Stay and work in the UK after your studies. Our immigration lawyers guide you from start to finish.
The Graduate Route Visa allows international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree to remain in the UK to work, seek employment, or gain professional experience without needing sponsorship. This is a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your career, gain UK work exposure, and plan your long-term immigration journey.
Expert Support for Graduate Route Visas
This visa route is designed to give UK graduates the freedom to stay and work after completing their studies. Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, no job offer or sponsor licence is required.
Once your Graduate Visa is approved, you can work in any sector at any skill level, giving you the flexibility to explore opportunities and prepare for your next immigration step.
Key Benefits:
- No sponsorship required – freedom to work for any employer, at any level
- 2-year visa (3 years for PhD graduates)
- Switching flexibility – you can later switch into a Skilled Worker visa or another eligible route
- Dependants allowed (if they were already in the UK as your dependants under the Student visa)
- Full work rights – no restrictions on salary level or sector
- Pathway to long-term settlement – while the Graduate Route itself doesn’t lead to ILR, it gives time to secure a Skilled Worker role or another qualifying visa
Application Process
- Complete your degree at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.
- Submit your online application via the Home Office portal.
- Provide biometrics and documentation (valid passport, BRP, CAS, etc.).
- Wait for a decision – typically within 8 weeks.
Common Concerns from Applicants
- Do I need a sponsor? → No, this visa is unsponsored.
- Does it count towards ILR? → No, but it’s a stepping stone to routes that do.
- Can I extend it? → The Graduate Route cannot be extended; you must switch into another visa category before expiry.
- What if I don’t find a job immediately? → You can remain in the UK for the full visa duration regardless of employment status.
Why Choose Us?
Our team helps graduates navigate their next steps with confidence. Whether you plan to use the Graduate Route as a stepping stone to the Skilled Worker visa, set up your own business later, or transition into settlement, we provide strategic legal guidance tailored to your future goals.
faq
Frequently asked questions
Yes, concessions exist for remote study periods during the pandemic. We can advise based on your study timeline.
Only if they were already dependants on your Student Visa. New dependants cannot be added.
Yes. Once you secure a qualifying job with a licensed sponsor, you can switch without leaving the UK.
Home Office application fee + IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge) apply. Our team will provide a transparent breakdown of all costs, including our legal fees.
- 2 years for Bachelor’s/Master’s graduates
- 3 years for PhD graduates