Can I stay in the UK after finishing university if I can’t find a job?

The UK has long been an attractive destination for students from all over the world. If you are an international student in the UK, you may be wondering how to stay in the UK after graduation when finding a job can take time.

In this blog we will explore your options for staying in the UK after completing your studies, even if securing a job immediately proves challenging.

Can I remain in the UK after completing my university degree?

Yes, you can stay in the UK after completing your degree, but you must have a valid visa that allows you to remain in the country. One of the most popular options for international graduates is the Graduate visa, which provides time to look for a job or start a career in the UK.

What is the Graduate visa, and how does it work?

The Graduate visa is designed for international students who have completed an eligible course at a UK university. It allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years (or three years if you completed a PhD) without requiring a job offer or employer sponsorship. During this time, you can gain valuable UK work experience or even start your own business.

What are the requirements to apply for the Graduate visa?

The main requirement is completion of studies. You must have successfully completed your course of study specified in the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies linked to your Student visa.

Eligible qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree, a postgraduate degree or certain post-graduate professional courses.

When should I apply for a Graduate visa?

You can only apply once your final results have been formally ratified by your institution, including any deferrals and resits.

You must be in the UK on a Student visa, and you must apply before it expires. As you have already met financial and English language requirements when applying for your Student visa, you will not need to provide further proof for these points.

What if I can’t find a job during the Graduate visa period?

If you are unable to secure a job by the time your Graduate visa expires, you may still have options to remain in the UK:

• Switch to a Skilled Worker visa: If you receive a job offer from a licensed sponsor that meets salary and skill requirements, you can switch to this visa.
• Consider other visas: Depending on your circumstances, you could explore other visa categories, such as the Innovator Founder visa or a Family visa, if applicable.
• Pursue further studies: Enrolling on another course at a higher level may allow you to extend your stay under a new Student visa.

How can I ensure a smooth transition to a new visa?

Navigating UK immigration rules can be complex, especially when switching visa categories. Consulting an immigration lawyer can help you explore all available options and ensure your application is successful.

Updated: 25 February 2025

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2025

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