Graduate Visa
Visa Overview
The Graduate Visa allows eligible international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree to live and work in the UK after graduation.
The visa normally allows 2 years of stay, or 3 years for eligible PhD or doctoral graduates.
Processing Time
Usually around 8 weeks.
Application Fees
Government visa fees may change over time. Check the current applicable fees before applying.
PR Pathway
The Graduate Visa itself is not a direct route to permanent residence. Eligible applicants may switch to another qualifying visa route that can lead to settlement.
Visa Validity
2 years
3 years for eligible PhD/doctoral graduates
Key Benefits
- Live and work in the United Kingdom after graduation
- Work in most jobs without employer sponsorship
- Gain valuable UK work experience
- Work as a self-employed person, where permitted
- Include eligible dependants who are already dependants on your Student visa
- Explore opportunities for switching to a longer-term work route
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Graduate Visa, applicants generally need to:
- Be in the UK when applying
- Hold or have recently held a valid Student visa
- Successfully complete an eligible UK degree or qualification
- Have studied with a UK higher education provider that meets the relevant requirements
- Have their education provider report successful completion to the Home Office
- Meet applicable immigration requirements
General Requirements
- Valid passport and identity documents
- Current Student visa details
- Confirmation of successful course completion
- Biometric information, where required
- Payment of applicable visa fees
- Any additional documents requested by UK Visas and Immigration
Important Note: The Graduate Visa does not generally allow access to public funds and does not itself lead directly to settlement. Sakhi Migration recommends a personalised assessment before applying.
Application Process
01
Initial Assessment
Sakhi Migration reviews your UK study history and Graduate Visa eligibility.
02
Course & Documentation Check
Confirm your qualification and prepare the required identity and immigration documents.
03
Application Lodgement
Submit your Graduate Visa application while in the UK.
04
Processing
UK Visas and Immigration assesses your application.
05
Decision
Receive your visa decision and applicable conditions.
Need Assistance?
Our migration experts are here to help you with your Graduate Visa application.
Contact Us
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