Knowledge Guide

UK Post Study Work Visa: The Complete 2025 Guide

The UK Graduate Route, how it works, how long it lasts, what comes after, and how to use it to build a career in the UK.

UK Graduate Route

The UK Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route)

The Graduate Route, launched in July 2021, allows international students who complete a degree at a UK university to stay and work in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) without needing employer sponsorship. You can work in any sector, at any level, change jobs freely, and use the time to find a graduate-level role before transitioning to a Skilled Worker visa.

Key point: The Graduate Route does not count toward the 5 years needed for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Only time on a qualifying work visa like the Skilled Worker visa counts toward settlement.

You must have
  • Completed a degree at a UK university with Track Record of Compliance status
  • A valid Student visa at the point of application
  • Confirmation from your university that your degree is complete
Duration
  • Bachelor's or master's graduates: 2 years
  • PhD or doctoral graduates: 3 years
  • No renewal - it is a one-time visa
  • Application cost: £700 plus Immigration Health Surcharge
1
Wait for official confirmation from your university

You cannot apply until your university has officially confirmed you have completed your programme. Most universities confirm this within a few weeks of your final results.

2
Apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration portal

Complete the Graduate visa application online. You will need your passport, BRP if you have one, and your university confirmation letter.

3
Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge

The application fee is £700. The IHS is £776 per year - for a 2-year visa this is £1,552 in addition to the application fee.

4
Receive your decision

Standard processing time is up to 8 weeks. If you applied before your Student visa expired, you can continue working under your Student visa conditions while you wait.

What happens after

Options when your Graduate Route ends

Skilled Worker Visa

The most common next step. If you have a job offer from a UK employer paying at least £26,200 or the going rate for the role, you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa. This can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years.

Further study

If you want to pursue a PhD after a master's, or take a professional qualification, you can apply for a new Student visa. The Graduate Route time does not count toward permanent residency.

Global Talent or Innovator Founder

If you have exceptional ability or a genuine business idea, these alternative visa routes may apply without the salary threshold requirement of the Skilled Worker route.

Leave the UK

If you have not secured another qualifying visa before your Graduate Route expires, you must leave the UK. The Graduate Route cannot be extended or renewed.

We help you find a sponsored job and transition to a Skilled Worker visa before your Graduate Route runs out.

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Common questions

Graduate Route FAQ

Can I apply before my degree is officially confirmed?
No. You must wait until your university has officially confirmed completion. Most universities confirm this within a few weeks of final results.
Can I work while my Graduate Route application is being processed?
Yes. If you applied before your Student visa expired, you can continue working under your Student visa conditions while you wait. Standard processing time is up to 8 weeks.
Can I be self-employed on the Graduate Route?
Yes. You can be self-employed, set up a company, freelance, or consult alongside regular employment. You can also combine employment and self-employment at the same time.
Does Graduate Route time count toward Indefinite Leave to Remain?
No. Time spent on the Graduate Route does not count toward the 5 years required for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Only time spent on a qualifying work visa such as the Skilled Worker visa counts toward settlement.
When should I start my job search?
Start during the final year of your degree, not after graduation. Build your target list of employers on the Home Office sponsor register in your field. The Graduate Route gives you two years but the job market is competitive.