How to Apply for Post-study Work Visa for UK?

The UK Post-Study Work Visa, also known as the Graduate Route, allows international students who have completed an eligible course in the UK to stay and work (or look for work) for up to two years (or three years for doctoral graduates). This visa is an excellent pathway for recent graduates wishing to gain practical work experience and potentially transition into longer-term employment in the UK.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Graduate Route, including eligibility, application steps, and key requirements.

1. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the UK Graduate Route, you must meet the following conditions:

Current Location: You must be physically in the UK when applying.
Valid Visa: You must hold a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa at the time of your application.
Successful Course Completion: You should have completed an eligible course (e.g., a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree) at a UK higher education provider that is a licensed sponsor.
Course Confirmation: Your education provider must have officially informed the Home Office that you’ve successfully completed your course.
Compliance: You must have met all conditions of your Student visa throughout your period of study.

2. How to Apply for the Graduate Route

The application is entirely online and should be made via the official GOV.UK website. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Online Application

Start your application on the UK government’s immigration portal.

Step 2: Identity Verification

Verify your identity using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ mobile app, or
Attend an in-person UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) appointment to submit biometric data.

Step 3: Submit Documents

You will need to provide:

A valid passport
Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) (if issued)
Your Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
A letter or confirmation from your university confirming course completion
Any other documents requested by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)

Step 4: Pay Required Fees

Application Fee: Currently £822 (as of 2025)
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year

Step 5: Await Decision

The Home Office typically processes Graduate visa applications within 8 weeks. You may be contacted if further information is required.

3. Key Requirements

While the Graduate Route is one of the most flexible UK visa options, applicants must still meet essential conditions:

No Job Offer Needed: You don’t need a job offer to apply. However, if you accept employment, it must meet UK work and salary standards.
English Language: If you’ve studied in English under a UK Student visa, this typically satisfies the English language requirement.
Financial Stability: Although there’s no set financial requirement, you must be able to support yourself, as public funds are not accessible on this visa.

4. After You Apply

Once your visa is approved, you will receive:

A Graduate visa, valid for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates)
Permission to work in most roles, including self-employment and volunteering
The opportunity to switch to another visa category (e.g., Skilled Worker visa) if you find eligible employment

Important Notes

Timely Application: You must apply before your current Student visa expires.
Visa Extension: The Graduate visa cannot be extended, but you can apply for a different work visa during or after its validity.
Dependants: If your partner and children were dependants on your Student visa, they can apply to stay with you.

The UK Graduate Route is a valuable post-study work opportunity for international students looking to kickstart their careers in the UK. It offers the freedom to explore job opportunities without being tied to a specific employer and serves as a stepping stone toward long-term residency or other skilled work routes.

For detailed guidance or to begin your application, visit the official GOV.UK website.