Riddhi Mevada
Oct 30, 2026
UK Graduate Route Visa 2026: Eligibility, Fees & the 18-Month Change
Quick answer: The Graduate visa lets you stay in the UK to work or look for work after a UK degree. Bachelor's and master's graduates get 2 years if they apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months if they apply on or after 1 January 2027. PhD graduates keep 3 years. The change depends on your application date, not your graduation date.
What Is the UK Graduate Route Visa?
The Graduate visa, often called the Graduate Route or UK post-study work visa, allows international students who have completed an eligible UK course to stay and work, look for work or be self-employed. You do not need a job offer or a sponsor to apply. It cannot be extended, but it can give you time to move onto another visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa.
How Long Is the Graduate Visa in 2026 and 2027?
| Qualification | Apply on or before 31 Dec 2026 | Apply on or after 1 Jan 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 2 years | 18 months |
| Master's degree | 2 years | 18 months |
| PhD or other doctorate | 3 years | 3 years (not affected) |
The shorter duration was first announced in the government's May 2025 immigration white paper and applies to applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027.
Does the 18-Month Change Depend on When You Graduate?
No. What matters is the date your Graduate visa application is submitted. A student who completes their course in late 2026 but submits the application on 2 January 2027 would fall under the 18-month rule, while one who submits on 31 December 2026 would still get 2 years. If you are close to the deadline, plan your timing with your university's international office.
Who Is Eligible for the UK Graduate Visa?
- You must be in the UK when you apply.
- Your current visa must be a Student visa (or Tier 4 student visa).
- You must have completed an eligible UK bachelor's, postgraduate or other qualifying course.
- Your university must have told the Home Office that you successfully completed your course.
- You must apply before your Student visa expires.
You do not need to wait for your graduation ceremony or certificate. You can apply once your university has reported your successful completion.
How Much Does the UK Graduate Visa Cost?
| Cost | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | GBP 937 | Per applicant |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | Usually GBP 1,035 per year | Paid for each year of the visa; confirm the exact amount at application |
Fees change regularly, so check the current amounts on GOV.UK before you pay. Service charges from consultants or translators are separate.
How to Apply for the Graduate Visa Step by Step
- Finish your course and confirm with your university that completion has been reported to the Home Office.
- Apply online from inside the UK before your Student visa expires.
- Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Prove your identity at an appointment if asked, which can delay a decision.
- Wait for your decision. It usually takes about 8 weeks, and you can stay in the UK while you wait.
What Can You Do on the Graduate Visa?
- Work in most jobs, with no sponsor needed
- Look for work or be self-employed
- Do unpaid voluntary work for certain organisations
- Travel abroad and return to the UK
You cannot access most public funds or the State Pension, work as a professional sportsperson, or study a course that is eligible for a Student visa.
What Happens After the Graduate Visa Ends?
The visa cannot be extended. To stay longer, you must switch to another route, such as a Skilled Worker visa, if you meet its requirements, including a sponsoring employer and the required salary and skill level. With a shorter 18-month window for many graduates from 2027, start your job search and employer conversations during your final year.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying after your Student visa has expired
- Assuming your graduation date decides the visa length
- Leaving the UK before applying
- Waiting for the certificate when completion has already been reported
- Not budgeting for the fee and health surcharge
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the Graduate visa from India?
No. You must be in the UK on a Student visa when you apply.
Can my family join me?
Partners and children may be able to apply if they are eligible, usually where they are already in the UK with you. Check the current dependant rules on GOV.UK or ask a consultant.
Is the Graduate visa the same as a work permit?
It gives you permission to work in most jobs, but it is not tied to one employer, and it does not count as a Skilled Worker visa.
Can I work while waiting for a decision?
You can stay in the UK while you wait. Check your work conditions on your current Student visa until the Graduate visa is granted.
Planning to Study in the UK?
Volumaax helps you choose the right UK course and plan your visa steps from admission to your post-study options.
Talk to a UK Visa ExpertRelated Guides
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Visa rules, fees and dates change; verify all details on the official UK Government website (gov.uk) before applying. Volumaax is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with the UK Government.
