The UK Graduate Visa, commonly known as the Post-Study Work Visa (PSW), is an excellent opportunity for international students who have completed a degree in the UK to stay and work for a certain period. This visa allows graduates to gain work experience, explore career opportunities, and transition to long-term residency options in the UK.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, costs, and work rights under this visa is crucial for international graduates planning their post-study future in the UK. This guide provides a detailed overview of the UK Graduate Visa, including who can apply, how to apply, and what to expect after securing this visa.
1. What is the UK Graduate Visa?
The Graduate Visa is a temporary work visa designed for international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree or other higher education qualifications. It allows them to stay in the UK for:
✔ Up to 2 years (for most graduates)
✔ Up to 3 years (for PhD or Doctoral graduates)
During this period, graduates can work in any job, switch employers, or even start their own business. This visa does not require employer sponsorship, making it one of the most flexible post-study work options.
2. Benefits of the Graduate Visa
✔ No Sponsorship Needed – You can work for any employer without needing a job offer or sponsorship.
✔ Work in Any Job – Unlike the Skilled Worker Visa, there are no restrictions on job type or salary level.
✔ Pathway to Other Visas – You can switch to long-term visas like the Skilled Worker Visa after gaining relevant work experience.
✔ Time to Explore Career Options – You can use this time to gain UK work experience, apply for higher-paying roles, or even explore starting your own business.
3. Who is Eligible for the UK Graduate Visa?
To qualify for the Graduate Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
✔ Completed an Eligible UK Degree or Qualification – You must have finished a course at undergraduate level (Bachelor’s degree), postgraduate level (Master’s), or a PhD at a UK Higher Education Institution.
✔ Valid Tier 4/Student Visa at the Time of Application – You must be in the UK and have a valid Student Visa when you apply.
✔ Study in the UK Requirement – You must have completed your studies in the UK (distance learning does not qualify unless special COVID-19 concessions apply).
✔ Degree Confirmation by University – Your university must confirm to the Home Office that you have successfully completed your degree.
4. How to Apply for the UK Graduate Visa
The application process is fully online and should be done before your current Student Visa expires. Below is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
✔ Ensure you have successfully completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in the UK.
✔ Your university must be a licensed student sponsor.
✔ You must be in the UK at the time of application.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for the Graduate Visa, you will need:
✔ Valid Passport
✔ Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) – This is the card you received with your Student Visa.
✔ Confirmation of Degree Completion – Your university must confirm your course completion to the Home Office.
✔ UKVI Account Details – You may need to create or access your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
Step 3: Submit the Online Application
✔ Go to the UK Home Office website and apply through the Graduate Visa application portal.
✔ Fill in personal details, university information, and BRP details.
✔ Upload required supporting documents.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge
The total cost of the Graduate Visa includes:
✔ Application Fee – £822
✔ Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – £624 per year (Total: £1,248 for 2 years or £1,872 for 3 years for PhD holders)
Note: You must pay these fees online before submitting your application.
Step 5: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment (If Required)
✔ Some applicants may be asked to visit a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) Centre for fingerprints and photographs.
✔ Others may complete the process using the UK Immigration ID Check App.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
✔ Most applications are processed within 8 weeks.
✔ You cannot leave the UK while waiting for a decision, or your application may be withdrawn.
5. Work Rights and Restrictions Under the Graduate Visa
Once you receive your Graduate Visa, you can:
✔ Work in any job at any skill level
✔ Be self-employed or start a business
✔ Switch jobs without restrictions
✔ Continue living in the UK for up to 2-3 years
However, you cannot:
❌ Extend the Graduate Visa beyond the allowed period
❌ Apply for public funds or government benefits
❌ Work as a professional athlete or sports coach
6. Switching from the Graduate Visa to Other UK Visas
Since the Graduate Visa is temporary, many holders look for long-term visa options. Here are some common routes:
✔ Skilled Worker Visa – If you secure a job offer from a UK employer that meets salary and skill requirements, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa.
✔ Innovator Founder Visa – If you start a business with an innovative idea, you may qualify for this visa.
✔ Spouse/Family Visa – If you marry or become a dependent of a UK citizen or settled person, you can apply for a Family Visa.
✔ Global Talent Visa – If you have exceptional talent in fields like tech, science, or the arts, you may be eligible for this visa.
7. Common Reasons for Graduate Visa Rejection
Some applications get rejected due to:
❌ Incorrect or missing documents
❌ Applying before receiving degree confirmation from the university
❌ Errors in personal details (passport, BRP information, etc.)
❌ Unpaid visa fees or IHS charges
To avoid rejection, double-check all documents, ensure university confirmation is received, and submit the application correctly.
8. What Happens After the Graduate Visa Expires?
Once your 2 or 3 years Graduate Visa expires, you must leave the UK unless you switch to another visa. Options include:
✔ Finding a Skilled Worker Visa job before your visa expires
✔ Applying for another visa category (family, entrepreneur, etc.)
✔ Leaving the UK and applying for a new visa from your home country
If you overstay after the Graduate Visa expires, it can negatively impact future UK visa applications.
9. Final Tips for a Successful Graduate Visa Application
✔ Start the application early – Don’t wait until the last minute before your Student Visa expires.
✔ Ensure university confirmation – Contact your university to confirm they have sent completion details to the Home Office.
✔ Keep all documents ready – Ensure passport, BRP, and financial details are up-to-date.
✔ Check visa conditions – Be aware of what you can and cannot do under the Graduate Visa.
Conclusion
The UK Graduate Visa provides a valuable opportunity for international students to stay and work in the UK after graduation. It offers flexibility in job choice, work rights, and potential future immigration options. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and work rights, international graduates can make the most of their post-study period in the UK.
For those planning a long-term stay, the Graduate Visa can be a stepping stone to securing permanent employment, long-term visas, and even UK settlement in the future.
Fola Davies 
Zara Adeyemi