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Graduate Visa
This visa allows individuals who have completed a degree or other eligible course in the UK to stay and work in the country for a certain period. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be in the UK at the time of application.
- Must hold a current Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa.
- Completion of a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible course.
- Education provider must confirm to the Home Office about successful course completion.
Duration:
- Graduate visa lasts for 2 years, or 3 years for those with a PHD or other doctoral qualification.
- Visa starts from the day the application is approved.
Extension:
- The Graduate visa cannot be extended. However, individuals may be able to switch to a different visa category, such as the Skilled Worker visa.
Application:
- Application must be submitted online.
- Partners and children can also apply if eligible.
- Application must be made before the expiry of the current Student or Tier 4 visa.
- Applicants can apply after the education provider confirms successful course completion, even before graduation or receiving a certificate.
Decision Time:
- Usually, a decision is made within 8 weeks of application.
- Applicants can stay in the UK while awaiting a decision.
Cost:
- Application fee is £822.
- Healthcare surcharge is applicable, usually £1,035 for each year in the UK.
Working and Other Activities:
- Graduate visa holders can work in most jobs, be self-employed, look for work, and do voluntary work.
- They can continue living with their partners and children if eligible.
- Travel abroad and return to the UK is allowed.
- However, they cannot apply for most benefits or work as professional sportspersons.
Studying:
- Studying is only permitted if the chosen course is not eligible for a Student visa.
- An Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate may be required for studying or researching sensitive topics.