The Graduate visa gives you permission to stay in the UK for at least 2 years after successfully completing a course in the UK.
Graduate Visa – Key Points
- Students are expected to have completed their study and been granted an award in the UK to be eligible for the Graduate visa.
- This award must have been achieved during the student’s most recent student visa. Students cannot use a course which was completed historically prior to that being in place.
- Students must have a valid student visa and make their application to the Graduate visa before it expires.
- Students must make their application for the Graduate visa while in the UK.
- If a student leaves the UK before they receive a decision on the Graduate visa application, their application is treated as withdrawn and they may no longer be eligible for the Graduate visa.
- Students must not have been previously granted a visa for the Graduate visa or Doctorate Extension Scheme (DES).
- Applicants cannot switch to the Graduate visa from any type of immigration permission except student visas.
What you can and cannot do with a graduate visa
With a Graduate visa you can:
- Work in most jobs,
- Look for work,
- Be self-employed,
- Continue living in the UK with your partner and children if they are eligible,
- Do voluntary work,
- Travel abroad and return to the UK.
You cannot:
- Apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension,
- Work as a professional sportsperson.
If your application is successful, you will get a full list of what you can and cannot do with a Graduate visa.
Your Graduate Visa Application
You must apply before your student visa expires.
As part of your application, you will need to prove your identity and provide your documents.
You must apply online, and pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Further information is available on the UKVI website: