The UK Graduate Route Visa: Everything You Need to Know
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The UK Graduate Route Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Umar Education Team22 October 2025

What is the UK Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route is a visa that allows international students who have completed a degree at a UK university to stay in the UK and work — or look for work — for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).

Who is Eligible?

  • Have successfully completed a degree at a UK higher education provider

  • Have held a valid Student visa when you graduated

  • Apply before your Student visa expires

What Can You Do on the Graduate Route?

  • Work in any job at any skill level

  • Switch to other visa routes (such as Skilled Worker) without needing to leave the UK

  • Travel in and out of the UK freely

How to Apply

Complete the online application on the UKVI portal, pay the application fee (currently £822), pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (currently £1,035/year), and provide biometrics if not already enrolled.

Contact Us for Guidance

Our visa specialists can guide you through every step of the Graduate Route application. Book a free consultation to get started.

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Free expert guidance from first call to enrolment. Also wondering about UK Student Finance? Check your eligibility →

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