Overview
The Graduate visa is designed to help international students transition from study to the UK workforce. You must apply from within the UK while your current Student visa is still valid. Your university must have officially notified the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course before you submit your application.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be in the UK with a valid Student visa. You must have completed an eligible course (such as a UK bachelor's, postgraduate degree, or other qualifying qualification) at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance. You cannot have previously held a Graduate visa or a Doctorate Extension Scheme visa.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your university has notified the Home Office of your successful course completion.
- 2
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather your passport, BRP, and any necessary evidence for dependants.
- 3
Step 3: Submit Online
Complete the online application form on the official GOV.UK website before your current Student visa expires.
- 4
Step 4: Pay Fees
Pay the £937 application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for the full duration of your visa.
- 5
Step 5: Verify Identity
Use the 'UK Immigration: ID check' app or attend a biometric appointment if required.
Required documents
- Current passport or valid travel document
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or digital status
- Confirmation of your degree completion from your university
- Proof of relationship for dependants (if applicable)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
The Graduate visa does not lead directly to settlement. However, it allows you to stay in the UK to switch into other routes, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which may lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Family options
Dependants (partner and children) can only be included if they are already in the UK as your dependants on your current Student visa. New dependants cannot join you from outside the UK.
Language notes
As you have already completed a degree in the UK, you generally meet the English language requirement through your qualification.
After arrival
Once your visa is granted, you are free to work, look for work, or be self-employed. You must maintain your immigration status and can switch to other visa routes if you secure a qualifying job.
Common pitfalls
- Applying after your Student visa has expired.
- Applying before your university has officially notified the Home Office of your course completion.
- Leaving the UK before a decision is made on your application.
- Assuming the Graduate visa leads directly to settlement (it does not).
FAQs about Graduate visa
Who is the Graduate visa for?+
International students currently in the UK on a valid Student visa who have successfully completed a bachelor's, master's, or PhD degree at a qualifying UK institution.
What are the eligibility requirements for Graduate visa?+
To qualify, you must be in the UK with a valid Student visa. You must have completed an eligible course (such as a UK bachelor's, postgraduate degree, or other qualifying qualification) at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance. You cannot have previously held a Graduate visa or a Doctorate Extension Scheme visa.
How much does the Graduate visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Graduate visa: £937 application fee plus an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per year of the visa duration.. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Graduate visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically within 8 weeks of completing your application and identity verification..
How long can I stay on the Graduate visa?+
2 years (or 18 months for applications on/after 1 Jan 2027) for Bachelor's/Master's graduates; 3 years for PhD/doctoral graduates.
Can I work on the Graduate visa?+
You can work in most jobs, be self-employed, or look for work. Professional sportsperson roles are restricted.
Does Graduate visa lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
The Graduate visa does not lead directly to settlement. However, it allows you to stay in the UK to switch into other routes, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which may lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
What are common mistakes with Graduate visa?+
Applying after your Student visa has expired. Applying before your university has officially notified the Home Office of your course completion. Leaving the UK before a decision is made on your application.