The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa lets recent graduates of the world’s top universities come to the UK to work — with no job offer and no sponsor. This 2026 guide explains which universities qualify, how long it lasts, the cost, and the big catch around settlement.
Which universities qualify?
You must have been awarded an eligible degree (in the last 5 years) by a university on the HPI Global Universities List — institutions in the top 100 of at least two of the QS, Times Higher Education and ARWU rankings. The current list has around 80 universities across 15 countries. Note: UK universities are not on the list (that’s by design — UK graduates use the Graduate visa instead).
How long does it last?
2 years for bachelor’s or master’s graduates, 3 years for PhD holders. It cannot be extended, and there’s now an annual cap of 8,000 places.
Cost and what you can do
The application fee is £880 (plus the IHS). There’s no job offer, no sponsor and no salary threshold — you can work, be self-employed or start a business.
The settlement catch
Crucially, time on the HPI visa does not count towards the 5-year qualifying period for settlement. To stay long-term you’ll need to switch to the Skilled Worker visa (or another qualifying route) before it ends.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HPI visa?
An unsponsored 2-year work visa for recent graduates of top global (non-UK) universities.
Which universities qualify for the HPI visa?
Those in the top 100 of at least two of the QS, THE and ARWU rankings — around 80 universities across 15 countries; UK universities aren’t on the list.
How long does the HPI visa last?
2 years for bachelor’s or master’s graduates, 3 years for PhD holders — and it can’t be extended.
Do I need a job offer or sponsor?
No — there’s no job offer, sponsor or salary threshold; you can work, be self-employed or start a business.
How much does the HPI visa cost?
£880 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Does HPI time count towards settlement?
No — time on the HPI visa doesn’t count towards the 5-year settlement period, so you’d switch to a route like the Skilled Worker visa.
