Immigration

Understanding the UK Graduate Route Visa

Published June 12, 2026 | By Care2 Training Limited Editorial Team

The UK Graduate Route allows international students who have completed a degree at a UK higher education provider to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK for at least two years (three years for PhD graduates). It is unsponsored, meaning you do not need a job offer to apply, and it provides a critical bridge from student life to the UK labour market.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must have completed an eligible course at bachelor degree level or above at a licensed student sponsor institution. You must apply from within the UK before your Student visa expires. The application fee is currently £715, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of the visa.

Work Rights and Restrictions

The Graduate Route is remarkably flexible. You can work full-time, part-time, be self-employed, or start a business. The only restrictions are that you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach, and you cannot access public funds. This flexibility makes it one of the most attractive post-study work visas globally.

From Graduate Route to Skilled Worker Visa

Many graduates use the two-year window to secure employment with a licensed sponsor and switch to the Skilled Worker visa. Once on the Skilled Worker route, you can count time towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years. Our team helps graduates identify licensed employers and negotiate visa sponsorship during the Graduate Route period.