UK Graduate Visa (Formerly Known as PSW Visa)

Graduate Visa Overview: Post‑Study Work without Sponsorship

The Graduate Visa, previously known as the post‑study work (PSW) visa, provides international students with a valuable opportunity to stay in the UK following graduation without the need for sponsorship. This unsponsored visa allows those who have completed a UK undergraduate or master’s degree to stay for two years, while PhD graduates will be granted a three‑year visa. The visa does not directly lead to settlement, but it offers a crucial period to gain work experience, switch to Global Talent routes, or sponsored routes like the Skilled Worker visas, or even pursue entrepreneurial aspirations through the Innovator Founder visa.

What is the Successful Completion Requirement of the UK Graduate Visa?

To be eligible, applicants must be present in the UK on a valid Student visa and have completed their course of study at a UK Higher Education Provider with a demonstrated compliance history. The institutions must also have formally notified the Home Office of successful course completion by the date of application. 

How Much Does it Cost to apply for a Graduate Visa?

The application process is carried out online. The visa application fee is £880, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is typically £1,035 per year, amounting to £2,070 for a two‑year visa or £3,105 for a three‑year visa. If the applicant’s studies were funded by a government or international scholarship agency covering both fees and living costs within the last 12 months, written consent from that sponsor is required.

Once submitted, UKVI typically issues a decision within eight weeks, though priority or super‑priority services may be available for an additional fee . Applicants can only be granted the visa under the graduate route once.

UK Graduate Visa: Work Rights and Study Restrictions

Applicants enjoy unrestricted work rights, including full-time, part-time, self‑employment, volunteering, except for professional sport activities. Applicants can also study subject to ATAS condition. This route is unsponsored, meaning holders are free to change jobs without needing to switch visa categories until the Graduate Route visa expires.

Dependants of a Graduate Visa Holder

Dependants currently in the UK as part of the applicant’s Student visa may apply to extend their leave under the Graduate route, but no new dependants can be added. Each dependant must apply separately, pay the application fee, and meet relationship or age requirements. Their leave will expire alongside the main applicant’s visa.

How Angelov Solicitors Can Help?

Our team provides expert legal guidance on all aspects of the Graduate route. We advise on applicants’ and their dependants’ eligibility, assisting with compiling supporting documents and drafting online applications.

The May 2025 Immigration White Paper proposes reducing the Graduate visa duration from two to 18 months, we are monitoring the policy developments so you can plan your immigration journey with confidence.