Graduate Visa
What is the UK Graduate Visa?
The Graduate Visa does not require employer sponsorship and allows greater freedom in job choice, including self-employment and casual work. In contrast, the Skilled Worker Visa requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meets specific salary and skill requirements, but provides a direct path to settlement.
Eligibility Requirements for the Graduate Route
Who Can Apply for a Graduate Visa?
You must:
- Be in the UK at the time of application
- Hold a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) visa
- Have successfully completed a UK bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD-level qualification
- Have your course completion reported to the Home Office by your education provider
Eligible Degrees and Institutions
You must have completed your course at a higher education provider with a track record of compliance. Eligible courses include:
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
- PhD or doctoral degrees
- Law conversion and bar practice courses
- PGCE or PGDE
Key Criteria for International Students
- You must have studied in the UK for the required length (typically the full duration of the course or at least 12 months)
- The course must have been completed with your current visa
How Much It Costs
When you apply for a Graduate visa, you’ll need to:
- pay the £880 application fee
- pay the healthcare surcharge – this is usually £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK
Step-by-Step Application Process for the UK Graduate Visa
How to Apply for a UK Graduate Visa
Applications must be submitted online through the UKVI portal before your current visa expires. You can apply as soon as your education provider confirms your course completion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Your Online Application
- Create or log into your UKVI account
- Complete the online form
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee and healthcare surcharge
- Prove your identity (via the UK Immigration ID Check app or at a UKVCAS centre)
- Wait for a decision (typically within 8 weeks)
Required Documents for a Successful Graduate Visa Application
Essential Documents Checklist
- Valid passport or travel document
- Biometric residence permit (BRP) or share code (eVisa)
- CAS reference number from your student visa
- Confirmation from your university of successful course completion
- If applicable, letters from sponsors approving the application
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Application
- Applying before course completion is reported to the Home Offic
- Submitting an application after visa expiry
- Providing incorrect or missing documents
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Wait for confirmation of course completion before applying
- Double-check all documents and deadlines
- Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app when possible
Visa Conditions and Limitations
What Are the Visa Conditions for the Graduate Visa?
You can:
- Work in most jobs (including self-employment and voluntary work)
- Travel abroad and return to the UK
- Bring eligible dependents who were on your Student visa
You cannot:
- Extend the Graduate Visa
- Access public funds
- Work as a professional sportsperson
What Type of Work is Allowed Under the Graduate Route?
There are no restrictions on the type of work or employer, making it suitable for flexible or entry-level roles and entrepreneurship.
Can You Study Further on a Graduate Visa?
You can only study if the course is not eligible for a Student visa. Otherwise, you must apply for a new Student visa.
Switching from a Graduate Visa to Other UK Visas
Can You Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. If you receive a job offer from a licensed sponsor that meets the required salary and skill threshold, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa.
Eligibility for Switching to Other UK Work or Family Visas
Can You Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?
You may also switch to:
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Start-up or Innovator Founder Visa
- Partner or Parent visa under the Family route
Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Time spent on a Graduate Visa does not count towards ILR. However, switching to a route that leads to settlement (like Skilled Worker) can start your ILR clock.
Graduate Visa Refusals and Next Steps
Common Reasons for Graduate Visa Refusals
- Applicant not in the UK
- Incomplete or ineligible course
- Home Office not notified of course completion
- Incomplete documentation
How to Appeal or Reapply After a Refusal
Applicants need a Certificate of Sponsorship, must complete the online application, and provide supporting documents. Biometric information may also be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring dependants?
Yes, if they were dependants on your Student visa.
When should I apply?
After your university confirms course completion but before your visa expires.
Can I leave the UK during the application?
No, doing so will withdraw your application.
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