UK Post-Study Work Visa 2025 – Graduate Route Details, Eligibility, and Stay Back Options

Learn about the UK's Post-Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) for 2025. Get info on eligibility, duration, cost, jobs allowed, and how to apply.

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📘 Introduction

The UK’s Graduate Route visa allows international students to stay back and work in the UK after completing their degree. This pathway is ideal for Indian students looking to gain international work experience. In this 2025 guide, we explain everything you need to know about the UK Post-Study Work Visa – eligibility, benefits, timelines, and how to apply.

 

🛂 What is the Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route is a post-study visa that allows international students to stay in the UK for:

• ✅ 2 years after completing a Bachelor's or Master’s degree

• ✅ 3 years after completing a PhD

During this period, you can work full-time in any job, and even switch to a Skilled Worker visa later if you get a qualifying job.

 

✅ Eligibility Criteria – 2025

To be eligible for the UK Post-Study Work Visa in 2025:

• You must have completed a degree at undergraduate level or above in the UK

• Your university must be a licensed student sponsor

• You must apply before your Student Visa expires

• You must be physically present in the UK at the time of application

• No job offer or sponsorship is required

 

📅 How to Apply & Timeline

1. When to apply: After your university confirms successful course completion

2. Documents required:

o Valid passport

o Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

o Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number

3. Processing time: Usually takes up to 8 weeks

4. Cost:

o Application Fee: £822

o Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year

 

🎯 Benefits of the UK Graduate Route Visa

• 💼 Work full-time in any sector without restrictions

• 🔄 Switch to a Skilled Worker visa when ready

• 🧳 No job offer or sponsorship needed at the time of applying

• 🌍 Gain international work experience after study

• 🏡 Provides a pathway to settle and eventually apply for PR in the UK

 

❓ FAQs – UK Graduate Route Visa

Q: Can I bring dependents on the Graduate Route?
A: Only if they were already dependents on your Tier 4/Student Visa.

Q: Can I switch to another visa later?
A: Yes. You can switch to a Skilled Worker visa or other work routes.

Q: Is sponsorship needed for the Graduate Route?
A: No. This is an unsponsored visa.

Q: Can I be self-employed on this visa?
A: Yes, self-employment is allowed.

Q: Do I need to show financial documents or proof of funds?
A: No. This visa does not require proof of funds.

 

📢 Call to Action (CTA)

🎓 Looking to stay back in the UK after graduation?
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