If you are an international student completing your studies in the UK, the Graduate Visa can be one of the most valuable immigration routes available to you. It allows graduates to remain in the UK to work, gain experience, and explore long-term immigration pathways such as the Skilled Worker visa.
In this guide, we explain what the Graduate Visa is, who qualifies, how to apply, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is the UK Graduate Visa?
The UK Graduate Visa allows international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree to stay in the UK after their studies without needing a job offer or sponsorship.
This visa provides flexibility for graduates to:
• Work in almost any job
• Look for employment
• Start a business
• Gain professional experience
• Transition into long-term visas
The Graduate Visa is part of the UK government’s strategy to retain global talent and support international graduates entering the UK workforce.
How Long Does the Graduate Visa Last?
The visa duration depends on your qualification:
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree
• You can stay in the UK for 2 years
PhD or Doctoral Qualification
• You can stay in the UK for 3 years
Importantly, the Graduate Visa cannot be extended, but it can lead to other visas such as the Skilled Worker visa.
Graduate Visa Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Graduate Visa, applicants must meet several requirements.
1. You Must Have a Valid Student Visa
You must be in the UK under a Student visa or Tier 4 visa at the time of application.
2. Completion of an Eligible Course
Your university must confirm to the UK Home Office that you successfully completed:
• A UK Bachelor’s degree
• A Master’s degree
• A PhD or doctorate
• Certain professional qualifications
3. Your Institution Must Be a Licensed Sponsor
Your university must be a licensed student sponsor with a track record of compliance.
4. You Must Apply From Inside the UK
Graduate Visa applications cannot be made from outside the UK.
When Should You Apply?
You can apply only after your university has notified the Home Office that you completed your course.
The application must be made before your Student visa expires.
Many students make the mistake of applying too early or too late, which can lead to complications or refusal.
Graduate Visa Application Process
The application process is generally completed online and involves the following steps:
- Confirm course completion with your university
- Submit the online Graduate Visa application
- Pay the visa application fee
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Verify your identity using the UK Immigration ID Check app or attend a biometrics appointment
Once approved, applicants receive a digital immigration status (eVisa).
Graduate Visa Fees
As of 2026, the typical costs include:
• Application fee: £822
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
For a 2-year visa, the total cost can exceed £2,800, so planning ahead is essential.
What Jobs Can You Do on a Graduate Visa?
One of the biggest advantages of this visa is flexibility.
You can:
• Work full-time
• Work part-time
• Be self-employed
• Start a business
• Switch employers freely
Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, no sponsorship is required.
However, the visa does not count directly toward settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
Switching From Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa
Many graduates use this visa to secure employment and later switch to the Skilled Worker visa, which can lead to permanent settlement.
To switch, you must:
• Obtain a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
• Meet the minimum salary requirements
• Meet English language requirements
Planning this transition early is critical to avoid immigration issues.
Common Graduate Visa Mistakes
Many applicants encounter avoidable problems such as:
• Applying before the university confirms completion
• Letting their Student visa expire before applying
• Incorrect documentation
• Not planning the transition to long-term visas
• Misunderstanding work restrictions
Professional legal advice can help avoid costly delays or refusals.
How Villars Legal Can Help
At Villars Legal Limited, we provide professional immigration advice to international students and graduates navigating the UK immigration system.
Our services include:
• Graduate Visa applications
• Student visa extensions
• Switching to Skilled Worker visas
• Employer sponsorship advice
• Immigration strategy planning
Our team understands the challenges international students face and works closely with clients to ensure applications are prepared correctly and submitted efficiently.
Contact Villars Legal
If you are planning to apply for a UK Graduate Visa or need advice on your immigration options after graduation, our experienced legal team is here to help.
Villars Legal Limited
Registered address: 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, England, WC2H 9JQ
📞 T: 0044 7782354715 | 02081061209
🌐 W: www.villarslegal.co.uk
✉️ E: info@villarslegal.co.uk
Book a consultation today and take the next step toward securing your future in the UK.