UK Graduate Visa Overview

The UK Graduate Visa is a popular post-study work visa aimed at international students who want to work in the UK at the end of their studies. The visa targets students who have studied within the UK for at least 12 months and attained a higher level qualification, typically of bachelor’s degree level or above. You can submit an application if your qualification meets the requirements and you satisfy all the other eligibility criteria. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a 2- or 3-year graduate visa based on the specific qualification obtained.

The Graduate Visa has many benefits, including working and living in the UK without restrictions. Unlike many other work visas, there is no requirement for sponsorship by an employer, giving you the freedom to work across various companies and sectors. There’s also the possibility of working as a contractor or on a self-employed basis. The Graduate Visa is often seen as a stepping stone to other work visas, which can then lead to permanent residence within the UK and Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Important Updates

4th December 2023

A statement made this evening by James Cleverly, the UK Home Secretary, will have a massive impact on Graduate Visas in 2024 and beyond. In the statement, a series of amendments to the UK immigration system were announced. Amongst these changes was a review of Graduate Visas. In the year to June 2023, it was reported that 98,000 Graduate Visas were issued, reflecting the substantial demand for them from overseas students.

While there have not been any specific details provided to date, it’s likely that the review will focus on so-called ‘abuse’ of the system. Given historical precedents and the direction of the government immigration policy, it’s likely that this review will restrict Graduate Visa holders from bringing dependant partners or children with them. This would be consistent with the recent changes to student visas that revoke the privilege of international students to bring their dependants unless enrolled in postgraduate research programs. The other potential changes could be to their definition of acceptable qualifications, approved universities, and possible changes to the duration of the visa.

We appreciate these changes are concerning developments and may have far-reaching implications for many students and their families. If you plan on applying for a Graduate Visa or Graduate Dependant Visa in the next 12 months, we recommend contacting us at your earliest convenience to discuss your circumstances and how you should proceed.

21st December Update

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will commence a review of Graduate Visas in January 2024. The review will focus on “the visa route to ensure that it is operating in the best interests and priorities of the UK, and ensuring the integrity and quality of the UK higher education system is maintained.” The review is expected to run for most of 2024, so it’s not anticipated there will be any immediate changes in the short to medium term.

Who is Eligible to Apply for the UK Graduate Visa?

There are four key criteria that need to be satisfied for you to be eligible for a UK Graduate Visa. All of the following conditions need to be met for you to be eligible:

• You must currently be in the UK.
• Your current visa must be a Student Visa or Tier 4 (General) Student Visa.
• You must have completed a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or another eligible course for a minimum duration while on your Student Visa or Tier 4 (General) Student Visa.
• Your education provider, such as your university or college, must have notified the Home Office that you have successfully finished your course. If you are uncertain whether your education provider has informed the Home Office about your course completion, you should ask them for confirmation.

Providing you satisfy all of the above criteria, you will be able to make an application for a UK Graduate Visa.

Application Process for a UK Graduate Visa

The process for applying for a Graduate visa in the UK involves several steps. Here is a step-by-step overview:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Graduate visa.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect your passport, current visa, degree certificate or academic transcript, and other supporting documents.
3. Complete the Online Application: Fill in the required details on the UK government website.
4. Pay the Application Fee: £822 for you and any dependants.
5. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Based on visa length.
6. Book Biometric Appointment: Schedule fingerprinting and photograph at a visa application centre.
7. Submit Your Documents: Upload documents online before your appointment.
8. Attend Biometric Appointment: Bring your passport, BRP, and appointment confirmation.
9. Wait for a Decision: Typically within 8 weeks.
10. Visa Decision and BRP: Receive decision letter and new Biometric Residence Permit if approved.

Cost and Processing Times for a UK Graduate Visa

The application fee for a UK Graduate Visa in 2023 is £822. In addition to the application fee, you will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which costs £624 per year. Therefore:

• 2-year Graduate Visa IHS: £1,248
• 3-year Graduate Visa IHS: £1,872

A biometric appointment fee may also be payable.

The processing time begins once the application has been fully submitted with supporting documents and biometric information. Most applications are processed in around 8 weeks, though this can vary especially during peak periods at the end of the academic year. You can remain in the UK while awaiting a decision.

Rights and Permissions on a UK Graduate Visa

Having a Graduate visa enables you to:

• Work in most employment sectors
• Search for jobs and change employers
• Start your own business or work self-employed
• Live with eligible family members
• Do voluntary work
• Travel in and out of the UK

However, there are certain restrictions:

• Cannot access most public funds or benefits
• Not eligible for State Pension
• Cannot work as a professional sportsperson