Graduate Visa UK (Post-Study Work)
A Graduate visa gives you permission to stay in the UK for at least 2 years after successfully completing a course in the UK. You must be in the UK when you apply.
The Graduate route has replaced the Doctorate Extension Scheme and international students who have a PhD or other doctoral qualification will be able to stay for at least 3 years. This visa is a post-study work visa that gives you the right to both live and work in the UK.
The Graduate Visa cannot be extended but if you wish to remain in the UK after your visa expires you could be eligible to switch to the Skilled Worker Visa instead.
If you need legal advice or help with a UK visa application or any other immigration matter, get in touch with our highly experienced immigration solicitors in London on 0203 432 6006 or fill in our online enquiry form.
Eligibility requirements
You can apply for a Graduate visa if all of the following are true:
- you're in the UK
- your current visa is a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
- you studied a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible courses for a minimum period of time with your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
- your education provider (such as your university or college) has told the Home Office you've successfully completed your course
You can ask your education provider if you're not sure whether they've told the Home Office you've successfully completed your course.
You must meet all other requirements depending on your circumstances.
Supporting documents
When you apply you'll need to provide:
- a valid passport or other travel documents that shows your identity and nationality
- your biometric residence permit (BRP), if you were given one when you applied for your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
- your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number from when you applied for your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
Your CAS reference number was sent to you by your education provider when they offered you a place on the course you completed with your Student visa. If you cannot find it, ask your education provider what it is.
This is a general list of documents. You must provide all other supporting documents depending on your circumstances.
Your partner and children
If your partner and children joined you in the UK as 'dependants' on your current Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa, they can apply to stay as dependants as on your Graduate visa. If your child was born in the UK during your current Student or Tier 4 (General) student visa, they can also apply. If their application is successful, their visa will end on the same date as yours.
Why choose Western Solicitors
- Expertise: Our solicitors are legal experts in the field of immigration law and have years of experience in handling immigration cases.
- In-depth knowledge: Our immigration solicitors keep up to date with the latest changes and developments in immigration law. This means they can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate advice on your specific immigration issue.
- Support: We will provide you with the necessary support and guidance throughout the immigration process. We will advise you on any legal requirements or potential obstacles that may arise.
- One-stop service: We will advise you about eligibility criteria, requirements, and required supporting documents. We will prepare your whole application and submit it to the Home Office.
- Time-saving: Applying for any type of visa or citizenship can be a complex and time-consuming process. By using our service, you can rest assured that your application will be prepared and submitted correctly, saving you time and stress.
- Better chance of success: We can help you to present your case effectively which can maximize your chances of success.