Graduate Visa

The Graduate Visa, which must be applied for from inside the UK, gives you permission to stay in the country for at least 2 years after successfully completing a course here.

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A quick look

This visa lasts for at least two years, and three years if you have a PHD or other doctoral qualification.

No, this visa does not need to be accompanied by a Sponsor Licence.

You are allowed to:

  • Work in most jobs
  • Look for work
  • Be self-employed
  • Continue living in the UK with your partner and children, if they are eligible
  • Do voluntary work
  • Travel abroad and return to the UK

You are not allowed to:

  • Apply for most public funds/benefits, including State Pension
  • Work as a professional sportsperson

Graduate Visa

The Graduate Visa, which must be applied for from inside the UK, gives you permission to stay in the country for at least 2 years after successfully completing a course here. While Graduate Visa is its official name, it is also referred to as a Post Study Work Visa or PSW Visa.

Requirements

You can apply for a Graduate visa if:

  • You are in the UK
  • Your current visa is a Student Visa
  • You studied a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period of time with your Student Visa
  • Your education provider has told the Home Office you have successfully completed your course.


If you are not eligible for a Graduate visa, you may be eligible for another type of visa to stay in the UK.

How long can you stay?

The visa lasts for at least two years. It lasts three years if you have a PHD or other doctoral qualification. The two or three year time limit will begin from the day your application is approved.

You can not extend your Graduate Visa but may be able to switch to a different visa after its expiry. Many people make the switch from the Skilled Worker Visa, for example.

How much does it cost?

The visa includes a £715 application fee and a healthcare surcharge, which is currently £1,035 for each year you will be in the UK. 

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More UK Visa Routes

The information contained on this page is sourced from UK Visas and Immigration and is subject to change. While Woodcock Law Limited makes every effort to keep this information current, prices and information cannot be guaranteed and should always be checked on www.gov.uk.

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