UK Graduate Route Visa Explained – Post-Study Work Option
The UK Graduate Route visa, introduced in 2021, is a game-changer for international students who complete their studies in the United Kingdom. It offers graduates the opportunity to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK after finishing their degree. This visa is an excellent option for those who want to gain professional experience, build a career, or explore entrepreneurship in the UK post-study. Here’s everything you need to know about the UK Graduate Route visa in 2025.
What is the UK Graduate Route Visa?
The Graduate Route visa is a temporary work visa designed for international students who have successfully completed an eligible degree at a UK higher education provider with a Tier 4 (Student) sponsor license. It allows graduates to live and work in the UK without needing a job offer or sponsorship, providing valuable flexibility and opportunities after graduation.
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for the Graduate Route visa, you must:
- Have completed an undergraduate degree or higher (such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) from a recognized UK university.
- Have a valid Student visa at the time of application.
- Have successfully completed your course and met all academic requirements.
- Apply from within the UK before your current Student visa expires.
Duration of the Graduate Route Visa
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Graduates: Allowed to stay in the UK for 2 years after completing their studies.
- PhD Graduates: Allowed to stay for 3 years.
During this period, you can work in most jobs, switch employers, be self-employed, or even start your own business.
What Can You Do on the Graduate Route Visa?
The Graduate Route visa is highly flexible. You can:
- Work full-time or part-time in any job, with no restrictions on salary or skill level.
- Change jobs without needing a new visa or sponsorship.
- Be self-employed or start a business.
- Study further courses if you choose.
- Travel freely in and out of the UK while the visa is valid.
This freedom makes it an attractive option for graduates to gain UK work experience and build networks that can lead to longer-term career opportunities.
How to Apply for the Graduate Route Visa?
- Timing: Apply after you have received your final results confirming successful completion, and before your current Student visa expires.
- Application: Submit an online application through the UK government’s official visa website.
- Documents: Provide your biometric information, passport, and confirmation from your university that you have completed your course.
- Fees: Pay the application fee (approximately £700) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows access to the NHS during your stay.
- Decision: Most applications are processed within 8 weeks.
Important Considerations
- The Graduate Route visa is a one-time application; you cannot extend it.
- After the Graduate Route visa expires, if you want to continue working in the UK, you will need to switch to another visa type, such as the Skilled Worker visa.
- Make sure your university is on the list of approved institutions that can sponsor Student visas, as this affects eligibility.
- This visa does not lead directly to settlement but can be a stepping stone towards other work visas.
Conclusion
The UK Graduate Route visa offers a fantastic opportunity for international students to gain work experience and establish themselves professionally in the UK after graduation. Its flexibility in terms of employment and entrepreneurship makes it an attractive post-study option. If you have completed your degree and want to make the most of your UK education, understanding and applying for the Graduate Route visa should be a top priority.
Would you like assistance with your Graduate Route visa application or details on transitioning to other work visas?