Graduate visa

Start Your Career in the UK After Graduation


The Graduate Visa allows international students who have successfully completed a degree in the UK to stay and work, or look for work, at any skill level for up to 2 years (or 3 years for doctoral students). This visa provides a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the UK, kick-start your career, and explore various job opportunities in a diverse and thriving job market.



Our expert team is here to guide you through the Graduate Visa application process and provide personalized advice to help you make the most of this exciting opportunity.

What is the Graduate Visa?

The Graduate Visa is a work visa available to international students who have completed an eligible course in the UK. The visa is designed to give graduates the chance to stay in the UK after completing their studies and gain experience in the workforce.


Key Benefits of the Graduate Visa:


  • Work or Look for Work: You can work at any skill level or job role, giving you complete flexibility in your career search.


  • 2 Years Stay: If you completed an eligible degree in the UK, you can stay in the country for 2 years (3 years for doctoral graduates).


  • Path to Other Visas: The Graduate Visa allows you to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa or other eligible work visas if you meet the requirements during your stay.


  • No Sponsorship Required: Unlike many other work visas, you do not need a job offer or sponsorship to apply for the Graduate Visa.


Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Graduate Visa, you must meet the following criteria:


1. Completed a Qualifying UK Degree:
You must have successfully completed an eligible course at a recognized UK higher education provider. This includes: 

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree
  • PhD or Doctorate
  • Certain professional qualifications (e.g., law, medicine, engineering, etc.)

2.  Held a Valid Student Visa:

You must have been in the UK on a Student Visa or Tier 4 Visa and completed your degree within the UK.


Your application for the Graduate Visa must be submitted while you are in the UK and within a reasonable time after your graduation.


3. Meet English Language Requirements:
You must meet the UK’s English language requirement, which is typically proven by the degree you’ve studied, as most UK higher education courses are taught in English.


4. Have a Valid Passport:
You must hold a valid passport or travel document.


How to Apply for the Graduate Visa

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements for the Graduate Visa. If you're unsure, we offer tailored assessments to help determine your eligibility


Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need to provide supporting documents for your application, including:

  • Your degree certificate or evidence that you have completed your studies.
  • Proof of your immigration status, such as your Student Visa details.
  • Your valid passport or travel document.
  • Proof of your UK study (e.g., confirmation from your university).


Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Complete the online application form on the official UK government website. You will need to provide:

  • Personal details.
  • Information about your degree course.
  • Details of your current immigration status.


Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
The fee for the Graduate Visa is usually £700, but this is subject to change. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).


Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed your online application and uploaded your documents, submit your application. You may be required to attend an appointment to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).


Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Once submitted, the processing time is typically 8 weeks. If your application is successful, you’ll be granted the Graduate Visa, allowing you to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for doctoral graduates).


Visa Duration and Extensions

  • Standard Duration: The Graduate Visa is granted for a 2-year stay after completing a qualifying course (3 years for PhD or Doctorate graduates).
  • Extensions and Switching: After your initial 2 or 3 years, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa or another eligible work visa if you find an eligible job. You cannot extend the Graduate Visa itself.


What You Can Do with a Skilled Worker Visa

  • Work at Any Skill Level: You can work in any job role, regardless of skill level, or look for work during your stay.
  • Self-Employment: You can also start your own business during your stay.
  • No Sponsorship Required: You don’t need a job offer or sponsorship to apply or during your time in the UK.
  • Bring Your Family: If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can bring your partner and children to the UK as dependents.
  • Path to Permanent Residency: After your Graduate Visa ends, you can apply for another visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, to stay in the UK long-term.


Visa Fees

  • Application Fee: £700 (subject to change).
  • Immigration Health Surcharge: You will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your application. The cost is usually £624 per year.


If you need further assistance please contact our visa consultants.


Contact Us