What Is the UK Graduate Visa?
The Graduate visa is a post-study work route allowing international students who have completed a qualifying degree at a licensed UK university to remain in the UK and work — or look for work — after graduation. It requires no job offer and no employer sponsorship, making it a highly flexible and popular route for international graduates.
Who Is Eligible?
- Studied in the UK on a valid Student visa
- Successfully completed your course with confirmation from your institution
- Applying from within the UK before your Student visa expires
- Hold a UK-recognised degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) or other qualifying qualification
How Long Does the Graduate Visa Last?
The Graduate visa is valid for two years for most graduates, or three years for those who have completed a PhD or other doctoral qualification. The Labour government announced in May 2025 that the Graduate visa would be reduced from two years to 18 months for most graduates as part of broader immigration reforms. Applicants should seek current advice at the time of their application, as this area has been subject to change.
What Can I Do on a Graduate Visa?
The Graduate visa permits you to work in most roles in the UK, including roles that would not meet the salary or skill threshold for a Skilled Worker visa. You can be employed or self-employed and are free to change employers or roles during the visa period. This is an excellent opportunity to gain UK work experience while building your career and establishing yourself in the labour market.
Does the Graduate Visa Lead to Settlement?
The Graduate visa does not directly lead to settlement. However, it is widely used as a pathway to the Skilled Worker visa or other routes that do lead to ILR. Many graduates use their time on the Graduate visa to secure employment with a licensed sponsor and then switch to the Skilled Worker route, beginning the five-year path to ILR.