The Graduate Visa is a post-study work route allowing international students who have completed a UK degree to remain in the UK to work or look for work.
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It is an unsponsored route, meaning there is no requirement for employer sponsorship, no minimum salary threshold and minimal restrictions on the type of work undertaken.
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The route is temporary and does not lead directly to settlement, but can be used as a pathway to longer-term visas such as the Skilled Worker route.
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Key Takeaways
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No sponsorship required
No minimum salary threshold
Work at any skill level
Highly flexible employment rights
Visa cannot be extended
No direct route to settlement
Must apply before Student visa expiry
No new dependants allowed
Duration reducing to 18 months from January 2027 (non-PhD)
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Duration
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Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates: 2 years
PhD graduates: 3 years
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From 1 January 2027, non-PhD visas will be reduced to 18 months
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Work & Rights
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Graduate Visa holders may:
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Work in any role at any skill level
Work full-time or part-time
Be self-employed or start a business
Undertake voluntary work
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No sponsorship or employer restriction applies.
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However, holders cannot work as professional sportspersons or coaches.
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Restrictions
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The visa cannot be extended
It does not lead directly to settlement
No access to public funds
Cannot study courses requiring a Student visa
Must switch visa or leave the UK before expiry
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Eligibility Requirements
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Applicants must meet all of the following:
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Successfully complete a UK degree
Study at a Home Office-approved institution
Have completion confirmed by the institution
Meet UK study residence requirements
Hold valid Student or Tier 4 permission
Apply from within the UK
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All requirements must be met in full for the application to succeed.
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Application Process
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The process involves:
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University confirms completion
Submit online application
Pay application fee and IHS
Verify identity
Await decision
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Processing time is typically up to 8 weeks
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Fees & Costs
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Application fee: £880
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
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Total:
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2-year visa: approx. £2,950
3-year visa: approx. £3,985
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Common Risks
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Late application
No confirmation of completion
Insufficient UK study period
Ineligible qualification
Previous Graduate or DES leave
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Accuracy and timing are critical to avoid refusal.
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Next Steps
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Before expiry, applicants must switch to another route:
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Skilled Worker visa
Family visa
Innovator Founder visa
Student visa
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Failure to do so will result in overstaying
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Employer Perspective
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The Graduate Visa allows employers to:
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Hire international graduates without sponsorship
Avoid sponsorship costs and compliance duties
Access flexible talent
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However, long-term retention requires switching the worker into a sponsored route.
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Professional Advice
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The Graduate Visa is a short-term route with strict timing requirements.
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Errors or delays can result in loss of lawful status.
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Early planning is essential to secure long-term immigration options.
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Our Services
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We provide:
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Graduate Visa applications
Document review and risk assessment
Switching strategy (e.g. Skilled Worker)
Employer advisory
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We deliver clear, practical and strategic immigration advice.