UK Graduate Route Visa: Stay On After You Graduate
A 2-year work visa for international students who complete a bachelor's or master's degree in the UK: application, requirements and tips.
The Graduate Route gives students who successfully complete an eligible course at a UK higher education provider (HEP) the right to work freely for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).
No sponsorship is required — you can work for any employer, in any role, or start your own business.
When to apply: After your university has reported your successful completion to UKVI, and before your Student (formerly Tier 4) visa expires.
Cost: Visa fee £880 + Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year.
While on the Graduate Route, you can switch to longer-term visas such as Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder — which opens the path to ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
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