Graduate Immigration Route For Post-Study Work

1. Graduate Immigration Route: Overview

The Graduate Immigration Route opened for applications on 1 July 2021. It enables eligible international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK course to stay in the UK to work, look for work, or be self-employed after their studies.

The route is intended for international graduates who have recently completed a qualifying course in the UK and who have, or last had, permission as a Student or Tier 4 (General) student. Applicants do not need a job offer, Certificate of Sponsorship or employer sponsorship in order to apply.

A Graduate visa lasts for 2 years for most non-doctoral applicants who apply on or before 31 December 2026, 18 months for most non-doctoral applicants who apply on or after 1 January 2027, and 3 years for applicants who have completed a PhD or other doctoral qualification.