What is the Graduate visa?
The Graduate visa is a post-study work visa that allows international students who have completed a qualifying UK degree to live and work in the UK for 2 years, or 3 years for PhD graduates. There is no requirement to have a job offer. You can work in any job at any salary level, switch jobs freely, and work for yourself.
Which degrees qualify?
You must have completed a bachelor's degree, master's degree, PhD, foundation degree of at least 2 years, or another postgraduate qualification at RQF Level 7 or above at a UK-licensed student sponsor. Qualifications below bachelor's level do not qualify. The degree must have been studied primarily in the UK. Distance learning does not count.
When must I apply?
You must apply for the Graduate visa before your Student visa expires. You cannot apply from outside the UK. If your Student visa is expiring soon, apply as early as possible. There is no benefit to waiting. You can apply as soon as your university confirms your degree completion.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa from the Graduate visa?
Yes. The Graduate visa is commonly used as a bridge to a Skilled Worker visa. While on the Graduate visa, you can work for any employer and look for a job that meets the Skilled Worker criteria. Once you have a qualifying job offer, your employer can sponsor you for a Skilled Worker visa and you can switch without leaving the UK.
Is the Graduate visa being scrapped?
As of April 2026, the Graduate visa remains open. The Migration Advisory Committee reviewed the route in 2024 and recommended it stay open, finding no significant evidence of abuse. However, immigration policy can change, so always check the current rules on GOV.UK before applying.