Graduate Visa Applications for International Students – Immigration Solicitors Manchester
The Graduate Visa (Graduate Route) allows international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree to remain in the United Kingdom after their studies to work, gain professional experience and explore future immigration options.
Previously known as the Post Study Work Visa, this route provides graduates with the opportunity to begin their careers in the UK without requiring sponsorship from an employer.
At TM Fortis Solicitors, our experienced immigration solicitors provide specialist advice and assistance with Graduate Visa applications, helping international graduates understand their options and prepare successful applications.
What Is the UK Graduate Visa?
The Graduate Visa is an immigration route that allows international students who have completed an eligible course in the UK to remain in the country after finishing their studies.
The visa allows graduates to:
- Live in the United Kingdom
- Work in most types of employment
- Be self-employed or start a business
- Gain professional experience in the UK
- Consider switching to other immigration routes
Importantly, the Graduate Visa does not require employer sponsorship, which provides greater flexibility for graduates starting their careers.
Graduate Visa Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the UK Graduate Visa, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.
Applicants must:
- Be present in the UK at the time of the application
- Hold a valid Student Visa or Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
- Have successfully completed an eligible UK degree or course
- Have studied at a recognised UK education provider
- Have their education provider confirm to the Home Office that the course has been successfully completed
The university or college must notify the Home Office that the student has completed the course before the visa application can be granted.
Length of the Graduate Visa
The length of the Graduate Visa depends on the level of qualification completed.
Graduates may be granted permission to remain in the UK for:
- Up to 2 years for graduates with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree applying on or before 31 December 2026
- 18 months for Bachelor’s or Master’s graduates applying from 1 January 2027
- 3 years for graduates who have completed a PhD or doctoral qualification
During this period, graduates are free to work and gain professional experience in the UK.
Work Opportunities on the Graduate Visa
The Graduate Visa provides significant flexibility in terms of employment.
Visa holders may:
- Work full-time or part-time
- Work in any sector or role
- Be self-employed
- Start a business
- Work at any skill level
However, this visa is temporary and cannot be extended directly.
Graduates who wish to remain in the UK long term may need to switch to another immigration route, such as the Skilled Worker Visa.
Switching to Other UK Visa Routes
Many graduates use the Graduate Visa as a stepping stone to other UK immigration routes.
After gaining work experience, graduates may be able to switch to routes such as:
These routes may eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and permanent settlement in the United Kingdom.
Evidence Required for a Graduate Visa Application
Applicants must provide documentation confirming that they meet the requirements of the Graduate Route.
This may include:
- A valid passport or identity document
- Evidence of Student Visa status
- Confirmation from the education provider that the course has been completed
- Biometric information where required
The Home Office will verify the completion of the course with the education provider before granting the visa.
Why Seek Legal Advice for a Graduate Visa?
Although the Graduate Visa is relatively straightforward compared to some other immigration routes, applicants must still ensure that the requirements are met.
Legal advice can help ensure that:
- The eligibility requirements are satisfied
- Supporting documentation is correct
- Future immigration options are considered
Proper planning can help graduates transition to a long-term immigration route in the UK.
How Our Immigration Solicitors Can Help
Our immigration solicitors provide expert assistance with Graduate Visa applications and post-study immigration planning.
We assist clients with:
- Assessing eligibility for the Graduate Visa
- Preparing and submitting visa applications
- Advising on switching to other UK visa routes
- Planning long-term settlement options in the UK
Our aim is to help international graduates make the most of the opportunities available under the Graduate Route.
Contact Our Immigration Solicitors
If you have recently completed your studies in the UK and wish to apply for a Graduate Visa, our experienced immigration solicitors can assist you throughout the process.
Contact TM Fortis Solicitors today on 0161 220 6040 to discuss your circumstances and obtain expert legal advice.
