Graduate Visa
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 730 days
- Processing time
- 8 weeks
- Fee
- £880
- Validity
- 2 years (3 years for PhD/doctoral; 18 months from 1 Jan 2027)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For international students who have completed an eligible UK degree on a Student visa. Must apply from within the UK before Student visa expires. Cannot be extended. 2 years stay if applying on or before 31 December 2026, 18 months from 1 January 2027, 3 years for PhD/doctoral qualifications. Education provider must have notified the Home Office of course completion. Healthcare surcharge: £1,035 per year.
Eligibility
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Visa history
Must currently hold a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa in the UK
Required history: Current Student visa or Tier 4 (General)
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Purpose of visit
Must have successfully completed an eligible UK bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree
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Employment
Education provider must have confirmed course completion to the Home Office. Must have studied in the UK for the minimum required duration
Required status: Completed eligible UK degree
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
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Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/apply; Location: UK Immigration: ID Check app or service point
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: £880
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Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.
Must be current: No; Must be original: Yes
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Health surcharge
Amount: £1,035 per year (£2,070 for 2 years, £3,105 for 3 years); Applicant category: Main applicant and dependants
How to apply
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Document gathering
Ensure your education provider has reported your course completion to the Home Office. Gather your passport and Student visa/BRP details
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Online application
Apply online for the Graduate visa from within the UK before your Student visa expires
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Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
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Biometrics
Prove your identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app or attend a service point
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Processing wait
Wait for a decision on your application