Graduate Route Visa: A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Successfully
Securing a Graduate Route Visa — aka the “Post-Study Work Visa” — is a huge win. It gives you 2 years (or 3 if you’re a PhD graduate) to stay in the UK and work at almost any skill level. And don’t worry: the process is easier than most immigration paperwork nightmares.
The Golden Rule (Seriously, don’t mess this up)
Do not leave the UK during the application process.
If you leave while your application is pending, it gets withdrawn — and your money vanishes with it.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You need to be sure of three things:
- You’re currently in the UK on a valid Student (or Tier 4) Visa.
- You’ve successfully completed your course. (Graduation ceremony not required — only final results.)
- Your university has told the Home Office you passed.
That last point trips up more people than you’d think.
Don’t apply until your university emails something like:
“We have successfully reported your completion to the Home Office.”
If you haven’t received that — wait.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents (and Your Wallet)
Good news: You don’t need bank statements or financial evidence this time.
You’ll need:
- Valid passport
- BRP (if you have one)
- CAS number from your previous student visa
- Permission letter if your studies were funded by a government scholarship
The Cost of the Visa (2024/2025)
- Application fee: £880
- Healthcare surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year
So:
- £2,070 total for 2-year visas
- £3,105 total for PhD applicants (3-year visa)
And yes — it all must be paid upfront.
Step 3: Application Time
You apply online via the official UK government site.
- Start your application on the Graduate Route Visa page
- Verify your identity using the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app
- Scan passport/BRP, take a selfie
- Enter your old CAS number
- Pay IHS, then application fee
- Submit and wait for confirmation email
If the app doesn’t work for you, you’ll be asked to visit a visa centre. Annoying, but still manageable.
Step 4: The Waiting Period
- Standard processing time: 8 weeks
Now here’s the fun part:
Once you apply, you can already work full-time — even before the visa arrives.
Just note:
Technically, you’re still on student visa conditions until approval is granted. Some HR departments freak out about that. Others don’t. Show proof of application and you’re usually fine.
Step 5: After Approval
You’ll likely be given an eVisa (digital status), not a physical card.
You CAN:
- Work in almost any job
- Freelance or be self-employed
- Move between employers freely
- Travel outside the UK and return anytime
You CANNOT:
- Work as a professional sportsperson or coach
- Claim public funds
- Extend the visa
When your Graduate Visa expires, you’ll need to switch — typically to a Skilled Worker Visa, if your employer can sponsor you.
FAQs
Do I need proof of funds or bank statements for this visa?
No, not at all. Unlike the Student Visa, financial evidence is not required.
Can I switch employers anytime while on this visa?
Yes. There are no restrictions on job changes.
What happens after the 2-year visa ends?
You must switch to another visa category (like Skilled Worker) or leave the UK.
Final Thoughts
Applying for the Graduate Route Visa isn’t complicated — as long as you follow the rules, stay in the UK during processing, and wait for your university to notify the Home Office first.
Also heck out: 18-Month Countdown: UK Graduates Race Against the New Visa Rules.
