Graduates Visa

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Overview

The Graduate visa in the UK allows international students who have completed an eligible course at a UK higher education institution to stay in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after they have finished their studies. Here are the key points about this visa route:

Eligibility Requirements:

Completion of an Eligible Course:

  • You must have completed a degree at the undergraduate level or above (such as a bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible qualifications).
  • The course must be from a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.

Current Visa Status:

  • You must be in the UK on a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa at the time of your application.

Application Timing:

You must apply before your current Student visa expires.

    Duration of the Visa

    • Bachelor’s or master’s Degree Holders: The visa is granted for 2 years.
    • PhD or Other Doctoral Qualification Holders: The visa is granted for 3 years

    Work Rights:

    • You are allowed to work in most jobs.
    • You can look for work or be self-employed.
    • You cannot work as a professional sportsperson.

    Application Process

    • Online Application: You need to apply online through the UK government’s visa application portal.
    • Payment: Pay the application fee of £822 and the healthcare surcharge, which is £1035 per year.
    • Biometrics: Provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph.

    Additional Conditions

    • The Graduate visa does not directly lead to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK.
    • You can switch to another visa route, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if you meet the eligibility criteria for that visa.
    Dependants
    • Dependants who are already in the UK as your dependants on a student visa can apply to stay as dependants on your Graduate visa

    Post-Visa Opportunities

    • This visa provides an opportunity to gain work experience in the UK.
    • After the Graduate visa expires, you can switch to other types of visas if you qualify, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which could eventually lead to settlement.

    FAQ (Frequently asked questions):

    What is the Graduate visa?

    The Graduate visa allows international students who have completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider to stay in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to work or look for work.

    Who is eligible for the Graduate visa?
    • You must have completed a degree at the undergraduate level or above at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.
    • You must be in the UK on a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa when you apply.
    Can I apply for the Graduate visa from outside the UK?

    No, you must be in the UK on a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa to apply.

    How do I apply for the Graduate visa?

    You need to apply online through the UK government’s visa application portal, pay the application fee, and provide your biometric information.

    What is the application fee for the Graduate visa?
    • The application fee is £822.
    • And the Health Surcharge Fee is £1035.
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