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The Graduate Route
The Graduate visa lets you stay in the UK to work, or look for work, after you complete an eligible degree. It lasts 2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months if you apply on or after 1 January 2027. After a PhD it lasts 3 years.
Checked against official sources on 24 September 2026.
This is general information, not immigration advice. For your own situation, speak to your university's international student adviser, UKCISA, or a regulated immigration adviser. Rules change, so always check GOV.UK before you apply.
Who can apply
You must be in the UK on a Student visa, have studied a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for the minimum time, and your university must have told the Home Office you have successfully completed it. You apply from inside the UK before your Student visa ends.
Cost
The application fee is £937. You also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge at the standard rate, usually £1,035 for each year.
What you can do
You can work in most jobs, be self-employed, and look for work, without a sponsor. You cannot claim most benefits or work as a professional sportsperson.
Staying longer
You cannot extend a Graduate visa, but you may be able to switch to another visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa, if you meet its rules.
For students starting in 2027
If you start a three-year degree in September 2027, you will finish in 2030, so the 18-month length would apply unless the rules change again. Check GOV.UK when you graduate.
Sources
Quick answers
How long is the UK Graduate visa?
2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, 18 months if you apply on or after 1 January 2027, and 3 years after a PhD.
How much does the Graduate visa cost?
The application fee is £937, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge, usually £1,035 for each year.