Graduate Visa Overview
The Graduate Visa (formerly the Post-Study Work visa) was reintroduced in July 2021 and allows individuals who have successfully completed a degree or other qualifying course at a licensed UK higher education provider to remain in the UK for up to two years (three years for doctoral graduates) to work, look for work, or pursue self-employment.
The Graduate Visa is an unsponsored route, meaning applicants do not need a job offer at the point of application. There are no restrictions on the type of work undertaken — Graduate Visa holders may work at any skill level. The visa represents an important pathway for international graduates to gain work experience in the UK and, where they secure qualifying employment, transition to the Skilled Worker route.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Graduate Visa, applicants must:
- Have successfully completed a qualifying course at a licenced Student sponsor in the UK — normally a UK degree (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level) or a course at degree level or above
- Have been sponsored by a licenced Student sponsor that is also approved to sponsor the Graduate route
- Have been in the UK with a valid Student Visa for at least six months of their studies (or the full period of the course, if shorter than six months)
- Not have previously been granted leave as a Graduate
- Be applying from within the UK
Duration of Leave
A successful Graduate Visa application grants:
- Two years' leave for bachelor's and master's level graduates
- Three years' leave for doctoral graduates
The Graduate Visa cannot be extended. However, graduates may switch into other immigration routes — most commonly the Skilled Worker route — from within the UK, provided they meet the requirements of that route.
Working Rights
Graduate Visa holders may work in any occupation at any skill level. They may also be self-employed. There are no restrictions on the number of hours worked, and Graduate Visa holders may change employers freely during their period of leave.
Transitioning to the Skilled Worker Route
The Graduate Visa is commonly used as a stepping stone to the Skilled Worker route. Once a graduate secures employment that meets the Skilled Worker requirements (a qualifying role at the appropriate skill and salary levels from a licensed sponsor), they may apply to switch to the Skilled Worker route from within the UK. Britlaw Solicitors advises on this transition and on ensuring applications are made correctly and in good time before Graduate Visa leave expires.
How Britlaw Can Help
Our solicitors advise on Graduate Visa eligibility, assist with applications, and advise on the transition to the Skilled Worker and other routes following the Graduate Visa period. We also advise where there have been complications during the Student Visa period that may affect Graduate Visa eligibility.