UK government reduces Graduate Route visa duration to 18 months from 2027

The UK government has announced that international students applying for the Graduate Route visa from Jan 1, 2027, will be eligible for an 18-month post-study stay instead of the current two years.

The revised policy will apply to applications submitted on or after Jan 1, 2027. Students who apply by Dec 31, 2026, will continue to receive a Graduate Route visa valid for two years.

The Graduate Route allows eligible international students to remain in the UK after completing their studies to gain work experience, look for employment, or switch to another eligible visa category.

The change does not apply to doctoral graduates. Students who complete a PhD or other doctoral qualification will continue to receive a Graduate Route visa valid for three years.

The Graduate visa becomes effective from the date it is approved and cannot be extended. However, eligible graduates may transition to another immigration route, including the Skilled Worker visa.

Applicants must be in the UK and hold a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) Student visa. They must also have completed an eligible bachelor's, postgraduate, or other approved course, with their education provider confirming successful completion to the UK Home Office.

Applications must be submitted before the Student visa expires. Students do not need to wait for their degree certificate if their institution has already informed the Home Office that they have completed their course.

Most applications are completed online. Applicants must verify their identity, submit the required documents, and complete the application process before a decision is made.

The application fee is £937, in addition to the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is generally £1,035 for each year of stay.

According to the UK government, most Graduate Route visa applications are processed within eight weeks after identity verification and submission of supporting documents. Applicants may remain in the UK while their application is being considered.

Graduate Route visa holders can work in most jobs, search for employment, become self-employed, undertake eligible unpaid voluntary work, and travel in and out of the UK during the validity of the visa. They are not eligible to access most public funds, claim the State Pension, or work as professional sportspeople.

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