How to Apply for the UK Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work) — Requirements & Document Checklist 2026
The Graduate visa, also known as the Post-Study Work (PSW) route, lets you stay in the UK for two years after finishing your degree — three years for PhD graduates. There is no sponsor, no salary threshold, and no job offer needed. This guide covers who qualifies, how to apply, exactly which documents UKVI requires, and what happens after your Graduate visa expires.
Planning to stay in the UK after your Graduate visa? You can switch to a Skilled Worker visa without leaving.
See the Skilled Worker visa guide →Do I qualify for the Graduate visa?
Completed an eligible UK degree
You must have completed a bachelor's, master's, or PhD (or other eligible qualification) at a licensed student sponsor in the UK.
Held a Student visa for the required period
You must have held a Student visa (or Tier 4 General student visa) for the course you just finished.
Apply before your Student visa expires
You must apply from inside the UK before your current Student visa (or permission to stay) expires.
Not previously held a Graduate visa
You can only be granted a Graduate visa once. If you have held one before, you do not qualify.
Document checklist
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Valid passport or travel document
Must be valid for the continuation of your stay. Keep your old passport if it contains your Student visa vignette.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Not needed for the Graduate visa itself, but keep it with your records as evidence of your degree study.
Proof of degree completion
Letter from your university confirming you have completed your course, or your official degree certificate if already issued.
Bank statements (28-day maintenance)
Showing £1,270 continuously for 28 days unless your university certifies maintenance on your behalf.
Current BRP card
Your Biometric Residence Permit from your Student visa. Needed to confirm your current leave.
Proof of identity and nationality
Passport biographical page. Some nationalities must also provide a national identity card.
TB test certificate (if required)
Required if you originally entered from a listed country and your test certificate has expired.
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Costs and processing times
Visa application fee
£822
Immigration Health Surcharge (2 years)
£2,070
Immigration Health Surcharge (3 years — PhD)
£3,105
VisaVault document pack
£299 one-off
Typical processing time
8 weeks standard; 5 working days with priority service
Frequently asked questions
Other UK visa routes
Skilled Worker Visa
Work in the UK for a licensed employer — the main route for sponsored workers after your Graduate visa.
Student Visa
Study at a licensed UK university or college for the duration of your course.
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa
Graduated from a top global university outside the UK? The HPI visa may apply to you instead.
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