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Study Abroad Content Specialist
The UK Graduate Visa, also known as the 2-Year Stay Back Program, allows Indian students to remain in the UK after completing their studies. Students can stay for at least two years to work, look for employment, or start their own business, with this visa. The applicants of UK Graduate Visa should already be inside the UK. These applicants must hold a valid UK Student Visa or Tier 4 visa. Explore the eligibility criteria, fees, application process and more.
Also Check: UK Work Visa
What is UK Graduate Visa?
The UK Graduate Visa permits international students to stay in the UK for:
- 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s degree holders.
- 3 years for doctoral graduates (PhDs).
This visa provides an opportunity for students to gain work experience in the UK without requiring employer sponsorship. This makes it a valuable route for gaining international work experience. However, it cannot be extended. Students who wish to stay longer may switch to another visa, like the Skilled Worker visa, if eligible.
Know More: Job Opportunities in UK for Indian Students
Eligibility Criteria for UK Graduate Visa
To be eligible for the UK Graduate Visa, students must meet the following conditions:
- Currently Residing in the UK: Applications can only be made from within the UK.
- Holding a Student Visa: Applicants must hold a valid UK Student Visa or Tier 4 visa.
- Course Completion: The applicant must have completed an eligible course with their current Student or Tier 4 visa.
- Education Provider Confirmation: The institution (university or college) should confirm course completion with the UK Home Office.
Note: Students can check with their university if they are uncertain about their status.
Some of the eligible courses for 2 years stay back program in UK are as follows:
UK Graduate Visa Application Process
Here are the steps to apply for the UK Graduate Visa:
- Check Eligibility: Verify eligibility based on your course and ensure the education provider has informed the Home Office of course completion.
- Apply Online: Submit your application before the Student or Tier 4 visa expires.
- Identity Verification: Depending on your application, you may need to provide biometric details at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UKVCAS) center.
- Pay Required Fees: Payment of application and healthcare surcharge fees is essential to submit the application.
Tip: Make sure to apply as soon as the university confirms course completion to avoid any visa gaps.
UK Graduate Visa Document Requirements
- Passport or Travel Document: Valid ID with photo and nationality information.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Provided by your education institution during your original student visa application.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If issued with the original Student or Tier 4 visa.
Additional documents may include proof of family relationships if applying with dependants, or permission from your scholarship provider if they sponsored your education within the last 12 months.
Also Check: Part Time Jobs in UK
UK Graduate Visa Fees
The fees for the UK Graduate Visa for 2 year stay-back program include:
| Fee Type | Fee Amount (GBP) | Equivalent Fee for Indians (INR)* |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | £822 | 89,678 |
| Healthcare Surcharge | £1,035 per year (approx.) | 1.12 lakhs |
If you are eligible for a Graduate visa for 2 years, the cost will be £2,070 (INR 2.25 lakhs). For a 3-years visa, the cost is £3,105 (INR 3.38 lakhs).
*Considering: 1 GBP = 109 INR.
The healthcare surcharge allows visa holders access to NHS healthcare services during their stay.
Note: Healthcare professionals working in public sector roles may be eligible for a healthcare surcharge refund.
Explore: Popular Job Sectors in UK
UK Graduate Visa Employment and Work Rights
With a Graduate Visa, students have full work rights, enabling them to:
- Work in Most Jobs: Graduates can apply for jobs across various sectors.
- Start a Business: Self-employment is allowed.
- Continue Studies (Limited): Students can pursue courses that don’t require a Student Visa.
- Volunteering: Graduates may engage in unpaid or volunteer work.
However, certain restrictions apply:
- Public Benefits: The visa does not grant eligibility for most public funds or state pensions.
- Professional Sports: Graduates cannot work as professional sportspersons.
For students in healthcare and social services, the Health and Care Worker Visa might offer a better option with lower fees and exemption from the healthcare surcharge.
Also Check: Work While Studying in UK
Staying Beyond the Graduate Visa Period
While the Graduate Visa cannot be extended, students can consider alternative visa routes to continue living in the UK:
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa for UK | Students with a job offer from a licensed UK employer. | Can lead to permanent residency. |
| Innovator or Start-up Visa | Graduates with business ideas and backing from endorsing bodies in the UK. | Opportunity to establish a business in the UK. |
| Health and Care Worker Visa | Graduates in healthcare roles. | Longer stay, fewer fees, and additional benefits. |
| Global Talent Visa | Highly skilled individuals in research, science, and other specialized fields. | Flexible work options for experts in their field. |
Tip: Graduates interested in these visas should explore requirements early to ensure a smooth transition after the Graduate Visa ends.
Dependants on the UK Graduate Visa
Graduates can bring their spouse, partner, or children under the age of 18 as dependants. However, dependants must already be in the UK on a dependant visa to qualify.
Financial Requirements for Dependants on Graduate Visa
Dependants do not need to provide proof of funds if they have been in the UK for over 12 months. New applicants or those in the UK for less than 12 months must demonstrate they have funds to support themselves.
Dependants on Graduate Visa Application Timeline:
- Application Period: Apply before the current Student or Tier 4 visa expires.
- Decision Timeline: Usually within 8 weeks from the application date.
Graduates are allowed to stay in the UK while waiting for a decision on their Graduate Visa. Upon approval, the Graduate Visa will begin from the date of approval, allowing for an immediate start in employment or other activities.
Also Check: UK Dependent Visa
Important considerations for UK Graduate Visa:
- Studying on the Graduate Visa: Graduates can study but only in courses that don’t qualify for a Student Visa. For courses requiring a Student Visa, it’s essential to apply for an extension under the Student Visa category.
- COVID-19 Exceptions: Graduates who studied remotely due to COVID-19 may still qualify, provided they meet certain UK entry deadlines based on course length.
Know More: Scholarships to Study in UK
The UK Graduate Visa is an advantageous pathway for international students, providing valuable work experience and exposure. For students planning a career or life in the UK, this visa offers a significant stepping stone, potentially leading to long-term residency through alternate visa routes like the Skilled Worker Visa.
Graduates should make full use of this period to build their professional network and explore career options across sectors. For specific eligibility details or support during the application process, consulting with a university advisor or immigration expert can be beneficial.
FAQs
Ques. Is the UK cancelling a 2-year post-study work visa (PSW) for international students?
Ans. No, the UK is not cancelling the 2-year post study work visa for international students. According to Times of India, the UK government has reversed its decision to restrict the post study work visa. Indian students planning to study in UK to get a post study work visa afterwards can proceed without any hesitation.
Ques. What happens after the UK Graduate Visa expires, following 2 years of work post-graduation?
Ans. After the expiry of UK Graduate visa, you can get other visas in the UK. You can get the Skilled Worker Visa to stay in the UK with a sponsored visa from the employer. You can otherwise get the General Work Visa, or Entrepreneur or Start-up Visa, depending on your profession.
Ques. How much is the acceptance rate of a UK graduate visa?
Ans. UK graduate visa reportedly has an acceptance rate of 98%. If you satisfy all the eligibility criteria, changes are high that you will receive the Graduate Route visa.
Ques. Can I bring my family to the UK on a post study work visa?
Ans. Yes, you can bring your family to the UK on a post-study work visa but with certain conditions. If your partner and/or children are already stasying with you in the UK as dependants while you are on a study visa, they can maintain the visa status. If your children takes birth while you are staying in the UK, they can stay with you as dependants. However, no new dependant can join you from outside the UK, while on 2 years post study work visa in UK.
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