OISC REGULATED · UNITED KINGDOMPOST-STUDY WORK

Graduate Route — UK Immigration Advisers

The Graduate Route visa allows eligible international students who have successfully completed a UK degree (bachelor's, master's, or PhD) at a licensed student sponsor to work or look for work in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates). No job offer or sponsor is required.

Visa code

2 years (3 for PhD)

Duration

£715

Gov fees from

OISC

Regulator

Visa details

Visa typeGraduate Route

CodeGR

Duration2 years (3 for PhD)

Est. gov fees£715 (gov) + agent

RegulatorHome Office / OISC

Key eligibility

Successfully completed a bachelor's, master's, or PhD at a UK higher education institution

Current Student visa with the institution for at least 6 months prior

Not previously held the Graduate visa

Apply from inside the UK before current leave expires

Valid Student visa when applying

No criminal convictions relevant to the character requirement

Why use an OISC adviser for the Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route appears straightforward but timing is critical — you must apply before your current Student visa expires and confirm your award has been formally conferred by the institution. An OISC adviser ensures you apply at the right time and transition smoothly to a Skilled Worker visa when ready.

Graduate Route Advisers

OISC-regulated advisers and solicitors specialising in Graduate Route applications.

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Frequently asked questions — Graduate Route

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate Route?

No. The Graduate Route requires no job offer, no sponsor, and no minimum salary. It gives you the freedom to work in any role, look for work, or start a business while in the UK.

Can the Graduate Route lead to settlement (ILR)?

Graduate Route time counts towards ILR under certain conditions, but the route itself does not directly lead to ILR. Most Graduate Route holders transition to a Skilled Worker visa when they find a sponsored employer, after which they accumulate qualifying time towards ILR.

Can I extend the Graduate Route?

No. The Graduate Route cannot be extended. You must switch to another visa (such as Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder) before it expires if you want to continue living in the UK.

What counts as "successfully completing" the degree?

Your institution must have confirmed that you have completed and passed your course. A conditional offer or pending results are not sufficient. Apply only once you have received official confirmation of your award from the institution.

Can I bring dependants on the Graduate Route?

If you had dependants on your Student visa and they have maintained their status, they can switch to the Graduate dependant visa. New dependants from outside the UK cannot join you on the Graduate Route.