experience and Education Directorate. This is a crucial position focused on supporting international students in navigating the complex landscape of UK visa processes. As an expert in student and visitor immigration categories, you’ll guide students through visa requirements, help them understand and comply with immigration rules, and ensure their academic journey aligns with UK Home Office regulations. Additionally, you’ll collaborate with various university departments to ensure visa compliance across all areas while contributing to the broader international student experience.
In this leadership role, you’ll play an integral part in ensuring the university maintains its status as a compliant student sponsor while helping international students with tailored immigration support. You will also work closely with wider teams to enhance academic policies that impact international students and visitors.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the global educational landscape by driving excellent immigration support systems in a world-class university that values diversity, inclusion, and innovative student engagement strategies.
Advice for Applicants: Perspectives on International Education
If you’re planning to apply for this position, here are ways to approach your application with a focus on the international education perspective:
- Highlight Your Experience in Immigration and International Education
Demonstrate your expertise in immigration casework and specific experience with international student visa processes. Share examples of how you’ve helped students navigate complex immigration requirements, particularly under the UK Tier 4 (student visa) rules or similar global education visa processes. If you’ve previously worked in a university international advisory team, include details of program impact or feedback from students.
- Show Intercultural Awareness and Empathy
Effective international student support isn’t just about technical knowledge-it’s also about understanding diverse cultural contexts. Use your application to show that you’re sensitive to the unique challenges faced by international students, including visa stress, adaptation to new academic norms, and cultural transitions. Describe how you’ve worked to improve their overall experience in previous roles.
- Demonstrate Leadership in Immigration Policy
Share examples of how you’ve led or contributed to institution-wide immigration compliance or policy improvements in previous roles. Universities must operate within strict regulatory frameworks, so your ability to spot risks and implement solutions will set you apart. Highlight transactional expertise but also your strategic impact. For example, mention how you’ve trained staff on immigration rules or enhanced systems to support compliance.
- Broaden Your Knowledge Beyond UK Immigration
While the focus is on UK immigration rules, applicants who understand global mobility trends in higher education will be recognized as forward-thinking. If you’ve had experience with international visas in other countries or worked on broader global education initiatives, include this as it positions you as an expert with an adaptable and international perspective.
- Engage with Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Familiarize yourself with the University of Reading’s diversity initiatives, such as the Athena SWAN Charter, Race Equality Charter, and LGBT equality standards. Show how your commitment to diversity and inclusion aligns with the university’s values. Highlight any specific experience you’ve had in supporting diverse student populations or championing equity in access to education and services.
- Tailor Your Application to the Role
Review the person specification provided in the job description and craft your application to meet these criteria exactly. Use clear examples that showcase your ability to work well during high-demand periods, manage complex cases, and deliver detailed immigration guidance efficiently.
- Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, you’ll likely be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of UK immigration regulations and how you’d apply this in real-world scenarios. Focus on answering in a way that reflects both expertise and commitment to the international student experience. Stay updated on recent immigration updates (such as post-study work visa developments) and how they impact higher education.
How to Apply
- Review the Person Specification
The university outlines detailed criteria on their job vacancies webpage, accessible via the ‘Apply’ button. Ensure your application addresses all required qualifications and experiences.
- Submit a Tailored Cover Letter and Resume
Highlight your immigration expertise, ability to handle high-pressure casework, and any contributions to international education compliance or student experience enhancement.
- Contact the Hiring Team if Necessary
If you have questions about the role or the University of Reading’s international education policies, reach out to the hiring manager, Katie Robertson, via the email listed (k.m.robertson@reading.ac.uk).
- Deadline for Applications: 20th July 2025
Ensure your application is submitted on time. Be mindful that interviews are scheduled for 6th or 7th August, so keep these dates open.
Why Choose the University of Reading?
The University’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and fostering global connections makes it an excellent environment for professionals passionate about international education. As a Disability Confident Employer and supporter of gender equality, race equality, and LGBT inclusion, Reading offers an enriching career opportunity where your contributions can make a tangible difference for students worldwide. Beyond professional growth, you’ll be joining a forward-thinking institution that values innovation and supports flexible working arrangements for a better work-life balance
To apply for this job please visit jobs.reading.ac.uk.