What is the UK Graduate visa?
The UK Graduate visa allows students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree to remain in the UK for a set period to work, look for work or gain experience after their studies. The route does not require sponsorship or a job offer before applying.
Who is the UK Graduate visa for?
The Graduate visa is for graduates from UK universities, who have completed a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD/doctoral‑level qualification while on a UK Student visa. The qualification must have been successfully completed during the most recent grant of Student permission.
You must hold a valid Student visa at the time of application and must apply from inside the UK. This route does not allow applicants to apply outside of the UK, unlike those who apply under the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa route.
Can I work on the UK Graduate visa without sponsorship?
The Graduate route provides flexibility for recent graduates to work or look for work in the UK without sponsorship. There are no minimum salary requirements and no restrictions on skill level unlike in other routes, such as the Skilled worker visa.
Can I be self-employed on the Graduate visa?
If you have a UK Graduate visa, you can work in most roles, be self‑employed, or undertake voluntary work. The only restrictions are that you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or access public funds.
Can I bring dependents on the Graduate visa?
Graduates can no longer bring dependants to the UK. However, dependants already in the UK as Student dependants may remain on the Graduate route, provided they meet the requirements.
How long can I stay on a UK Graduate visa?
The Graduate visa is granted for:
- 2 years for applicants who completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree and the application is made before 1 January 2027.
- 18 months for applicants who completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree and the application is made on or after 1 January 2027.
- 3 years for applicants who completed a PhD or other doctoral‑level qualification.
The visa cannot be extended and does not lead to settlement.
Switching from the Graduate visa to other visa routes
Many individuals later switch into a visa category that leads to settlement once they meet the relevant requirements. Common options include the Skilled Worker visa, Innovator Founder visa and Global Talent visa. The route you can switch into will depend on your circumstances and eligibility.
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Graduate visa FAQs
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Can I bring dependants on the Graduate visa?
Only dependants who were already in the UK as Student dependants can remain on this route. New dependants cannot be added. If you have a child born in the UK there are specific requirements to show, consider seeking legal advice.
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Do I need a job offer to apply for the UK Graduate visa?
No. The Graduate visa does not require sponsorship, a job offer or a minimum salary and you can work in any job. Therefore, the visa provides an opportunity to explore option of working within the UK.
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Can I be self‑employed on the UK Graduate visa?
Yes. You can be self‑employed and set up and run your own business. The only restriction is working a professional sportsperson or sports coach. If you are considering to switching to the Innovator founder visa, seek legal advice as there are rules regarding applying with an already existing business.
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Does the UK Graduate visa count towards settlement?
No. Time spent on the Graduate visa does not count towards settlement, but you may switch into a route that does such as the Skilled worker visa.
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