Post Study Work Visa in the UK (Graduate Visa)

If you have completed your degree in the UK and want to stay and work after graduation, you may be eligible for the Post Study Work Visa, officially known as the Graduate visa.

The UK Graduate visa allows international students to remain in the UK after completing an eligible course to work, look for work, or gain professional experience.

This route gives you time to build your career and explore long-term visa options.

International student celebrating graduation with family support at a UK university ceremony

What Is the UK Post-Study Work Visa?

The Post Study Work Visa UK is officially called the Graduate visa. It is designed for international students who have successfully completed a degree in the UK.

You must:

  • Be in the UK when you apply
  • Hold a valid Student visa
  • Have successfully completed a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, PhD or other eligible qualification
  • Have your university confirm your completion to the Home Office

You do not need a job offer to apply.

How Long Can You Stay on the Graduate Visa?

The length of your stay depends on when you apply and your qualifications.

If you apply on or before 31 December 2026:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: up to 2 years

  • PhD or Doctoral qualification: up to 3 years

If you apply on or after 1 January 2027:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: up to 18 months

  • PhD or Doctoral qualification: up to 3 years

Your Graduate visa starts from the date your application is approved, not from your graduation date.

What Can You Do on a Post Study Work Visa?

With a Graduate visa, you can:

  • Work in most jobs at any skill level
  • Look for work
  • Change employers
  • Be self-employed
  • Do voluntary work
  • Travel in and out of the UK

You cannot:

  • Claim most public funds
  • Work as a professional sportsperson

This flexibility makes it an attractive option for students who want UK work experience after graduation.

When Should You Apply?

You must apply before your current Student visa expires.

You can apply once your university has informed the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course.

Applications are made online while you are inside the UK.

Decisions are usually made within 8 weeks.

Can You Bring Your Partner and Children?

Yes.

Your partner and children can apply to stay with you on a Graduate visa if they were already listed as your dependants on your Student visa when you switched to the Graduate visa, or if your child was born in the UK during your Student visa period.

However, new family members cannot normally join you from outside the UK on a Graduate visa if they were not already your dependants.

How Much Does the Post-Study Work Visa Cost?

When applying, you will need to pay:

  • The Graduate visa application fee

  • The Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of your visa

Fees can change, so always check the official government website before applying.

Can You Switch to Another Visa Later?

Yes.

Many students use the Graduate visa to gain UK work experience and later switch to a Skilled Worker visa if they secure a job with an approved sponsor.

This can be an important step for students who wish to build a long-term career in the UK.

In some situations, you may also be able to switch from a Graduate visa back to a Student visa if you decide to start a new course that requires Student visa sponsorship. You must meet the eligibility requirements and apply before your current visa expires.

If you are considering switching routes, it is important to understand the timing rules and course start date requirements. You can read our detailed guide on switching from the Graduate visa to a Student visa for more information.

Does the Graduate Visa Lead to Settlement?

Time spent on the Graduate visa does not directly count towards settlement.

However, you may switch into another visa category that can lead to settlement if you meet the requirements.

Planning early is important.

Frequently Asked Questions About the UK Post Study Work Visa

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?
No. You can apply without a job offer. The visa allows you to look for work after graduation.
Can I bring my dependants?
If your partner and children were already your dependants under your Student visa, they can usually extend their stay with you. You cannot normally add new dependants.
Can I study on a Graduate visa?
You can study courses that do not require a Student visa. If the course requires a Student visa, you must switch back to the Student route.
What happens if my visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a decision explaining the reason. You should seek professional advice immediately to understand your options.
What happens when my Graduate visa expires?
Before your visa expires, you must either switch to another eligible visa or leave the UK. It is important not to overstay.

Speak to a UK Education Consultant

If you are unsure whether the Post Study Work Visa is right for you, or if you need help understanding your options after graduation, speak to our team.

We support international students with clear, practical guidance at every stage of their journey.