Graduate visa
The Graduate visa is a newly introduced visa based on the old concept of a Post Study Work visa. It allows international undergraduate students to stay in the UK and work or look for work at any skill level for two years or three years for doctoral students.
GRADUATE VISAS ELIGIBILITY
The Graduate route is available to international undergraduate (or above) students or one of the limited number of professional qualifications at degree level or above at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance and a valid Tier 4 or Student visa at the time of application.
You must have completed your entire course as a student in the UK, apart from permitted study abroad programmes or remote study due to COVID-19, for which specific concessions have been approved.
The route does not require you to show funds or finance. You do not need to demonstrate English language ability when applying, as you will have already proved your English language ability by completing your degree at a UK university.
You must have completed the qualification named on the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) associated with your Student (or Tier 4) visa or following a change of course that was allowed without applying for further permission.
TIMING OF APPLICATIONS
You can only apply to the Graduate route once your university has sent you your final course results. Your university also needs to tell the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course before they will consider your application. You do not have to wait until you have graduated to apply.
You must be in the UK when you apply. Applications made from outside the UK are rejected, and applicants will be refused entry. If this happens, you could lose your eligibility to apply for the Graduate route in the future and application fees may not be refunded. It would be best if you did not leave the UK or Common Travel Area whilst you are waiting for a decision on your application. Doing so may affect your eligibility for the Graduate route and result in you being unable to re-enter the UK. If your visa expires after applying to the Graduate route, you will be permitted to remain in the UK whilst your application is considered.
CONDITIONS OF GRADUATE VISAS
Once you receive your Graduate visa, you should note that the following conditions will apply to your stay in the UK in this category.
You will be permitted the following activities on your Graduate visa:
• work in most jobs
• look for work
• be self-employed
• continue living in the UK with your partner and children, if they’re eligible
• do voluntary work
• travel abroad and return to the UK
You will not be able to do the following in the UK on your Graduate visa:
• apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension
• work as a professional sportsperson
