Graduate Visa UK
A Graduate visa permits you to stay in the UK for up to two years (or three years for doctoral graduates) after successfully completing a course in the UK.
If you are planning to apply for a UK Graduate visa, our immigration solicitors can provide legal advice assistance with your Graduate visa application.
Please contact our immigration solicitor at 0158 235 9990 or fill in the enquiry form to take the first step towards your successful UK Graduate visa application.
What is a Graduate visa?
The Graduate visa is a post-study work visa that allows international students who have graduated from a recognised UK university or higher education provider to stay in the UK and work at any skill level.
Unlike other visas, it does not require a job offer or sponsorship, making it a flexible option for recent graduates.
Introduced in 2021, this visa allows graduates to remain in the UK for up to two years (or three years for doctoral graduates) after successfully completing their studies.
This visa category is an excellent way for graduates to gain work experience, explore career opportunities, and potentially transition to other long-term visas.
Key benefits of the Graduate visa
- No Sponsorship Required: You don't need a job offer or employer sponsorship to apply.
- Work Flexibility: You can work at any skill level, including self-employment, or switch jobs without restrictions.
- Opportunity to Transition: The visa provides a pathway to other long-term visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, depending on your employment status.
- Extended Stay: Graduates can stay for up to two years, and doctoral graduates can stay for three years.
- Bring Family Members: If your family members are already in the UK as your dependents, they can also apply to extend their stay.
Eligibility criteria for the Graduate visa
To be eligible for the Graduate visa, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Completed a Degree: You must have successfully completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance. This includes undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees.
- Valid Student Visa: You must currently hold a valid Student Visa or Tier 4 (General) Student Visa at the time of application.
- Study in the UK: You must have spent a required period of your course studying in the UK. This is usually at least 12 months for courses longer than that, or the full duration of the course if it's shorter than 12 months.
- No Application Before Results: You can only apply after your education provider (such as a university) has informed the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course.
Depending on the type of your appication and circumstances, you must meet all the other eligibility requirements. Schedule a consultation with our UK immigration solicitor for your eligibility assessments.
Application process for the Graduate visa
The application process for the Graduate visa can be completed online.
1. Prepare Your Documents
Before applying, gather the necessary documents:
- A valid passport or travel document
- Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), if you were issued one
- Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number used for your Student Visa application
- Evidence of your qualification completion, as confirmed by your educational institution
2. Submit Your Application Online
Applications are made online through the UK government's official visa portal. You will need to:
- Fill out the application form
- Pay the application fee of £822
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1035 per year of stay
3. Verify Your Identity
Depending on your nationality, you may need to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph, or you may be able to verify your identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
4. Wait for a Decision
Once you've applied, verified your identity, and provided the necessary documents, you'll typically receive a decision within 8 weeks. During this period, you can stay in the UK and start working while your application is being processed.
The processing time for a UK visa or immigration application can vary depending on several factors. All the applicants are advised to check the latest information about application processing time on the official UK government website.
Graduate visa application fees
When you apply for a Graduate visa, you'll need to:
- pay the £822 application fee
- pay the healthcare surcharge - this is usually £1,035 for each year you'll be in the UK
What you can and cannot do on a Graduate visa
The Graduate visa offers considerable flexibility, but there are some restrictions:
What You Can Do
- Work in any job, including at any skill level
- Be self-employed
- Continue living in the UK with your family members (if they are already dependents on your Student Visa)
- Travel in and out of the UK
What You Cannot Do
- Extend the Graduate visa; once it expires, you must apply for another visa category if you wish to remain in the UK
- Claim public funds (benefits)
- Work as a professional sportsperson
Why choose us?
Are you facing immigration challenges or seeking assistance with visa applications in the UK? Our team of experienced immigration solicitors is here to provide you with expert legal guidance and support every step of the way.
Here's why you should choose us and how we can help:
Expertise and Experience
Our immigration solicitors have years of experience navigating the complexities of UK immigration law. We stay updated with the latest developments in immigration policies and procedures to ensure that our clients receive accurate and reliable advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
Comprehensive Range of Services
Our immigration solicitors offer a wide range of services to individuals, families, and businesses. From visa applications and appeals to asylum claims and corporate immigration matters, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle various immigration issues effectively.
Strong Track Record of Success
With a proven track record of success, our immigration solicitors have helped countless individuals and families achieve their immigration goals. Whether it's obtaining a visa, securing permanent residency, or reuniting with loved ones, we have the skills and resources to get results.
Cost-Effective Solutions
We understand that immigration matters can be financially challenging, which is why we offer cost-effective solutions tailored to our clients' budgets. Our transparent fee structure ensures that you know exactly what to expect without any hidden costs or surprises along the way.
Regulated by SRA
Solicitors and law firms in the UK must be registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). You can check their credentials by visiting the SRA's official website or by asking the solicitor or law firm for their registration details.
We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) under SRA ID: 8000860, so you know you're in safe hands.
How to contact immigration solicitors in Luton?
Looking for an experienced immigration solicitor in Luton? Look no further than LEXMM SOLICITORS. For legal advice & help, call us today at 0158 235 9990.
To schedule a consultation, you can contact our office by phone (0158 235 9990) or email (info@lexmmsolicitors.co.uk). Alternatively, you can fill out the online contact form, and a member of our team will reach out to you promptly to arrange a suitable time for a consultation.