United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · work unsponsored
Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of eligible UK higher education institutions.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The Graduate route provides a 2-year post-study work permission (3 years for PhD graduates) to international students who completed an eligible UK degree. It is unsponsored but cannot be extended — holders must switch to Skilled Worker, Global Talent, or other routes before it expires.
Processing time
Typically within 8 weeks of a qualifying in-UK application.
See source window: 6 weeks – 8 weeks →Government fees
Application fee (£880 as of recent cycles) plus Immigration Health Surcharge £1,035/year. Verify on GOV.UK.
Typical duration
2 years (3 years for doctoral graduates); non-extendable.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Successful completion of an eligible UK degree or qualifying course.
Valid Student visa at the time of application.
Application made inside the UK before Student visa expiry.
Common blockers
Studied at an institution not on the Higher Education Provider list with a track record of compliance.
Course completion not yet confirmed to Home Office by sponsor.
Typical evidence
Confirmation of course completion from the higher education sponsor.
Passport and BRP.
Application pathway
Step 1
Complete your UK degree
Finish the qualifying programme and await confirmation from your institution to the Home Office.
Step 2
Apply before Student visa expires
File the Graduate application in-country before Student permission lapses.
Step 3
Begin work flexibly
Work for any employer at any skill level; self-employment permitted. Dependants on Student visa may extend if eligible.
Step 4
Plan your next route before expiry
The Graduate route cannot be extended. Switch to Skilled Worker, Global Talent, Innovator Founder, or other eligible route before expiry.
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Frequently asked questions
Does time on the Graduate visa count toward UK settlement?
No. The Graduate route does not itself lead to settlement and time spent on it does not count toward the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain on most onward routes.
Can I work at any skill level on the Graduate visa?
Yes. Unlike Skilled Worker, there is no occupation or salary minimum. You can work in any role, be self-employed, or start a business.
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