Post-study work opportunities in the UK: Graduate Route visa explained
Find out how international students can stay and work in the UK with the Graduate Route visa. Learn about eligibility, benefits, the application process, and future visa pathways.
Congratulations on completing your studies in the UK! Whether you've been immersed in the vibrant academic life of London or experienced the charm of cities like Edinburgh or Manchester, you're likely thinking about your next steps. For many international graduates, staying on to work in the UK is an exciting yet complex prospect. Enter the Graduate Route visa - a pathway designed to help you transition from student life to the professional world in the UK.
What is the Graduate Route visa?
Introduced in July 2021, the Graduate Route visa allows international students who have successfully completed an eligible course in the UK to stay and work, or look for work, after graduation. As of June 2025, the visa permits:
Up to two years of stay for bachelor's or master's degree holders.
Up to three years for PhD or other doctoral graduates.
This unsponsored visa means you don't need a job offer to apply, offering flexibility to explore various employment opportunities across different sectors.
Who is eligible to apply?
To qualify for the Graduate Route visa, you must:
Complete a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible course.
Have studied at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.
Apply from within the UK before your current Student visa expires.
Have your education provider confirm to the Home Office that you've successfully completed your course.
It's important to note that remote learning may affect eligibility. Ensure you meet the in-country study requirements.
What can you do on this visa?
The Graduate Route visa offers considerable flexibility:
Work in most jobs at any skill level.
Be self-employed or undertake voluntary work.
Switch jobs without needing sponsorship.
Travel freely in and out of the UK.
However, you cannot:
Extend the Graduate Route visa beyond its initial period.
Bring new dependents unless they are already in the UK as your dependents.
Access public funds.
This visa does not count towards settlement, but time spent on it can contribute to the 10-year long residence route.
There’s some things to keep in mind
You knew there’d be a catch, right? While the Graduate Route visa is pretty generous, there are a few important things to remember:
You can’t extend this visa - once your two or three years are up, you’ll need to switch to a different visa type if you want to keep working.
It’s not a direct path to settlement (permanent residency), but it can be a stepping stone - many graduates move onto work visas that eventually lead to settlement.
You must apply within the UK - applying from outside the UK isn’t allowed for this route.
If you completed your course before the Graduate Route was introduced in 2021, sorry, you don’t qualify.
How to apply?
Here's a step-by-step guide:
Course completion: Ensure your education provider has confirmed your course completion to the Home Office.
Application timing: Apply before your current student visa expires.
Online application: Submit your application through the official UK website.
Biometric information: Depending on your nationality and the documents you provide, you may need to attend a biometric appointment or use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app.
Await decision: Most applicants receive a decision within 8 weeks.
Costs:
Application fee: £822
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
For an 18-month visa, the total cost would be approximately £2,379.
Transitioning to other visas
The Graduate Route visa is non-extendable and does not count towards settlement. However, it can serve as a stepping stone to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which can lead to permanent residency.
To transition:
Secure a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor.
Ensure the job meets the skill and salary requirements set by the Home Office.
Making the most of your Graduate Route visa
To maximise the benefits of your time on the Graduate Route visa:
Network proactively: Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with alumni.
Utilise university resources: Leverage career services for job placements and internships.
Enhance your CV: Engage in volunteer work or short-term projects to build experience.
Stay informed: Keep abreast of changes in immigration policies and visa regulations.
Common questions
Can I bring my family?
Dependants are only eligible if they are already in the UK as dependents of your Student visa. New dependents cannot join you under the Graduate Route visa.
Can I switch to a different visa after the Graduate Route?
Yes, you can switch to another visa category, such as the Skilled Worker visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
What if my course was affected by COVID-19?
The UK government has provided specific guidance for students whose studies were impacted by the pandemic. It's advisable to consult the latest information or speak with your university's international office.
Final thoughts
The Graduate Route visa offers international graduates a valuable opportunity to gain work experience in the UK, explore different career paths, and lay the groundwork for a potential long-term stay. By understanding the visa's provisions and planning accordingly, you can make informed decisions about your future in the UK.
For more detailed information and to apply, visit the official UK Graduate visa website.
Ready to take the next step?
If you want to stay and build your future in the UK, keep an eye on application deadlines, gather your documents, and prepare to make the most of the Graduate Route visa.
Remember, the UK is full of opportunities — all you need is a little patience, a dash of persistence, and yes, the right visa.
Good luck! And if you have any questions or need help navigating your journey, Prodigy Finance is just a click away.
