Graduate Visa
Completed your UK degree? The Graduate Visa gives you 2 years (3 for PhDs) to work, look for work, or explore other immigration routes in the UK.
GRADUATE VISA (UK) – WORK AFTER GRADUATION
The Graduate Visa allows international students who have successfully completed a degree in the UK to remain and work after their studies.
Under this route:
• Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates can stay for up to 2 years
• PhD graduates can stay for up to 3 years
This visa offers full flexibility to work at any skill level, change jobs, or start your own business—without requiring employer sponsorship.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE GRADUATE VISA (UK)
To qualify for the Graduate Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have successfully completed an eligible course at a recognised UK higher education provider with a valid sponsor licence
• Your qualification must be at degree level or above
Eligible qualifications include:
▪ Bachelor’s degrees
▪ Master’s degrees
▪ PhD or other doctoral qualifications
▪ Certain postgraduate diplomas or certificates (subject to requirements)
- You must have studied your course primarily in the UK
• You must hold a valid Student visa (formerly Tier 4) at the time of application
• You must apply from within the UK before your current visa expires
• Your university must confirm your successful completion of studies to the Home Office
• No job offer or employer sponsorship is required
• You are not required to meet an additional English language requirement
• You must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application
WHAT DOES THE GRADUATE VISA ALLOW YOU TO DO?
With a Graduate Visa, you can:
• Work in any role, at any skill level
• Take full-time or part-time employment
• Be self-employed or start a business
• Change jobs freely without restrictions
WHO IS NOT ELIGIBLE?
You cannot apply for the Graduate Visa if:
- Your course does not meet the required level or duration
• You did not complete your studies in the UK
• Your Student visa has expired or been cancelled before applying
• You are applying from outside the UK
• You are attempting to switch from a visa category that does not permit switching (e.g. Visitor visa)
WHAT NEXT AFTER THE GRADUATE VISA?
The Graduate Visa does not directly lead to settlement (ILR). However, it provides an excellent opportunity to:
- Gain valuable UK work experience
• Secure a role that qualifies for a Skilled Worker visa
• Plan your long-term immigration pathway in the UK
OUR SUPPORT AS IMMIGRATION ADVISERS
While the Graduate Visa process may appear straightforward, correct timing and eligibility assessment are essential.
We support you by:
• Assessing your eligibility and advising on timing
• Preparing and reviewing your application
• Ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements
• Advising on your next steps, including switching to Skilled Worker or other routes