The Graduate Visa (UK) is a great visa that allows foreign students who completed their studies in the UK to remain in the UK and work. It is a visa that lets the graduate stay, work, and seek employment in the UK once their degree is complete. As a recent graduate or a graduate student, you will learn all about the Graduate Visa and the application process in this guide.
What is the Graduate Visa?
Graduate Visa – The Graduate Visa was launched on 1 July 2021 and is designed for international students who have achieved a UK Bachelor’s or Postgraduate degree to remain in the UK to work. This visa is for students who have graduated from a UK institution accredited by the UK Home Office.
Who Can Apply for the Graduate Visa?
For a Graduate Visa: You will have to satisfy these minimum qualifications:
- You need to have graduated from a UK undergraduate or postgraduate qualification (or another qualifying degree).
- Ensure that you have a Student Visa (or Tier 4 visa) for studying in the UK.
- You need your educational institution (university or college) to be a registered sponsor and you have had compliance in the past.
- You can only apply from the UK, you can not apply outside the UK.
What Courses Fit the Graduate Visa?
Graduate Visa: This visa is only for students who completed one of the following courses:
- UK Bachelor’s Degree
- UK Postgraduate Degree (e.g. Master’s, PhD)
Other specific courses, such as:
- England and Wales Law Conversion Courses/Law Practice Courses:- Law Conversion Courses or Legal Practice Courses are the Law Courses in England and Wales.
- Foundations programs in Medicine or Dentistry.
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- Level 4 Professional degrees in the UK (e.g. healthcare, law, etc.)
If you have taken a course that would pass these criteria, then you may be a Graduate Visa candidate.
Duration of the Graduate Visa
- PhD holders: 3 years in the UK for you.
- Other graduates: You can stay in the UK for 2 years.
Note: This visa does not lead to settlement (long-term residence). But then you could shift to other visas such as Skilled Worker Visa and settle later.
COVID-19 Concessions for Students
Since COVID-19 was a factor, there are provisional regulations for those students who had to study online:
- You may still qualify for the Graduate Visa if you began in 2020/2021 and arrived in the UK before certain dates, even if you studied part of your studies on the Internet.
What Are The Advantages of the Graduate Visa?
- Employed in the UK: You are exempt from working in the UK while your visa is valid.
- You can Apply For A Job: You can apply for a job that is related to your work objective and accumulate your experience.
- Flexible Visa: You can choose to work in any sector and have work experience in the UK with the Graduate Visa.
Guide to Graduate Visa Application: How to Apply for Graduate Visa?
The Graduate Visa is for you if:
- Online application: You will have to apply online at the Home Office website and upload your documents.
- Biometrics: You will have to submit a photo and fingerprints during application.
- Files: Attach your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter, degree completion documents, and other files.
Fees for the Graduate Visa
- Application fee: £700
- Biometric enrolment fee: £19.20
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year Immigration Health Surcharge: £160 £1100.
Graduate Visa: A fantastic chance for international students who have already graduated from studies in the UK to work in the UK for two years (three for PhD graduates). This visa will give you work experience, employment, and the start of your career in the UK.
For any application queries related to the Graduate Visa, or to find out more, Law and Visas can walk you through the process. Ask for expert help and guidance.
