UK visa & immigration service
Check your Graduate route timing and eligibility before your current Student permission expires.
- Eligibility and timing review
- Education-provider status checks
- Application preparation
The Graduate visa allows eligible international students to remain in the UK after successfully completing an eligible course. The applicant must be in the UK, hold Student or Tier 4 (General) permission and apply after the education provider has reported successful completion to the Home Office.
Applications made on or before 31 December 2026 are normally granted for two years. Applications made from 1 January 2027 are normally granted for 18 months. PhD and other doctoral graduates continue to receive three years under the current rules.
Key requirements
- The applicant is physically present in the UK
- Current Student or Tier 4 (General) permission is valid on the application date
- An eligible UK course has been successfully completed
- The education provider is a licensed sponsor with the required compliance record
- The provider has notified the Home Office of successful completion
- The application is submitted before the current permission expires
What the route allows
- Work in most jobs and look for work
- Self-employment, subject to the conditions of permission
- Travel abroad and return while the permission remains valid
- Eligible existing Student dependants may apply to remain
- Switching to another route, such as Skilled Worker, where the requirements are met
Important information
The Graduate visa cannot be extended and does not itself lead directly to settlement. Applicants who want to remain longer should assess their next route early, particularly where employer sponsorship may be required.
Regulated immigration support
Leon Advisers provides regulated immigration support tailored to the facts of each case. We explain the scope of work and professional fee before instructions begin. The Home Office makes every immigration decision and no outcome can be guaranteed.
Read the official GOV.UK Graduate visa guidance
Contact Leon Advisers to discuss your circumstances
Last reviewed: 27 August 2026.
Immigration rules and Home Office guidance can change. This page provides general information and is not a substitute for advice on your individual circumstances.
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