A UK post-study work visa, or Graduate visa, allows international students to stay in the UK and work after they have finished their degree and is a golden ticket for those who want to kickstart their careers.
This visa is crucial because it opens doors to exciting job opportunities in one of the world's largest economies and is a chance to grow, learn, and build a future in a diverse and welcoming environment.
Learn more about why this visa is a game-changer for Indian students below. To begin your visa application or have any further questions answered about UK study, arrange a free consultation today.
Graduate Visa Guide for Indian Students
What is a Graduate Visa?
The Graduate Visa, commonly referred to as a post-study work visa, allows international students in the UK to stay and work for up to two years after completing an eligible degree. Designed to attract global talent, this visa provides graduates the opportunity to gain work experience or look for a suitable role.
Types of Post-study Work Visa in the UK
1. Graduate Visa
The Graduate Visa is the primary post-study work visa, available to international students who have successfully completed an eligible course at a UK university. This visa allows graduates to stay and work, or look for work, at any skill level in the UK for up to two years (or three years for doctoral graduates).
- Duration: Up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)
- Eligibility: Completion of a degree or eligible course at a UK institution with a track record of compliance
- Prospects: Ideal for gaining work experience, exploring the job market, or planning further studies.
2. Start-up Visa
For graduates with innovative business ideas, the Start-up Visa is an alternative. It is aimed at those looking to establish a business in the UK for the first time. Applicants must have their business idea endorsed by a recognised endorsing body, such as a university or an approved organisation. Unlike the Graduate Visa, this option is designed for individuals who want to focus on entrepreneurship.
- Duration: Up to 2 years (no extension, but can switch to an Innovator Visa)
- Eligibility: The business idea must be innovative, viable, and scalable, and endorsed by an authorised body.
- Prospects: Suitable for graduates with entrepreneurial ambitions, leading potentially to the Innovator Visa for long-term business ventures.
3. Innovator Visa
While not exclusively a post-study visa, the Innovator Visa can be a viable option for graduates who have already started their business under the Start-up Visa or have an established business idea. It is generally for more experienced businesspeople with access to investment funds (£50,000 minimum). Like the Start-up Visa, the business idea must be endorsed and meet criteria for innovation, viability, and scalability.
- Duration: 3 years, with the possibility to renew indefinitely
- Eligibility: Requires endorsement and investment, as well as a more developed business plan than the Start-up Visa
- Prospects: This visa can be a pathway to permanent residency (ILR) if certain conditions are met after 3 years.
4. Skilled Worker Visa
Graduates might consider this option if they secure a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsorship licence. The Skilled Worker Visa is aimed at those looking to work in roles that are part of the UK’s shortage occupation list or meet specific skill and salary criteria. It is a potential route to permanent residency as well, as it offers a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- Duration: Up to 5 years, with the possibility to extend and transition to ILR
- Eligibility: Requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meets minimum salary requirements (typically around £26,200 annually)
- Prospects: Ideal for those with skills in high demand within the UK job market, offering stability and a clear pathway to permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Graduate Visa, applicants must:
- Hold a valid Student visa at the time of application
- Have completed an eligible course from a recognised UK institution with a track record of compliance
- Ensure your academic provider has notified the Home Office of their successful completion
Graduate Visa Application Process
The application process for the Graduate Visa is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail to ensure all requirements are met. Here are the steps involved:
1. Confirm Eligibility and Course Completion
Before applying, ensure that your academic institution has informed the UK Home Office of your successful course completion. You should receive a formal confirmation from your institution that your results have been reported, which is essential for starting the application.
2. Complete the Online Application Form
The Graduate Visa application is completed online through the official UK government website. As part of the application, you will need to provide personal information, such as your passport details, contact information, and details of your course.
3. Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Application Fee: £822, payable online.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This is usually £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK
Both fees must be paid during the application process, and payments are non-refundable once the application is submitted.
4. Submit Required Documents
After payment, you will be prompted to upload the necessary documents. All documents should be in English or officially translated.
5. Provide Biometric Information
- Digital Photo and Fingerprints: If you have not previously provided biometric information for a UK visa, you will need to book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
- Self-upload: Some applicants may be eligible to use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan their biometric passport and avoid an in-person appointment.
6. Wait for a Decision
Processing times typically range from 8 to 12 weeks. You will receive an email with the outcome, and if approved, a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will be issued.
Required Documents
When applying for the Graduate Visa, ensure that all documents are up-to-date and valid. Here is a list of the essential documents:
1. Valid Passport or Travel Document
This must include:
- Passport number
- Expiry date
- Details of any previous travel to the UK (if applicable)
2. Confirmation of Course Completion
Issued by your UK educational institution, this document should confirm:
- The title and level of your completed course
- Your final results
- The date you completed your studies
3. Confirmation of Immigration Status
As an international student, you should provide proof of your current Student Visa. This can typically be a BRP card or a digital immigration status reference.
4. Proof of Financial Stability (if required)
While the Graduate Visa usually does not require proof of funds, certain applicants may need to demonstrate financial stability. In such cases, provide:
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover living expenses for at least 28 days (typically a minimum of £1,270).
5. Consent Letters (if required)
If any of your documents are under a different name (e.g., due to marriage), or if you have dependents joining you, you may need to submit consent letters or additional documentation explaining the relationship and dependency.
6. Digital Photo and Biometric Details
Depending on your situation, you might need to provide these in person or via the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
Graduate Visa Cost
Applying for a Graduate visa involves paying a £822 application fee. Additionally, you'll need to cover the healthcare surcharge; this is usually £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK. These costs are essential for processing your application and ensuring access to healthcare services during your stay.
Working Rights and Limitations
Full-Time Work Permissions: Graduate Visa holders can work in most jobs, allowing them to explore a broad range of career opportunities.
Part-Time Work Guidelines: Part-time work is also permitted, providing flexibility for those who may wish to pursue additional studies or training.
Self-Employment Possibilities: Graduates can engage in self-employment, freelance work, or entrepreneurial activities.
What You Can and Cannot Do with a UK Graduate Visa
You have the freedom to:
- Work in a variety of jobs
- Actively seek new employment
- Pursue self-employment ventures
- Reside in the UK with your eligible family
- Contribute through voluntary work
- Travel internationally and return to the UK
While this visa offers considerable flexibility, holders cannot:
- Work as a professional sportsperson or coach.
- Access public funds.
- Extend their Graduate Visa or switch to another visa while in the UK (unless eligible under specific categories).
Post-Visa Life in the UK
Integration into the Job Market: With the Graduate Visa, Indian students can enhance their employability by gaining UK work experience, which is often highly valued in global job markets.
Exploring Further Study Opportunities: Some graduates may wish to further their studies. Options such as the Master’s or PhD programmes could lead to additional visas tailored for extended study.
Permanent Residency Pathways: For those looking to make the UK their permanent home, pathways such as the Skilled Worker Visa or the Innovator Visa can potentially lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Apply for a Graduate Visa
Are you aspiring to study in the UK? Arrange a free consultation online or at one of our offices near you today.
FAQs
What is the cost of applying for PSW UK (Graduate Route Visa UK)?
The application for the Graduate Route Visa in the UK incurs a fee of £822. Additionally, each year of intended stay requires a healthcare surcharge, typically £1,035. This cost covers access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
Can I extend my UK post-study work visa (Graduate Route Visa UK)?
The Graduate Visa doesn't allow for an extension. It is granted for either 2 or 3 years, depending on your educational qualification.
How long does it take to receive a decision on my UK Graduate Visa application?
The processing time for a UK Graduate Visa application is approximately three weeks for those applying from outside the UK and eight weeks for applicants within the UK.
Will I receive a refund if I decide to cancel the UK PSW Visa application?
Generally, no refund is available if you choose to cancel your UK Post-Study Work (PSW) Visa application.
Can I settle in the UK if I take the Graduate Immigration Route?
You can settle in the UK with the graduation immigration route, which offers a pathway to settlement. After completing either five or three years for PhD holders, you can apply for settlement in the UK, securing a more permanent status.
What happens after two years of post-work visa in the UK?
After two years on the post-work visa (Graduate Route), you can explore transitioning to a skilled work route, allowing you to continue your residence in the UK. This offers ongoing opportunities for career progression and personal development.
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