Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work)
No Sponsorship
Any Skill Level
Switch Later
Stay & work in the UK after your degree — 2 years (or 3 for PhD).
The Graduate Visa lets eligible UK graduates work, look for work, or be self-employed without a sponsor. It can’t be extended, but you can switch to long-term routes like Skilled Worker, Innovator Founder, or Global Talent.
At a glance
- Duration: 2 years (3 for PhD/doctoral)
- Work: any skill level, incl. self-employment
- Dependants: only if already on your Student visa
- Processing: usually up to 8 weeks
Eligibility
Valid Student visa
You must be in the UK on a Student visa when you apply.
You must be in the UK on a Student visa when you apply.
Completed eligible degree
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD from a licensed sponsor.
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD from a licensed sponsor.
University compliance
Your university must be a licensed sponsor with track record.
Your university must be a licensed sponsor with track record.
Apply before expiry
Submit the application before your Student visa expires.
Submit the application before your Student visa expires.
Fees & Processing
Application Fee
£822
Pay once when you submit your application.
IHS (per year)
£1,035 per person
Charged for each year of permission (2 or 3 years).
Biometrics
Included
If required, via UKVCAS or app.
SubmissionBiometricsDecision ~ up to 8 weeks
How it works
1
Course completion
Your university confirms completion to UKVI; keep your own proof ready.
2
Apply online
Apply under your current Student visa; pay the fee and IHS.
3
Biometrics & decision
Provide biometrics if asked. Decision typically within 8 weeks.
Work rights & Family
Work rights
- Full-time work at any skill level
- Self-employment permitted
- Switch later to Skilled Worker / Innovator Founder / Global Talent
Family
- Dependants allowed only if already on your Student visa
- No new dependants can be added on Graduate Visa
- Consider switching to a route that allows dependants
After Graduate Visa — switching options
| Route | Why switch? |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker | Sponsored role with licensed employer; path to ILR after 5 years. |
| Innovator Founder | Endorsed innovative business; founder route with clear business milestones. |
| Global Talent | Endorsement/prize for leaders or potential leaders in research, arts, or digital tech. |
FAQs
2 years for Bachelor’s/Master’s; 3 years for PhD/doctoral graduates.
No extension. Switch to Skilled Worker, Innovator Founder, or Global Talent before it expires.
No sponsor or job offer required for the Graduate Visa.
Only those already in the UK as your Student-visa dependants.