Everything You Need to Know About the UK Graduate Visa (May 2025 Update)
6/28/20252 min read
For international students who want to stay and work in the UK after graduation, the Graduate Visa presents an important opportunity. At Seven Academy, we’re breaking down the latest updates, eligibility criteria, work rights, and policy reforms surrounding this visa route.
What Is the Graduate Visa?
Launched in July 2021, the Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed a UK undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral degree to stay in the country to work or seek employment. This visa route is part of the UK Government’s strategy to attract international talent to the country.
Who Can Apply for the Graduate Visa?
To apply for a UK Graduate Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Completion of a UK degree or an eligible qualification,
Graduation from a Higher Education Provider with a valid Student Sponsor license,
Valid leave as a Student or Tier 4 visa holder during the period of study,
Application submitted from inside the UK, with valid Student leave at the time of applying,
No prior visa granted under the Graduate Visa or Doctorate Extension Scheme.
This is an unsponsored visa route, meaning you do not need a job offer or Certificate of Sponsorship to apply.
Work Rights Under the Graduate Visa
Graduate Visa holders can legally work in the UK in the following ways:
Full-time or part-time paid employment,
Voluntary work,
Self-employment,
Running a business or engaging in professional activities.
The only restriction is on working as a professional sportsperson or coach. Aside from that, there is full flexibility in terms of job type and working hours.
Can You Study on a Graduate Visa?
Yes, but with certain restrictions. Study is allowed, but not at an institution that qualifies as a Student Sponsor offering courses eligible under the Student route. Study is also subject to ATAS requirements.
Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates can stay in the UK for 2 years.
Doctoral graduates can stay for 3 years.
Does the Graduate Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
The Graduate Visa does not lead directly to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, it allows you to switch to other routes, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, which can lead to settlement in the UK.
Graduate Visa and Dependants
If you have family members who were dependants on your Student visa, they can extend their stay with you under the Graduate route. However, new dependants cannot be added, except for children born in the UK during your Student or Graduate visa period.
2025 Policy Review and Proposed Changes
The 2025 White Paper and the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) reports included key findings:
69% of Graduate Visa users wouldn’t have stayed in the UK without this route.
Most graduates reported difficulty in finding jobs.
84% of Graduate Visa dependants (partners) are economically active.
The government proposes reducing the visa duration from 2 years to 18 months.
A potential levy on international student fees is also under consideration to reinvest in the UK higher education system.
Plan Your Post-Graduation Career in the UK with Seven Academy
At Seven Academy, we help you navigate every step of your post-graduation visa journey. From understanding the latest requirements to planning your next move in the UK, we offer professional guidance tailored to your goals.
