If you have recently completed a degree in the UK and would like to stay in the country to work, the Graduate visa could be the perfect option. This route allows eligible international students to remain in the UK for up to two years after completing an undergraduate or master’s degree (or three years after a PhD), giving you valuable time to kickstart your career.

It is important to note that on 12 May 2025 the government published its white paper titled ‘Restoring Control over the Immigration System’ which sets out government plans regarding immigration. If these plans are introduced, the time granted to applicants under the Graduate Route will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months. It is important to act not, to ensure that you are not affected by these changes.

Who can apply?

To be eligible for a Graduate visa, you must:

• Be in the UK at the time of application.
• Hold a valid Student visa.
• Have completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider that has a track record of compliance.
• Your education provider must have notified the Home Office of your successful course completion.

When to apply

You can apply as soon as your university has confirmed that you have successfully completed your course, and they have directly informed the Home Office. You will be informed when this happens. Do not wait for your graduation ceremony.

Important: You must apply before your Student visa expires.

What happens after you submit the application online?

• You will usually get a decision within 8 weeks.
• During this time, you can stay in the UK and begin working or job hunting.
• Once granted, the Graduate visa allows you to work in most jobs, be self-employed, and even continue living in the UK without needing employer sponsorship.

Things to note

• The Graduate visa cannot be extended. However, before it expires, you can switch to another visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if you find a qualifying job.
• You cannot claim public funds on this visa.
• Dependants (your partner and children) can apply if they were already dependants on your Student visa.

Conclusion

The Graduate visa is a fantastic way to begin your post-study journey in the UK. Make sure to apply early and have all your documents ready. It is a great stepping stone to longer-term work or settlement routes in the UK.

Updated: 16 May 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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