Question 1

What are the core eligibility requirements for the UK Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

To be eligible for the UK Graduate visa, you must have completed an eligible degree at a UK higher education provider, hold a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) Student visa, and apply from within the UK. Your educational institution must also confirm your degree completion to the Home Office.

Question 2

What specific documents do I need to apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

You need a valid passport or travel document, your current Tier 4 or Student visa, your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number from when you applied for your student visa, and evidence of your completed qualification (e.g., degree certificate or official transcript). Ensure all documents are in English or translated by a certified translator.

Question 3

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa. This visa allows you to work or look for work in the UK without requiring sponsorship or a specific job offer.

Question 4

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Tier 4 visa has expired?

Accepted Answer

No, you must apply for the Graduate visa while your Tier 4 or Student visa is still valid. If your visa has expired, you will not be eligible to apply under this route and should seek legal advice on your options.

Question 5

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Student visa has expired?

Accepted Answer

No, you must apply for the Graduate visa while your Student visa is still valid. Applications submitted after your Student visa has expired will not be accepted.

Question 6

How long can I stay in the UK on a Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

The Graduate visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years if you have completed an undergraduate or master's degree, and up to three years if you have completed a doctoral degree.

Question 7

Is there a financial maintenance requirement for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

There is no financial maintenance requirement for the Graduate visa. Unlike other visa categories, you are not required to demonstrate a certain amount of savings or financial support.

Question 8

Is there a deadline for applying for the Graduate visa after graduation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must apply for the Graduate visa within two years of being awarded your qualification and while your Tier 4 or Student visa remains valid. It's important to plan your application timeline accordingly.

Question 9

How long does the Graduate visa allow me to stay in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The Graduate visa allows you to stay in the UK for two years if you have completed an undergraduate or master's degree. If you have completed a doctoral degree, you can stay for three years.

Question 10

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

The application fee for the Graduate visa is £715. Additionally, you are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year of the visa. Ensure you have these funds available when you apply.

Question 11

What happens if my application for the Graduate visa is rejected?

Accepted Answer

If your application is rejected, you should receive a letter outlining the reasons for the rejection. You may be able to apply for an administrative review or submit a new application if you can address the issues that led to the rejection.

Question 12

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need a job offer or sponsorship from a UK employer to apply for the Graduate visa. This visa offers flexibility to work in most jobs, switch jobs, and even become self-employed without sponsorship.

Question 13

What type of jobs can I work in under the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

The Graduate visa offers flexibility to work in most jobs at any skill level. There are no restrictions on the type of employment you can take, allowing you to gain diverse work experience.

Question 14

What types of work can I do on a Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

You can work in most jobs, including being self-employed, under the Graduate visa. However, you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach. This flexibility allows you to explore various career opportunities in the UK.

Question 15

Do I need to prove English language proficiency for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no English language requirement for the Graduate visa. Completing a degree in the UK is considered sufficient proof of English proficiency.

Question 16

Does the Graduate visa lead to settlement in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The Graduate visa does not directly lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK. However, it can serve as a stepping stone to other visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which may eventually lead to settlement.

Question 17

Are there any criminal record checks required for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must declare any criminal convictions when applying for the Graduate visa. Serious offenses may affect your application, and you must meet the general UK immigration good character requirements.

Question 18

What if my criminal record affects my Graduate visa application?

Accepted Answer

You must declare all criminal convictions on your application. Minor offenses may not impact your eligibility, but serious offenses could result in refusal. It's crucial to disclose all relevant information accurately to avoid future immigration issues.

Question 19

Can I switch from the Graduate visa to another visa type while in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can switch from the Graduate visa to various other visa types, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if you meet the eligibility requirements for the new visa category.

Question 20

Can I switch from the Graduate visa to another visa category while in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can switch to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker visa, from within the UK as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for the new visa category. This allows for a smooth transition and continued residence in the UK.

Question 21

What documents are needed to apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

You will need a valid passport or travel document, your current biometric residence permit, and confirmation from your educational provider that you completed your degree. Additionally, you must provide a declaration of any criminal convictions.

Question 22

How soon after completing my course can I apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

You should apply for the Graduate visa as soon as your education provider has officially confirmed that you've successfully completed your course. This is typically after receiving your final results or degree certificate.

Question 23

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

The application fee for the Graduate visa is £700. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year for the duration of the visa.

Question 24

If my application for the Graduate visa is refused, can I appeal the decision?

Accepted Answer

There is no right of appeal for a Graduate visa refusal. However, you may request an administrative review if you believe there was an error in the decision. It's advisable to consult an immigration lawyer for guidance.

Question 25

How long does it take to process a Graduate visa application?

Accepted Answer

Most Graduate visa applications are processed within eight weeks. However, processing times can vary, so it is advisable to apply well before your current visa expires.

Question 26

What happens if my Graduate visa application is delayed past my Tier 4 visa expiry?

Accepted Answer

If you've applied for the Graduate visa before your Tier 4 visa expires, your immigration status will be protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971 until a decision is made. This allows you to remain in the UK legally during the waiting period.

Question 27

Can I travel outside the UK on a Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can travel outside the UK and return on a Graduate visa. However, ensure that your visa is valid for re-entry and be aware of any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements.

Question 28

Are there any maintenance fund requirements for the Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

No, the Graduate visa does not require you to show proof of maintenance funds. This simplifies the application process as financial evidence is not needed to support your stay under this visa route.

Question 29

What are the next steps after my Graduate visa expires?

Accepted Answer

Before your Graduate visa expires, consider your options for staying in the UK, such as applying for a Skilled Worker visa or another suitable category. Plan ahead to ensure you meet any new visa requirements.

Question 30

Can I study further while on a Graduate visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can study while on a Graduate visa, but you cannot study with an institution that would sponsor you under a Student visa. If you plan to pursue another degree that requires sponsorship, you must switch back to a Student visa.

Graduate visa FAQ

Featured Questions

What are the core eligibility requirements for the UK Graduate visa?General00

What are the core eligibility requirements for the UK Graduate visa?

What specific documents do I need to apply for the Graduate visa?Documents0

What specific documents do I need to apply for the Graduate visa?

Application Process Questions

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?00

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Tier 4 visa has expired?0

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Tier 4 visa has expired?

Documents Questions

What specific documents do I need to apply for the Graduate visa?00

What specific documents do I need to apply for the Graduate visa?

What documents are needed to apply for the Graduate visa?

What documents are needed to apply for the Graduate visa?

Costs Questions

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?00

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?0

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?

Timeline Questions

How long can I stay in the UK on a Graduate visa?00

How long can I stay in the UK on a Graduate visa?

How long does the Graduate visa allow me to stay in the UK?0

How long does the Graduate visa allow me to stay in the UK?

After Application Questions

Is there a deadline for applying for the Graduate visa after graduation?00

Is there a deadline for applying for the Graduate visa after graduation?

How soon after completing my course can I apply for the Graduate visa?0

How soon after completing my course can I apply for the Graduate visa?

General Questions

What are the core eligibility requirements for the UK Graduate visa?00

What are the core eligibility requirements for the UK Graduate visa?

Is there a financial maintenance requirement for the Graduate visa?0

Is there a financial maintenance requirement for the Graduate visa?

Quick Facts

Guide Sections

Related Resources

FAQ Overview

Quick Navigation

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?Application Process00

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Tier 4 visa has expired?Application Process00

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Tier 4 visa has expired?

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Student visa has expired?Application Process00

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Student visa has expired?

How long can I stay in the UK on a Graduate visa?Timeline00

How long can I stay in the UK on a Graduate visa?

Is there a financial maintenance requirement for the Graduate visa?General00

Is there a financial maintenance requirement for the Graduate visa?

Is there a deadline for applying for the Graduate visa after graduation?After Application00

Is there a deadline for applying for the Graduate visa after graduation?

How long does the Graduate visa allow me to stay in the UK?Timeline00

How long does the Graduate visa allow me to stay in the UK?

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?Costs & Fees00

How much does it cost to apply for the Graduate visa?

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Student visa has expired?00

Can I apply for the Graduate visa if my Student visa has expired?

What happens if my application for the Graduate visa is rejected?00

What happens if my application for the Graduate visa is rejected?

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?00

Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate visa?

What if my criminal record affects my Graduate visa application?00

What if my criminal record affects my Graduate visa application?

What happens if my Graduate visa application is delayed past my Tier 4 visa expiry?00

What happens if my Graduate visa application is delayed past my Tier 4 visa expiry?

How long does it take to process a Graduate visa application?00

How long does it take to process a Graduate visa application?

If my application for the Graduate visa is refused, can I appeal the decision?00

If my application for the Graduate visa is refused, can I appeal the decision?

What are the next steps after my Graduate visa expires?00

What are the next steps after my Graduate visa expires?

What type of jobs can I work in under the Graduate visa?00

What type of jobs can I work in under the Graduate visa?

What types of work can I do on a Graduate visa?00

What types of work can I do on a Graduate visa?

Do I need to prove English language proficiency for the Graduate visa?00

Do I need to prove English language proficiency for the Graduate visa?

Does the Graduate visa lead to settlement in the UK?00