Graduate Route Visa 🎓
Stay in the UK for up to 2 years after graduation to work, look for work, or start your own business.
Overview
The Graduate Route visa allows international students who have successfully completed a degree at a UK university to stay in the UK for up to 2 years (or 5 years if you have a PhD) to work or look for work. This visa is designed to help graduates gain valuable work experience and potentially transition to other visa routes.
Important: You must apply within 5 years of completing your UK degree, and you cannot have previously been on the Graduate Route visa.
Eligibility Requirements
✅ You must have:
- ✓Successfully completed a UK degree course
- ✓Been studying in the UK on a Student visa
- ✓Completed your course within the last 5 years
- ✓Not previously been on the Graduate Route visa
- ✓Been sponsored by a licensed Student sponsor
🎓 Degree Levels:
Undergraduate Degree
2 years on Graduate Route visa
Master's Degree
2 years on Graduate Route visa
PhD Degree
5 years on Graduate Route visa
What You Can Do on This Visa
Work
Work in any job at any skill level without restrictions
Look for Work
Take time to search for suitable employment opportunities
Start a Business
Set up your own business or work for yourself
Study
Study part-time courses (maximum 20 hours per week)
Travel
Travel in and out of the UK freely during your visa period
Bring Family
Bring your partner and children to live with you
Application Process
Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet all the requirements for the Graduate Route visa
Gather Documents
Prepare your degree certificate, passport, and other required documents
Apply Online
Submit your application through the UK government website
Biometric Information
Attend an appointment to provide your biometric information
Receive Decision
Wait for your application to be processed (usually 3 weeks)
What Next After Graduate Route?
⚠️ Important Notes
- • You must apply before your Student visa expires
- • The visa is free to apply for, but you need to pay for the Immigration Health Surcharge
- • You can extend your Graduate Route visa once if you meet certain conditions
- • Always check the official UK government website for the most current information
- • Immigration rules can change, so consult official sources regularly