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The UK Graduate Route visa allows international students who have completed an eligible degree in the United Kingdom to stay and work in the UK after graduation.?It is a popular post-study option because it does not require employer sponsorship and provides flexible work rights.
This article explains what the Graduate Route visa is, who can apply, how long it lasts, and key conditions to know before applying.
1. What Is the Graduate Route Visa?
The Graduate Route is a post-study work visa introduced by the UK government to help international graduates gain work experience after completing their studies.
It allows eligible graduates to:
• Live in the UK after completing their course
• Work in most jobs, at any skill level
• Be self-employed or change employers freely
The visa is not tied to a specific employer.
2. How Long Is the Graduate Route Visa Valid?
The duration depends on the level of qualification completed:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: 2 years
• PhD or doctoral qualification: 3 years
The Graduate Route cannot be extended, but it may be used to switch to other long-term work visas.
3. Who Is Eligible for the Graduate Route Visa?
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following conditions:
A. Completed an Eligible UK Qualification
You must have successfully completed one of the following in the UK:
• Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s degree
• PhD or other doctoral qualification
• Certain professional qualifications
B. Held a Valid Student Visa
You must:
• Have studied in the UK on a Student visa
• Have that visa still valid at the time of application
C. Confirmation From Your University
Your education provider must:
• Confirm to the UK authorities that you have successfully completed your course
You cannot apply until this confirmation is made.
D. Apply From Within the UK
Applications must be submitted inside the UK.?You cannot apply from abroad.
4. Work Rights Under the Graduate Route
Graduate Route visa holders can:
• Work full-time or part-time
• Work at any skill or salary level
• Be self-employed or freelance
• Switch jobs freely
Restrictions
You cannot:
• Work as a professional sportsperson
• Access public funds
5. Can You Switch From the Graduate Route to a Work Visa?
Yes.
While the Graduate Route itself does not lead directly to settlement, it allows time to gain UK work experience and later switch to visas such as:
• Skilled Worker visa
• Global Talent visa
• Innovator Founder visa
Time spent on the Graduate Route does not count toward UK permanent residence.
6. Application Fee and Health Surcharge
Applicants must pay:
• Visa application fee
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for the full duration of the visa
Fees must be paid at the time of application.
7. Common Reasons for Refusal
Graduate Route applications may be refused if:
• The course has not been officially completed
• The university has not confirmed completion
• The application is submitted after the Student visa expires
• False or incorrect information is provided
Key Takeaway
The UK Graduate Route visa offers international graduates a valuable opportunity to stay and work in the UK without sponsorship after completing their studies.?It is ideal for gaining experience and transitioning to long-term work visas, but it is time-limited and non-extendable.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.?UK immigration rules may change, and individual circumstances vary. Always consult official UK government guidance before applying.
December 23, 2025
