UK Graduate Visa
Eligibility Criteria for a UK Graduate Visa
To apply for the Graduate Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
Residency
You must be in the UK at the time of application.
Current Visa Type
You should have a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa.
Course Completion
You must have studied a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible course for a specific minimum period with your Student or Tier 4 (General) student visa.
Course Success Confirmation
Your education provider (e.g., university or college) must have informed the Home Office of your successful course completion.
Note: If you are uncertain about the communication between your education provider and the Home Office regarding your course completion, consult with your education provider directly.
If you are not eligible for a Graduate Visa, explore other UK visa options that may be suitable for your situation.
Duration of the Graduate Visa
A standard Graduate Visa grants permission to stay in the UK for two years. However, if you have obtained a PhD or other doctoral qualifications, your visa will be valid for three years.
The visa’s duration commences from the day your application receives approval.
The UK Graduate Visa provides a pathway for international students to build their future in the UK after successful completion of their studies. Ensure you comply with all the specific requirements, consult with your educational provider if needed, and explore the eligibility of your course to make a successful application.
For more detailed information and personalised assistance, contact our expert immigration advisors. Fard Solicitors stands out in the field of legal expertise, thanks to our solicitor’s remarkable achievements. As a finalist for Lawyer of the Year, and having been recognized in the Sunday Telegraph as a top-rated solicitor, our commitment to excellence is clear. Our firm has not only won prestigious awards but has also been nominated for numerous others, reflecting our dedication to providing outstanding legal services.
Contact Fard Solicitors for your visa application and benefit from the expertise of a great team recognized for their legal excellence and success. Our expertise ensures your application receives the attention and care it deserves, guiding you smoothly through the process.
FAQs
No, the Graduate Visa cannot be extended. However, you may switch to a different visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa. Check other visa options here.
The application must be made before your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa expires, and after your education provider has confirmed your successful course completion to the Home Office. Graduation or certificate receipt is not required to apply.
You'll need to prove your identity and provide necessary documents. Some applicants may require an appointment, potentially extending the application time.
Typically, the decision on your Graduate Visa will be made within 8 weeks after applying online and providing required documents. You are permitted to stay in the UK while awaiting the decision.
The application fee is £715, and the healthcare surcharge is usually £624 per year. Check the total cost here.
Yes, if you're in health or adult social care, you may qualify for the Health and Care Worker visa, which has a lower cost and waives the annual health surcharge. If you've already paid the surcharge and then secure a job in public healthcare, a refund may be possible.
With a Graduate Visa, you can work, search for jobs, be self-employed, live with eligible family members, volunteer, and travel abroad. You cannot apply for most public funds, State Pension, or work as a professional sportsperson.
You can study with a Graduate Visa if the chosen course is ineligible for a Student Visa. Some subjects may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
If you work in public sector healthcare, you may be eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa instead. This alternative is cheaper, and you do not need to pay the annual immigration health surcharge.
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