UK Post-Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) 2024: A Complete Guide

The UK Post-Study Work Visa, officially known as the Graduate Route, offers international students an excellent opportunity to remain in the UK after completing their studies. Introduced to attract global talent, this visa allows graduates to gain work experience or seek employment without requiring employer sponsorship. This guide provides detailed insights into the requirements, application process, costs, and more for the Graduate Route in 2024.

The Graduate Route allows eligible international students who have completed a UK degree to stay in the UK for up to:

• Two years for most graduates.
• Three years for those completing a Ph.D. or other doctoral qualifications.

This visa is unsponsored, meaning you do not need a job offer or sponsorship from an employer. The goal is to provide graduates the flexibility to explore career opportunities or start their businesses.

To apply for the UK Graduate Route in 2024, you must meet the following requirements:

Eligibility Criteria

1. Completed a Degree in the UK:
   You must have successfully completed a bachelor's degree, master's degree, Ph.D., or another eligible qualification from a recognized UK higher education provider.

2. Student Visa Holder:
   You must currently hold a valid Student visa or Tier 4 visa at the time of your application.

3. Educational Institution:
   Your university or college must be a licensed student sponsor when you completed your course.

4. Study Period in the UK:

   • Undergraduate or Master's students: You must have studied in the UK for at least 12 months if your course lasted longer than that.
   • If your course was less than 12 months, you must have studied the entire course in the UK.

5. Valid Immigration Status:
   You must apply while residing in the UK.

• 2 Years: For bachelor's or master's degree holders.
• 3 Years: For doctoral graduates.

This visa cannot be extended; however, you can switch to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, if eligible.

The application process for the Graduate Route is straightforward and can be completed entirely online.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Documents:

   • A valid passport or other travel documents.
   • Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
   • Confirmation of Graduation from your university. Your education provider will inform the Home Office when you have completed your course, so ensure this is done before applying.

2. Submit Online Application:

   • Visit the official UK Government website to access the Graduate Route application form.
   • Complete the form and pay the fees (details below).

3. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

   • £624 per year for the visa duration. This grants you access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.

4. Biometric Verification:

   • Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to confirm your identity if eligible.
   • Alternatively, you may need to attend a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center to provide your biometrics.

5. Receive a Decision:
   Decisions are typically issued within 8 weeks.

The cost of the Graduate Route application includes:

• Application Fee: £715.
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year.

Total Example:

For a two-year visa, the total cost is approximately £1,963.

While on the Graduate Route, you can:

• Work in most jobs, regardless of skill level.
• Be self-employed or start your own business.
• Stay in the UK with dependents (if they are already in the UK as your dependents on a Student visa).

However, there are some restrictions:

• You cannot extend this visa.
• You cannot work as a professional athlete.
• You are not eligible for public funds (benefits).

Timely Application:
Ensure your application is submitted before your current Student visa expires.

Ph.D. Graduates:
A three-year Graduate Route provides more time to explore research-based roles or secure permanent job opportunities in the UK.

Switching Visa Categories:
If you secure a long-term job offer that meets the requirements of a Skilled Worker Visa, you can switch before your Graduate Route expires.

The Graduate Route is ideal for international students because:

• It removes the need for employer sponsorship.
• You can explore opportunities in the vibrant UK job market.
• It provides a pathway to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker Visa.

1. Can I bring dependents?

You can only bring dependents if they are already in the UK as your dependents under a Student visa.

2. What happens after the visa expires?

You must leave the UK unless you switch to another visa category or renew your status through eligible means.

3. Can I study while on the Graduate Route?

Studying is allowed, but the course must not be eligible for a Student visa.

The Graduate Route in 2024 offers an excellent opportunity for international graduates to transition into the UK workforce or entrepreneurial space. By understanding the eligibility criteria, costs, and application steps, you can confidently navigate the process and make the most of your time in the UK.