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Graduate Visa

Introduction to the UK Graduate Visa

What is the UK Graduate Visa?

The UK Graduate Visa is a post-study work route allowing international students to remain in the UK for at least 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) after completing an eligible UK degree. It offers graduates the opportunity to work, seek employment, or start their own business without requiring employer sponsorship. 

This visa is ideal for international students who wish to gain UK work experience, build a professional network, or explore potential long-term settlement options. It provides a flexible transition from education to employment. 

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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