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.
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.
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.
Key Takeaways
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)
Duration
Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates: 2 years
PhD graduates: 3 years
From 1 January 2027, non-PhD visas will be reduced to 18 months
Work & Rights
Graduate Visa holders may:
- Work in any role at any skill level
- Work full-time or part-time
- Be self-employed or start a business
- Undertake voluntary work
No sponsorship or employer restriction applies.
However, holders cannot work as professional sportspersons or coaches.
Restrictions
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
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following:
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
All requirements must be met in full for the application to succeed.
Application Process
The process involves:
- University confirms completion
Submit online application
Pay application fee and IHS
Verify identity
Await decision
Processing time is typically up to 8 weeks
Fees & Costs
Application fee: £880
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
Total:
- 2-year visa: approx. £2,950
- 3-year visa: approx. £3,985
Common Risks
Late application
No confirmation of completion
Insufficient UK study period
Ineligible qualification
Previous Graduate or DES leave
Accuracy and timing are critical to avoid refusal.
Next Steps
Before expiry, applicants must switch to another route:
Skilled Worker visa
Family visa
Innovator Founder visa
Student visa
Failure to do so will result in overstaying
Employer Perspective
The Graduate Visa allows employers to:
Hire international graduates without sponsorship
Avoid sponsorship costs and compliance duties
Access flexible talent
However, long-term retention requires switching the worker into a sponsored route.
Professional Advice
The Graduate Visa is a short-term route with strict timing requirements.
Errors or delays can result in loss of lawful status.
Early planning is essential to secure long-term immigration options.
Our Services
- We provide:
- Graduate Visa applications
- Document review and risk assessment
- Switching strategy (e.g. Skilled Worker)
- Employer advisory
We deliver clear, practical and strategic immigration advice.