What Is the UK Graduate Visa?
The Graduate Visa, often referred to as the Graduate Route, allows eligible international students to remain in the UK after successfully completing their studies.
Unlike many other work-related immigration routes, the Graduate Visa does not require employer sponsorship. Graduates can work, change jobs, become self-employed or establish a business while they decide on their long-term plans in the UK.
The visa was designed to help retain talented graduates and provide a bridge between education and employment.
Who Is Eligible for a Graduate Visa?
To qualify for a Graduate Visa, you must meet several key eligibility requirements.
Successfully Complete an Eligible Course
You must have successfully completed an eligible qualification in the UK, including:
- Bachelor's degree
- Master's degree
- PhD or doctoral qualification
- Other eligible courses recognised under the Immigration Rules
You will require confirmation from your sponsoring education provider that you have successfully completed your course.
Hold a Valid Student Visa
At the time of application, you must:
- Be in the UK
- Hold a valid Student Visa (or Tier 4 Student Visa)
- Submit your Graduate Visa application before your Student Visa expires
You can apply once you receive notification of completion from your university or educational institution. You do not need to wait until your graduation ceremony.
Comply With UK Immigration Rules
Applicants are expected to have complied with the conditions of their Student Visa and satisfy all relevant Graduate Route requirements.
How to Apply for a Graduate Visa
Applying for a Graduate Visa is completed online through the UK Government website.
Step 1: Submit the Online Application
Applications are made through the GOV.UK website using the Graduate Visa apply page.
Step 2: Verify Your Identity
You will need to prove your identity by providing your biometric information, this can be done by either:
The Home Office will advise which option applies to your circumstances.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fees
As of July 2026, applicants must pay:
- Graduate Visa application fee: £937
- Immigration Health Surcharge: Usually £1,035 for each year that you’ll be in the UK, depending on your eligibility for the length of Graduate visa you are applying for.
Step 4: Await a Decision
Once you have submitted your application, verified your identity and provided any required documents, you will usually receive a decision within 8 weeks, following the current guidance for waiting times from the Gov.uk website.
How Long Does a Graduate Visa Last?
The length of permission granted depends on your qualification and the date of application.
|
Qualification
|
Applications Submitted on or Before 31 December 2026
|
Applications Submitted on or After 1 January 2027
|
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Bachelor's Degree
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2 years
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18 months
|
|
Master's Degree
|
2 years
|
18 months
|
|
PhD / Doctoral Qualification
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3 years
|
3 years
|
The upcoming reduction to 18 months for most applicants forms part of wider UK immigration reforms affecting international graduates. For a broader overview, see our article on UK Immigration Rule Changes 2025: Visa and Settlement Reforms Explained.
Graduate Visa Changes From January 2027
One of the most significant changes affecting international students is the planned reduction in the length of the Graduate Visa.
From 1 January 2027:
- Bachelor's and master's graduates will receive 18 months of permission instead of two years.
- PhD and doctoral graduates will continue to receive three years of permission.
- Graduates may need to transition into sponsored routes sooner than previously anticipated.
These changes make early career planning more important than ever, particularly for graduates hoping to secure sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route.
What Can You Do on a Graduate Visa?
One of the main benefits of the Graduate Visa is flexibility.
Employment
Graduate Visa holders can:
- Work in most jobs at any skill level
- Work full-time or part-time
- Change employers freely
- Take multiple jobs
- Undertake self-employment
- Work on a freelance basis
- Volunteer
There is no sponsorship requirement and no minimum salary threshold specific to the Graduate Route. However, employers must still comply with UK employment law, including National Minimum Wage requirements.
Start a Business
Graduate Visa holders can also:
- Establish a business
- Operate as a sole trader
- Pursue entrepreneurial opportunities
Unlike some business immigration routes, there are no endorsement or investment requirements.
What Happens After a Graduate Visa?
Many graduates decide to remain in the UK by switching into another immigration category before their Graduate Visa expires.
Sponsored Work Routes
Possible sponsored options include:
Non-Sponsored Routes
Depending on your circumstances, you may also consider:
Each route has separate eligibility criteria and application requirements which can be found on GOV.UK.
Related Reading:
Switching From a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa remains the most common route for graduates who wish to continue living and working in the UK long term.
To qualify, you will typically need:
- A job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence
- A role that satisfies the relevant skill requirements
- A salary that meets the applicable salary threshold
- A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by your employer
Unlike the Graduate Visa, the Skilled Worker route can provide a pathway towards settlement, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.
Key Takeaways
The Graduate Visa remains one of the most attractive immigration routes for international students seeking UK work experience after graduation.
However, with the planned reduction from two years to 18 months from January 2027, graduates should take proactive steps to understand their long-term immigration options and begin planning their transition into another visa category where appropriate.
Whether your goal is to gain experience, secure sponsored employment, start a business or explore a route to settlement, understanding your options early can help you make informed decisions about your future in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Graduate Visa before I graduate?
You can apply once your education provider has notified the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course. You do not need to wait for your graduation ceremony or receive your degree certificate.
How much does a Graduate Visa cost?
The application fee is £937. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is usually £1,035 per year of permission granted.
Can I work without sponsorship on a Graduate Visa?
Yes. Graduate Visa holders can work for most employers without sponsorship and at any skill level.
Can I be self-employed on a Graduate Visa?
Yes. Graduate Visa holders can become self-employed, undertake freelance work or establish a business in the UK.
Can my dependants stay with me on a Graduate Visa?
In certain circumstances, dependants who are already in the UK as your dependants may be eligible to remain with you, subject to the applicable immigration rules.
Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. Many graduates move from the Graduate Route to the Skilled Worker route once they secure a qualifying job offer from a licensed sponsor.
Does a Graduate Visa count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain?
No. Time spent on a Graduate Visa does not count towards the residence requirements for settlement.
Can I extend a Graduate Visa?
No. The Graduate Visa cannot be extended. You will need to switch into another immigration category if you wish to remain in the UK after your permission expires.
What changes are happening to the Graduate Visa in 2027?
For most graduates, applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027 will receive 18 months of permission instead of two years. PhD and doctoral graduates will continue to receive three years.
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