What is the difference between a High Potential Individual (HPI) visa and a Graduate visa?

Both visas routes are targeted at recent university graduates, however, there are some distinct differences to be aware of.

Graduate visa

The Graduate visa is for those individuals who are in the UK on a current student visa and who have completed their course of study at Bachelor’s degree level or higher. In such circumstances, individuals may apply for a Graduate visa, which will allow them to remain in the UK for a further 2 years (or 3 years if the applicant obtained a PhD), during which time they may work, study, or look for a job.

High Potential Individual (HPI) visa

In contrast, the HPI visa is for those who have graduated from an ‘eligible university; which is not in the UK, at the level equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree or higher, within the past 5 years. The Home Office publishes a list of ‘eligible universities’ for each year of graduation.

Similarly to the Graduate route, successful applicants will be granted a visa for a 2-year period (or 3 years if the applicant has obtained a PhD), during which time they may work, study, or search for a job in the UK.

Neither type of visa can be extended, nor does either provide a direct path to settlement in the UK. It is, however, possible to switch to a different visa category whilst in the UK as either a Graduate or High Potential Individual.

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 Twitter, Facebook, 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.

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