Graduating from a UK university is a significant achievement, but it’s only the beginning of your journey. If you’re an international student, you may be considering staying in the UK to work or continue your studies. The UK Graduate Visa, also known as the Graduate Route, is a new immigration route that allows international students to stay in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD students) after completing their studies. This article will guide you through the requirements, fees, processing time, and application process for the UK Graduate Visa.
UK Graduate Visa: An Overview
The UK Graduate Visa is designed for international students who have successfully completed a degree at undergraduate level or above at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance. The visa allows graduates to work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two years, or three years for PhD graduates. The Graduate Route is unsponsored, meaning applicants do not need a job offer to apply.
Graduate Visa Requirements
To be eligible for the UK Graduate Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have successfully completed a course of study at undergraduate (bachelor’s) level or above at a UK Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.
- You must have a valid Tier 4 or Student visa at the time of application.
- You must be in the UK when you apply.
Please note that the Graduate Route is only available to students who have a valid Tier 4 or Student visa and have successfully completed a degree at a UK Higher Education Provider. The Graduate Route is not available to dependents. If you have dependents on your current visa, they will need to apply for a different type of visa.
Graduate Visa Fees
The graduate visa fee for the UK Graduate Visa is £700. In addition to the visa fee, you will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year. This means that for a two-year visa, the total cost would be £1,948, and for a three-year visa, the total cost would be £2,572.
Graduate Visa Processing Time
The UK graduate visa processing time can vary, but it typically takes around eight weeks from the date of application. However, it’s important to note that processing times can be longer during peak periods, such as just after graduation. Therefore, it’s recommended to apply as early as possible to avoid any potential delays.
Applying for the Graduate Visa
Applying for the Graduate Visa is a straightforward process. You can apply online through the UK government’s official website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check that you meet all the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your supporting documents. You will need your passport, proof of your degree, and proof of maintenance funds.
- Apply online. You will need to fill in the application form, pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Attend a biometric appointment. You will need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre.
- Wait for a decision. You will receive a decision on your application within eight weeks.
If you need help with your application, you can contact the Graduate Visa helpline. They can provide advice on the application process and answer any questions you may have.
Conclusion
The UK Graduate Visa is a fantastic opportunity for international students to stay in the UK after their studies and gain valuable work experience. With careful planning and preparation, the application process can be straightforward and stress-free. Remember to check the official UK government website for the most up-to-date information and guidance.
