UK Graduate Route Visa
Work in the UK for 2 years after your degree (3 years for PhD graduates) without needing employer sponsorship. For applications made on or after 1 January 2027 the standard duration reduces to 18 months, so applying by 31 December 2026 secures the full 2 years.
£937
Visa Fee
3-4 Weeks
Processing
2 Years (3 for PhD)
Duration†
Unlimited
Work Rights
†18 months for applications made on or after 1 January 2027; PhD graduates keep 3 years.
What is the Graduate Route Visa?
The Graduate Route (formerly known as the Post-Study Work visa or PSW) is a visa that allows international students who have completed a degree at a UK higher education provider to stay and work in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates). For applications made on or after 1 January 2027, the standard duration reduces to 18 months — PhD graduates keep 3 years — so applying by 31 December 2026 secures the full 2 years.
This visa is a game-changer because it doesn't require employer sponsorship - you can work for any employer, be self-employed, or look for work without restrictions. It provides the flexibility to explore career options and potentially transition to a longer-term work visa.
Benefits of Graduate Route
No Sponsorship Required
Work for any employer without needing a sponsor. Maximum flexibility in your career choices.
Unlimited Work Hours
No restrictions on working hours. Work full-time in any job at any skill level.
Switch to Skilled Worker
Can transition to Skilled Worker visa if you find a sponsored job, providing a path to settlement.
Bring Dependents
Your dependents on your Student visa can also apply for the Graduate Route.
Eligibility Requirements
You ARE Eligible If:
You Are NOT Eligible If:
Application Process
Complete Your Degree
Successfully finish your undergraduate, Master's, or PhD program at a UK university.
University Reports Completion
Your university reports your course completion to UKVI within their reporting window.
Apply Online
Submit your Graduate Route application online while still in the UK on your Student visa.
Pay Fees
Pay the visa fee (£937) and the Immigration Health Surcharge at £1,035/year for the length of your grant — £2,070 for a 2-year grant, £1,552.50 for an 18-month grant (applications from 1 January 2027). Note the Graduate Route pays the standard IHS rate, not the discounted student rate.
Biometrics
Attend a biometrics appointment or use the UK Immigration ID app.
Receive Decision
Get your visa decision within 3-4 weeks and start working!
Graduate Route Costs
The visa fee is flat, but the Immigration Health Surcharge is charged per year of your grant — so a shorter grant costs less. Both scenarios are shown below.
The 18-month figures are derived from the same £1,035/year surcharge rate shown above (£1,035 × 1.5 = £1,552.50; plus the £937 visa fee = £2,489.50). UKVI bills the surcharge in six-month blocks, so an 18-month grant is charged as one full year plus a half-year at £517.50. Fees and the surcharge rate are reviewed periodically — confirm the current figures on gov.uk before you pay.
Ready to Build Your Career in the UK?
The Graduate Route opens doors to incredible career opportunities. Let us help you navigate the visa process and plan your UK career.