Graduate Visa: Launch Your UK Career

Overview

The Graduate Visa enables international students to remain in the UK after completing an eligible qualification. It allows you to work or seek employment at any skill level without the need for employer sponsorship. This route offers a strategic pathway to gain professional experience and potential settlement.


Key Benefits

  • Unsponsored Employment: Work or job-hunt at any skill level without employer sponsorship.
  • Operational Flexibility: Options include employment, self-employment, or business establishment.
  • Visa Switching: Potential to switch to the Skilled Worker Visa or other eligible routes from within the UK.
  • Dependants: Partners and children may remain if they are already dependants on your current Student Visa.


Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, you must meet the following core requirements:

  1. Qualifying UK Degree: Successful completion of a Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, or eligible professional qualification. Your education provider must have confirmed your completion to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
  2. Valid Student Status: You must currently hold a valid Student Visa (or Tier 4) and have completed your degree within the UK.
  3. In-Country Application: You must apply from within the UK before your current visa expires.
  4. Valid ID: Possession of a valid passport or travel document.

Note: A separate English language test is generally not required.


Application Protocol

  • Step 1: Eligibility Assessment. Confirm you meet all criteria. LNvisa offers tailored pre-application assessments.
  • Step 2: Documentation. Prepare your degree certificate, current visa details, passport, and CAS/university confirmation.
  • Step 3: Submission. Complete the online application on the official UK government portal.
  • Step 4: Fees. Pay the £880 application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
  • Step 5: Biometrics. Attend a biometric appointment if required.
  • Step 6: Processing. Standard processing time is approximately 8 weeks.


Visa Duration & Policy Changes

  • Current Policy (Until 31 Dec 2026): 2 years for Bachelor’s/Master’s graduates; 3 years for Doctoral graduates.
  • Projected Policy (From 1 Jan 2027): Non-PhD duration reduces to 18 months; Doctoral graduates remain at 3 years.
  • Restriction: This visa cannot be extended. You must switch to another category before expiry to remain in the UK.


Cost Breakdown

  • Application Fee: £880 per applicant.
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year.


Professional Advisory

Every application is assessed on specific merits. Factors such as course completion timing, university reporting, and future switching plans significantly impact the outcome.

LNvisa provides specialized immigration counsel, aligning your study history with long-term UK career objectives.

Contact LNvisa for a strategic assessment and application support.