Graduate Visa

Graduate Visa

The Graduate Visa allows international students who have successfully completed a degree in the UK to stay and work for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates). This visa is designed to provide graduates the opportunity to gain work experience in the UK without requiring a job offer or sponsorship from an employer.

With a Graduate Visa, you can work in most jobs or look for work without restrictions. You may also switch to other long-term visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, if you meet the relevant requirements. The visa is not extendable, but it offers flexibility in exploring opportunities in the UK labour market.

For further details, you can refer to the official UK government guidance on the Graduate Visa.

Graduate Visa Q&A

  1. What is a Graduate Visa?

The Graduate Visa is a UK visa that allows international students who have completed an eligible UK degree to stay in the UK to work or look for work for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates). It provides graduates with the flexibility to take on various roles without the need for employer sponsorship.

  1. What are the eligibility criteria for the Graduate Visa?

To be eligible for the Graduate Visa, you must:

  • Have completed a UK degree or other eligible qualification at an approved UK higher education provider.
  • Be in the UK when you apply.
  • Hold a valid Tier 4 or Student Visa at the time of your application.
  • Have successfully completed your course.
  1. How long can I stay in the UK with a Graduate Visa?
  • For most graduates, the visa allows you to stay in the UK for 2 years.
  • If you have completed a PhD or other doctoral qualification, you can stay for 3 years.
  1. Can I bring dependants to the UK on a Graduate Visa?

You can only bring dependants if they are already in the UK on your Student Visa as your partner or child. If you are applying for the Graduate Visa, your dependants must apply to extend their stay as well.

  1. What jobs can I do with a Graduate Visa?

With a Graduate Visa, there are no restrictions on the type of work you can do. You can:

  • Work in any job or industry.
  • Be self-employed or start your own business.
  • Take on temporary work or freelance opportunities.
  1. Can I extend the Graduate Visa?

No, the Graduate Visa cannot be extended. However, you can switch to a different visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, if you find a job that meets the criteria and the employer can sponsor you. You may also switch to other visa categories depending on your circumstances.

  1. How do I apply for the Graduate Visa?

To apply for the Graduate Visa, you must:

  1. Complete the online application on the official UK government website.
  2. Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
  3. Provide biometric information (fingerprints and a digital photo).
  4. Ensure your university or education provider has informed the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course.
  1. How much does the Graduate Visa cost?

The current application fee for the Graduate Visa is £822. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1035 per year of your stay in the UK.

  1. Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to another visa category?

Yes, you can switch to other visa categories such as the Skilled Worker Visa if you meet the eligibility criteria. You will need to find a job with a licensed employer who can sponsor your application.

Setting Up Your Own Business on a Graduate Visa: Self-Sponsorship Option

If you are considering setting up your own business while on the Graduate Visa, self-sponsorship can be a viable option for you to extend your stay in the UK. As a self-sponsored entrepreneur, you can set up your own company in the UK and sponsor yourself for a Skilled Worker Visa. This allows you to transition from the Graduate Visa to a more secure, long-term visa without needing external sponsorship.

Self-sponsorship involves establishing your business, meeting the financial and operational requirements, and applying for a Skilled Worker Visa with your own business as the sponsor. This provides greater flexibility and control over your stay in the UK while running your business.

  1. How can Kaya Legal assist with your Graduate Visa application?

At Kaya Legal, we provide expert legal guidance and support throughout the Graduate Visa application process. We can help you:

  • Understand the eligibility criteria and ensure you meet all the requirements for a successful application.
  • Prepare and submit your application, ensuring all necessary documents are correctly provided.
  • Provide support with dependent applications, ensuring your family members can extend their stay with you.
  • Offer advice on switching to other visa categories once your Graduate Visa expires, such as the Skilled Worker Visa or Innovator Founder Visa.

If you are considering starting your own business, we can also guide you through the self-sponsorship process, helping you transition from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa by sponsoring yourself through your own company. This will allow you to continue your business operations in the UK while benefiting from long-term residency options.

Our team of experienced immigration lawyers provides clear and reliable advice tailored to your individual circumstances, ensuring your visa application or business plans run smoothly.