The Graduate Visa UK (also known as the post study work visa) offers international students the opportunity to remain in the UK to work or seek employment after successfully completing an eligible course. International graduates are the primary beneficiaries of this visa, providing UK employers with access to a skilled, diverse, and valuable talent pool that can contribute cultural insights, language skills, and innovation to the workforce. This visa is one of the most accessible post-study work routes introduced to help graduates transition from academia to professional life.

Understanding the Purpose of the Graduate Visa UK

The Graduate Visa UK was launched as part of the UK Government’s strategy to retain skilled talent within the country after they complete their higher education. This post-study route, also known as the graduate route, allows international students who have completed a bachelor’s degree or above from a recognised UK institution to stay and work in the UK without needing sponsorship from an employer.

The visa serves two major purposes — it gives graduates a chance to gain real-world work experience, and it supports the UK workforce by attracting skilled international graduates. UK employers also benefit from the graduate route, as it provides access to a wider pool of international graduates who can contribute to various industries such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and finance.

From a legal perspective, this visa is not tied to a specific job or employer. You can work for any company, become self-employed, or even explore freelance opportunities. The only restriction is that you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach. It’s an open route that offers freedom and flexibility — key aspects that make it one of the most popular immigration pathways for students in the UK.

Key Benefits of the Graduate Visa UK

1. No Sponsorship Needed: Unlike skilled worker visas, no employer sponsorship is required.
2. Flexible Employment Options: Graduates can work full-time, part-time, or on a freelance basis.
3. Stay Duration: Two years for undergraduate and master’s graduates; three years for PhD holders.
4. Career Exploration: Allows graduates to explore diverse career paths by trying different roles and industries before applying for a long-term visa.
5. Pathway to Settlement: While this visa doesn’t directly lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), it provides a solid base to transition to other immigration routes.

Eligibility and Requirements for the Graduate Visa UK

Before applying for a Graduate Visa UK, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements set by the UK Home Office. The immigration rules outline the specific eligibility and requirements for the Graduate Visa UK. The process is straightforward if you have completed your degree from a recognised institution and meet all compliance conditions.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Graduate Visa UK, applicants must:

1. Hold a current student visa (Tier 4 or Student Route) at the time of application.
2. Have successfully completed an eligible course such as a bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, or other approved postgraduate qualification.
3. Study at a licensed sponsor institution recognised by the UK Home Office.
4. Be in the UK when applying for the visa.
5. Have an official confirmation of course completion from your university (before applying).
6. Have studied in the UK for the minimum period required for their course, as specified by UKVI guidelines.

If any of these requirements are not met, the application may be refused — making it crucial to double-check all conditions before submitting your documents.

Once approved, applicants are granted permission to stay and work in the UK under the Graduate Visa.

Documents Required for the Graduate Visa UK

To ensure a successful application, you will need to prepare:

• Current passport or travel document
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), if applicable
• Confirmation of Study (CAS reference number) from your university
• Proof of graduation (degree certificate or university letter)
• Proof of identity and immigration status

Please note that financial evidence and a police registration certificate are no longer required for the Graduate Visa application. You should only submit documents specifically requested by the Home Office.

Unlike other visa routes, you do not need to show proof of finances or English language proficiency for this visa — provided you have already met those requirements under your previous Student Visa.

Eligible Courses and Institutions

You can apply for the Graduate Visa UK if you have completed:

• A UK bachelor’s degree, a qualification at UK bachelor’s degree level, or a postgraduate degree (such as a master’s degree)
• A PhD or doctorate (including any doctoral qualification or other doctoral qualification) from a licensed higher education provider; note that doctoral students and PhD students are eligible for a longer stay (three years) under the Graduate Visa route
• A validated law conversion course (such as the GDL), a legal practice course, a bar practice course, or a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE)
• Other relevant qualification or prescribed professional qualifications at degree level or above, as recognized under UK law or by a UK public authority, and listed in official regulations

Your higher education provider must have a valid sponsor licence and a strong track record of compliance at the time you complete your course. Successful course completion must be confirmed by your provider to the Home Office. If your institution loses its sponsor licence before you finish, your eligibility may be affected.

Application Process for the Graduate Visa UK

Once you confirm your eligibility for the Graduate Visa UK, graduate visa applicants should proceed to complete the application correctly. The process is designed to be digital and user-friendly, but it’s vital to provide accurate information and upload all required documents on time to avoid unnecessary delays or refusals.

Step 1: Apply Online through the Official GOV.UK Website

All applications for the Graduate Visa UK are submitted online via the official UK government website. You must use your existing UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account or create one if you don’t already have it.
When filling in the application form, ensure that:

• All your details match your passport and academic documents.
• You are applying while physically present in the UK.
• You provide accurate course completion details as given by your university.

Step 2: Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

When applying, you must pay:

• Application fee: £822 (as of 2025)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year

The annual immigration health surcharge is a mandatory fee that provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for both principal applicants and dependents.

These payments are made online during the application process. The IHS ensures that you have access to the National Health Service (NHS) while living in the UK.

Step 3: Verify Your Identity

You will need to verify your identity either by:

• Using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app if you have a biometric passport, or
• Attending a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre for biometrics.

You’ll be informed during the application process which method applies to you.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

All documents, including your degree completion confirmation, passport, and BRP, must be uploaded digitally. You may also need to provide:

• A letter or email from your university confirming you’ve successfully completed your course.
• Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number (if requested).

It’s crucial that the documents are clear, valid, and legible.

Step 5: Await a Decision

After submitting your Graduate Visa UK application, you can usually expect a decision within 8 weeks. You will be contacted by UKVI if any further documents or clarifications are required.

Once approved, your visa details will be shared digitally, and your biometric residence permit (if applicable) will be sent by post.

Duration and Conditions of Stay under the Graduate Visa UK

Understanding the duration and conditions of your stay under the Graduate Visa UK is essential for planning your future in the United Kingdom—whether that involves finding employment, pursuing self-employment, or transitioning to another immigration category later. The graduate visa route is the official post-study work pathway for international graduates, providing opportunities to remain in the UK after completing a degree.

Length of Stay

The length of time you can remain in the UK depends on the qualification level you achieved at a recognised institution:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree graduates – granted 2 years of stay. A master’s degree, as a postgraduate qualification, qualifies you for this two-year period.
• PhD or doctoral degree graduates – granted 3 years of stay.

This period begins from the date your visa is approved, not the date your student visa expires.

It’s important to note that the Graduate Visa UK cannot be extended, but it provides an excellent stepping stone to other long-term visa categories such as the Skilled Worker Visa or Innovator Founder Visa once you secure suitable employment.

Work and Employment Conditions

Holders of the Graduate Visa UK enjoy flexible work rights. You can:

• Work for any employer in almost any role.
• Be self-employed or work as a freelancer.
• Undertake voluntary work.
• Leave and re-enter the UK freely during your visa validity period.

However, there are a few restrictions:

• You cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach.
• You cannot access public funds or benefits.
• You cannot study on a course that would normally require a Student Visa (unless it’s a short course).

Switching to Other Visa Categories

The Graduate Visa UK is designed to give international students valuable post-study work experience, but many use it as a bridge to other visa categories. Once you secure a job that meets eligibility criteria, you can switch to:

• A Skilled Worker Visa, if your employer is a licensed sponsor.
• A Global Talent Visa, if you meet the high-potential talent requirements.
• An Innovator Founder Visa, if you wish to start a business.

By transitioning into these routes, you can continue your stay in the UK and work toward permanent settlement.

Family Members (Dependants)

Dependants already in the UK on your Student Visa (such as a partner or children) can also apply to remain with you as dependants on your Graduate Visa UK. However:

• You cannot bring new dependants from outside the UK on this visa.
• Dependants must meet relationship and financial requirements at the time of application.

Documents Required for Graduate Visa UK Applications

When applying for the Graduate Visa UK, a graduate visa holder must ensure that all documentation is complete and accurate for a smooth approval process. The Home Office uses these documents to verify your eligibility, confirm your academic qualifications, and validate your current immigration status. Any missing or incorrect information can result in delays—or, in some cases, visa refusal.

1. Valid Passport or Travel Document

A valid passport or another official travel document is required to confirm your identity and nationality.

• The passport must be valid at the time of application.
• It should clearly display your personal information, photo, and visa stamps from your Student Visa or Tier 4 Visa.

If your passport is due to expire soon, it’s advisable to renew it before beginning your Graduate Visa application.

2. Confirmation of Qualification from Your University

Your education provider (university or college) must have notified the Home Office that you have successfully completed your eligible course with a relevant qualification that matches the course you studied in the UK. If you are facing visa issues after a relationship breakdown, additional options may be available.

You do not need to submit your degree certificate if the Home Office already has confirmation directly from your institution.

However, you may provide:

• Your official degree certificate, or
• An academic transcript showing your final results and course completion date, or
• An official letter from your university confirming successful completion of your degree.

Make sure your relevant qualification was obtained from a licensed Student Visa sponsor and that your course is one of the eligible qualifications listed by the Home Office (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate).

3. Current Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

If you were issued a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) during your previous Student Visa, you’ll need to provide this document when applying.
It helps the Home Office verify your immigration history and biometric data already on file.

4. Proof of Identity through the UK Immigration ID Check App

If you are applying from within the UK, you can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to confirm your identity digitally by scanning your BRP or uploading your biometric information.
This process replaces the need for physical appointments in most cases.

5. Proof of Relationship for Dependants (If Applicable)

If your dependants (spouse, partner, or children) are applying with you, you must include:

• Marriage certificate or proof of durable relationship (for partners).
• Birth certificates (for children).
• Proof of cohabitation such as tenancy agreements, bank statements, or utility bills showing shared addresses.

6. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Payment Receipt

You must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application.
The IHS gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.

The typical IHS cost is £1,035 per year for the Graduate Visa, which will be charged for two or three years depending on your qualification level.

7. Application Payment Confirmation

You must also include proof of application fee payment, currently set at £822 (as of 2025).
Payments are made online, and a confirmation email or digital receipt serves as acceptable evidence.

8. Any Additional Supporting Evidence

In some cases, the Home Office may request additional documents to verify your eligibility, such as:

• Previous immigration records.
• Letters of explanation for any name changes.
• Police registration certificates (if applicable).

Always ensure your documents are in English or accompanied by certified translations.

Step-by-Step Process for Graduate Visa UK Application

Applying for a Graduate Visa UK is a straightforward process if approached systematically. However, accuracy and attention to detail are essential to avoid unnecessary delays or refusals. It is also crucial to ensure that your immigration permission remains valid throughout the application process. Below is a complete step-by-step guide to help you understand how to submit a successful application in 2025.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before you start, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria set by the Home Office. You must:

• Hold a valid Student Visa or Tier 4 Visa.
• Have completed an eligible degree or qualification (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) in the UK.
• Have studied at a licensed Student Sponsor.
• Have not previously been granted a Graduate Visa.

If you don’t meet these conditions for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, your application will be automatically rejected, and your fee will not be refunded.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documents before starting your application. This includes:

• Valid passport or travel document.
• Confirmation of your qualification from your university.
• BRP or digital immigration status (if applicable).
• Proof of relationship for dependants.
• Payment confirmation for the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and application fee.

If you need to secure a sponsor licence for your start-up or business, see our guide for detailed steps.

Organising these documents beforehand ensures a smoother online submission process.

Step 3: Apply Online via the GOV.UK Portal

All applications for the Graduate Visa UK are submitted online through the official GOV.UK website.
Here’s how to begin:

1. Visit gov.uk/graduate-visa.
2. Create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
3. Complete the online form with accurate details matching your passport and academic records.
4. Pay the application fee (£822) and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
5. Upload all supporting documents and evidence as required.

Take your time filling in the form—errors or inconsistencies may result in delays or rejection.

Step 4: Verify Your Identity

Once the application is submitted, you’ll need to verify your identity. You can do this in one of two ways:

• Option 1: Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your BRP or upload your biometric data.
• Option 2: Attend a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre appointment if digital verification is not available for your case.

Most applicants can now use the mobile app, making the process faster and more convenient.

Step 5: Receive Confirmation and Case Processing

After identity verification, your application is officially under review. You’ll receive a confirmation email stating that your application has been received.

Processing for the UK Standard Visitor Visa typically takes around 8 weeks, but this can vary depending on case complexity or document verification delays.
During this time:

• You can remain in the UK legally under your current visa conditions.
• You should not travel outside the UK until a decision is made, as doing so can automatically withdraw your application.

Step 6: Get Your Decision

Once the Home Office reviews your application and verifies your eligibility, you’ll receive an official decision via email.
If successful:

• You’ll receive a digital immigration status (eVisa) confirming your new Graduate Visa.
• Your existing BRP will be replaced by this new digital status.

If refused, the decision letter will outline the reasons for refusal and whether you have a right to request an administrative review.

Step 7: Begin Your Graduate Visa Journey

Once your Graduate Visa UK is approved, you can immediately begin working or searching for employment.
You’ll have full access to UK work opportunities without sponsorship requirements—an excellent chance to establish your career post-graduation.

Graduate Visa UK Processing Time and Validity Period (2025 Update)

Understanding the processing time and validity period of the Graduate Visa UK is crucial for effective planning—especially if you intend to begin employment, continue studies, or apply for further immigration routes after your visa expires.

Let’s look in detail at how long the Home Office takes to process Graduate Visa applications and how long this visa remains valid once granted.

Average Processing Time for Graduate Visa UK

As of 2025, the typical processing time for a Graduate Visa UK application is around 8 weeks (approximately two months) from the date of biometric verification or digital ID check. However, several factors can affect this timeline:

• Accuracy of your application: Incomplete or inconsistent information can lead to additional checks.
• Verification of qualification: The Home Office may contact your university to confirm your eligibility.
• Volume of applications: During peak periods (especially around graduation seasons), processing may take longer.
• Document authenticity checks: If your documents raise concerns, caseworkers may extend the review period.

While the Home Office does not offer a formal priority service for Graduate Visa UK applications, most applicants receive decisions well within the 8-week window—especially if their information is accurate and easily verifiable.

Tips to Speed Up Your Graduate Visa Processing

If you want your Graduate Visa UK application processed without unnecessary delays, or need to understand the Visa requirements for 2025:

• Double-check your application form for typos or mismatched details.
• Upload clear, legible documents to the GOV.UK portal.
• Use the UK Immigration ID Check app, which reduces in-person processing time.
• Avoid submitting multiple applications—this can cause confusion and delays.
• Apply early, ideally soon after your university confirms your eligibility to avoid seasonal backlogs. For more information about Student Dependant Visa UK requirements, consult a comprehensive guide before applying.

Graduate Visa UK Validity Period

The Graduate Visa UK grants different durations of stay depending on your qualification level. If you’re interested in other types of visas, such as spouse or partner visas, you can learn more about the financial requirements for UK Spouse Visa & Partner Visas.

• 2 years – For those completing an eligible Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
• 3 years – For those completing a Doctoral (PhD) degree.

This visa cannot be extended, but once it expires, you can apply to switch to another visa type, such as:

• Skilled Worker Visa (with an eligible employer sponsorship).
• Start-up or Innovator Founder Visa (for entrepreneurs).
• Family or Partner Visa, if applicable.

When the Validity Period Begins

The Graduate Visa’s validity period starts from the date it is granted, not from the date your previous visa expires.
This means your new immigration status takes effect immediately once approved by the Home Office.

For example:

• If your Student Visa expires on 30 June 2025, and your Graduate Visa is approved on 10 June 2025, your Graduate Visa starts from 10 June 2025.

This is particularly important to consider if you plan to travel, work, or switch visas later on.

Maintaining Legal Status During Processing

While waiting for your decision, your immigration status remains protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971, as long as:

• You submit your Graduate Visa UK application before your Student Visa expires, and
• You remain within the UK during the process.

Travelling outside the UK while your application is pending will automatically cancel your application, so it’s essential to stay within the country until you receive an official decision.

Rights and Limitations Under the Graduate Visa UK

Once you’ve successfully obtained a Graduate Visa UK, it’s vital to understand your legal rights, as well as the limitations that come with this visa category. While it offers significant flexibility—especially when compared to a traditional work visa—it’s not entirely unrestricted. Knowing the boundaries of your visa can help you remain compliant with UK immigration law while maximising your opportunities during your stay.

Employment Rights Under the Graduate Visa UK

The Graduate Visa UK is one of the most flexible post-study work routes ever introduced by the Home Office. Graduate visa holders can work in almost any capacity without needing employer sponsorship. Here’s what you are legally allowed to do under this visa:

You Can:

• Work full-time or part-time in any role or industry.
• Be self-employed and operate your own business.
• Take up freelance work across multiple clients or projects.
• Switch jobs freely without notifying the Home Office.
• Work remotely for UK-based or international employers.
• Undertake voluntary work or unpaid internships.

This wide scope of flexibility makes the Graduate Visa UK ideal for graduates exploring different career paths or seeking to gain professional experience in diverse industries.

You Cannot:

Despite its flexibility, some restrictions still apply. You cannot:

• Work as a professional sportsperson or coach.
• Apply for public funds or benefits.
• Study at an institution not authorised under Student Sponsor status (unless it’s a short course).
• Extend this visa beyond the allowed period.
• Switch to another visa from abroad—you must do it within the UK before this visa expires.

Violating these conditions may lead to visa cancellation, future immigration restrictions, or difficulties when applying for another visa category.

Study Permissions Under the Graduate Visa UK

While the Graduate Visa is primarily intended for work purposes, limited study options are allowed.

You can:

• Enrol in short-term or non-sponsored courses, including professional certificates or online training.
• Attend part-time or evening courses that complement your work.

However, you cannot pursue:

• A course requiring a Student Visa, such as a full-time university degree or any programme sponsored by a licensed education provider. For individuals interested in working or establishing a business in the UK, information on the Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa is available.

If you intend to continue your studies, you’ll need to switch back to a Student Visa before starting your new course. Be prepared to pay the required tuition fees for your new course as part of the application process.

Self-Employment and Freelancing Rights

One of the biggest benefits of the Graduate Visa UK is the freedom to work for yourself. This includes:

• Registering as a sole trader with HMRC.
• Running an online business, such as e-commerce, digital marketing, or consulting.
• Working as a freelancer or contractor in fields like design, writing, programming, or media production.

However, you must ensure:

• You pay appropriate taxes and maintain accurate financial records.
• Your work complies with UK employment and trading laws.
• You don’t engage in prohibited sectors or activities (e.g., professional sports coaching).

Family and Dependants on the Graduate Visa UK

A key question for many applicants is whether dependants can join them on this route. Here’s the breakdown:

• You cannot bring new dependants who were not already in the UK with you under your previous Student Visa.
• Dependants already in the UK on your Student Visa (spouse, partner, or children) can extend their stay as your dependants under the Graduate Visa UK.

Each dependant must: (For assistance and expert guidance, consider consulting a UK Immigration Lawyer.)

• Apply separately before their visa expires.
• Continue meeting maintenance and relationship requirements.
• Be granted permission to remain in the UK as part of the application process.
• Remain in the UK—leaving during the processing period can invalidate their application.

Travel and Residency Rules

The Graduate Visa UK allows you to travel freely in and out of the country after approval. However:

• You must not travel while your application is pending, or it will be automatically withdrawn.
• Repeated long absences may affect your eligibility for future immigration routes, such as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

While time spent on the Graduate Visa does not count towards ILR, it plays a valuable role in your career and settlement pathway, especially if you later switch to a Skilled Worker or Innovator visa.

Switching from Graduate Visa UK to Other Immigration Routes

One of the major advantages of the Graduate Visa UK is that it provides international students with the opportunity to gain UK work experience before transitioning into a long-term immigration route. While the Graduate Visa itself cannot be extended, you can switch to another visa category from within the UK, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.

This section explores the most common visa categories graduates transition into, how to apply, and what you need to consider when planning your long-term future in the UK.

1. Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa

For most graduates, the Skilled Worker Visa is the next logical step after the Graduate Visa UK. This route enables you to stay and work in the UK long-term and can eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Eligibility Requirements

To switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa, you must:

• Have a valid job offer from an employer who holds a Home Office sponsorship licence.
• The job must meet the minimum skill level (RQF level 3 or above).
• Your salary must meet or exceed the minimum threshold, typically £38,700 per year (2025 update) or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency (normally fulfilled by your previous UK degree).
• Apply before your Graduate Visa expires.

Advantages

• You can work in the UK long-term with no restriction on the type of role (within the eligible occupation list).
• Time spent on this visa counts toward ILR.
• You can bring dependants to the UK or extend their stay if they’re already here.

Things to Consider

• The employer must be a licensed sponsor; not every company is registered.
• Sponsorship involves administrative and financial obligations for the employer.
• You cannot apply after leaving the UK — it must be done while your Graduate Visa is valid.

2. Switching to an Innovator Founder Visa

If you are entrepreneurial and have a strong, scalable business idea, you can switch to the Innovator Founder Visa.

This route allows you to start and manage your own business in the UK, provided the business is innovative, viable, and scalable and has been endorsed by an approved organisation.

Key Requirements

• A business plan approved by an endorsing body.
• You must play an active role in running the business.
• Your business should be new — you cannot join an existing one.
• You must meet English language and financial maintenance criteria.

Benefits

• Offers a direct route to settlement (ILR) after 3 years.
• You can work for your business and hire employees.
• Encourages innovation and growth within the UK economy.

Considerations

• The business must meet the Home Office innovation criteria.
• Requires a credible business plan and endorsement, which can take time.
• Not ideal for those seeking traditional employment.

3. Switching to a Health and Care Worker Visa

If you work in the healthcare sector, the Health and Care Worker Visa is an attractive option. It offers faster processing, reduced fees, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Eligibility

• You must have a job offer from an NHS organisation, adult social care provider, or eligible health sector employer.
• The job must be on the shortage occupation list or meet required salary levels.
• The employer must be a licensed sponsor.

Advantages

• You can bring dependants with lower financial thresholds.
• The route leads to ILR after 5 years.
• Priority visa processing is often available.

Drawbacks

• Only open to specific professions in health and care.
• Does not permit self-employment or secondary work outside eligible roles.

4. Switching to a Spouse or Partner Visa

If you are in a genuine relationship with a British citizen or someone settled in the UK, you can switch from a Graduate Visa to a Spouse or Partner Visa.

Requirements

• The relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
• You must meet the financial requirement, typically £29,000 annually (updated for 2025).
• You must have suitable accommodation and demonstrate English language ability.

Advantages

• This visa leads directly to settlement (ILR) after 5 years.
• You can work or study freely without sponsorship.
• Dependants can be included.

Considerations

• You must provide strong relationship evidence such as cohabitation proof, joint finances, and communication records.
• The process can take up to 12 weeks or longer.

5. Switching to a Student Visa (If Studying Further)

If you plan to pursue another degree, such as a Master’s, PhD, or professional qualification, you can switch back to a Student Visa.

Eligibility

• You must have an offer from a licensed education provider.
• The course must meet academic progression rules.
• You must show proof of funds for tuition fees and living expenses.

Advantages

• Allows you to extend your stay for further studies.
• May allow you to switch again to a Graduate Visa or Skilled Worker Visa later.

Considerations

• You cannot work full-time during term time.
• This route is for education, not employment.

6. Switching to a Start-up or Scale-up Visa

Although less common, graduates with innovative ideas can consider a Start-up Visa (for early-stage entrepreneurs) or a Scale-up Visa (for experienced professionals in fast-growing companies).

Key Points

• The Start-up Visa is a short-term visa for launching a business idea endorsed by an approved body.
• The Scale-up Visa allows you to work in a company that meets the Home Office’s growth criteria (fast-growing, with high revenue expansion).
• Both offer potential routes to long-term residency.

Your Pathway Beyond Study – Making the Most of the Graduate Visa UK

The Graduate Visa UK offers a vital opportunity for international students to extend their stay and launch their careers in Britain after completing their degree. Designed for those who studied under the Student Visa route, it provides up to two years (or three for doctoral graduates) to gain practical work experience, explore industries, and establish a professional presence in the UK.

Through this visa, you can:

• Work in any job role without sponsorship.
• Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa or other long-term routes once you secure a qualifying job.
• Experience the UK’s dynamic professional landscape while expanding your career network.

However, to ensure a successful application, it’s crucial to:

• Wait until your university confirms your degree award before applying.
• Apply from within the UK before your Student Visa expires.
• Maintain accuracy across all personal details, documents, and university records.
• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and visa fee correctly.
• Keep a copy of your application reference and supporting evidence for your records.

For many graduates, this visa is more than just a temporary stay — it’s a launchpad to a permanent future in the UK. After completing your Graduate Visa period, you may qualify to switch to skilled work, pursue sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Visa, or even begin your journey toward settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

If you’re planning to apply or need expert assistance, AXIS Solicitors can guide you through every stage of your Graduate Visa UK process.
Our immigration specialists ensure that your application meets all Home Office requirements, minimising risks and maximising approval chances.

Whether you’re fresh out of university or preparing for your next professional step — your UK journey doesn’t have to end with graduation.
With the right guidance, documentation, and timing, your Graduate Visa UK can be the start of a successful and fulfilling career path in the United Kingdom.