Revised post-study work rights for international students in the UK

The UK Government has proposed reducing the length of the Graduate visa by six months, from two years to 18 months, and introducing stricter compliance rules for sponsoring institutions, aiming to create a more controlled immigration system under new reforms announced in the latest White Paper.

Q: What has changed regarding post-study work rights for international students in the UK?

A:  Graduates will now only be permitted to remain in the UK for 18 months after completing their studies – a notable reduction from the current two-year (and in some cases, three-year) Graduate visa route.

This change is part of a broader overhaul aimed at delivering a more “controlled, selective and fair” immigration system, as announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a major speech outlining the Government’s new direction on migration policy.

Q: Why is the UK Government making these changes now?

A: The changes follow the publication of a comprehensive White Paper that marks what the Government calls a “clean break” from past immigration policy. Prime Minister Starmer stated that the UK is ending what he described as a former “experiment in open borders,” and moving toward tighter controls to reduce overall migration numbers.

While recognising the vital contributions of student migrants to the UK, the proposed policy change is focused on enforcing compliance, tightening visa eligibility, and ensuring that migration is aligned with the UK’s economic and social priorities. The rationale cited for reducing the length of the Graduate visa is that, while the valuable contributions of graduates to the UK are acknowledged, “it is important that those who stay transition into graduate-level jobs and are properly contributing” to the UK economy. The White Paper references survey data suggesting that between 30% and 70% of visa holders may not be employed in roles at RQF level 6 or above. This is despite other findings indicating that 62% of Graduate visa holders are in employment within one month of receiving their visa, and 90% within six months.

Q: Will these changes affect all international students equally?

A: The most significant change for international graduates is the proposed reduction of the Graduate visa duration from two years (or three years for PhD holders) to a standard 18-month period. The White Paper does not confirm whether PhD graduates will retain the longer duration, suggesting the new limit could apply to all. This shift aims to reduce the use of student visas as a route into the labour market rather than for genuine study, and to encourage quicker transitions into skilled roles or other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker visa.

While most graduates are employed within six months, up to 70% may not be working in graduate-level roles, according to Government data. The changes may also create disparity, as the High Potential Individual visa route is expanding with no such cut in stay duration—potentially giving overseas graduates longer UK access than UK university graduates.

Q: What should international students currently in the UK or planning to come expect next?

A: International students may want to prepare for the possibility of:

• Stricter eligibility and compliance requirements from their sponsoring institutions.
• A shorter post-study stay period, potentially reduced to 18 months. 
• Potentially greater scrutiny when making visa applications.
• Increased emphasis on English language proficiency and demonstrable economic contribution.

Students planning to remain in the UK after graduation may need to consider switching to alternative visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker visa – although this, too, is subject to tightening, with a raised educational threshold and the closure of the care worker route for overseas applicants.

Q: How can Gherson Solicitors help?

A: At Gherson Solicitors, we are closely monitoring these developments and advising international students, education providers, and employers on how to navigate the evolving landscape. We have published a number of blogs in response to the latest immigration law developments. Whether you need support with visa applications, sponsor compliance, or transitioning to long-term settlement routes, our expert immigration team is here to help.

Updated: 27 May 2025

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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.

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