If you’re an international graduate, there are several options available to help you stay in the country. The most appealing is the Graduate route visa, which gives alumni extended time to live, work, and gain experience in the UK. Oluwadamilola Samiat Iyanda, who graduated from BCU in 2024, offers first-hand insights into the rules and benefits.
The Graduate route visa – A background
One of the most exciting benefits of completing your studies in the UK is the Graduate route visa, commonly referred to as the post-study work visa. It offers alumni up to two years (three for doctoral researchers) to live, work and gain experience in the UK after you graduate.
However, it’s important that you continue to check for updates as immigration rules can change.
What you can do with the Graduate route visa
One of the best things about this route is that, unlike the Student visa, there is no hourly limit on how much you can work. The Graduate route visa allows you to be employed on a full-time, part-time or voluntary basis.
It also offers you the chance to change jobs easily; you don’t need your employer to sponsor you or inform the Home Office when you change jobs. This flexibility is intentional, as the UK wants international graduates to contribute to the economy across all sectors – not just in their specific field of study.
The Graduate route visa also allows you to start your own business and be self-employed.
What you cannot do with the Graduate route visa
Because the visa is primarily designed for work, it does not allow you to start a new course of study (aside from short courses). Other options that are excluded are:
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Working as a professional sportsperson or coach
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Training or working as a doctor or dentist, unless you hold the relevant professional qualification
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Claim certain public funds, such as income-related benefits or state
Switching to a longer-term visa
As the Graduate route visa is temporary, it’s designed to be a stepping stone. Once your time has expired, it cannot be renewed, so you must switch to a different visa category to stay in the UK.
It’s vital that you don’t leave this to the last minute. Ideally, start exploring your options six-to-nine months before your Graduate route visa expires. Finding a sponsorship employer takes time and visa processing can take several months. It’s best to submit your new visa application before your current one expires.
Here are some of the visas you can subsequently apply for:
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Skilled Worker visa, the most common route, in which you are sponsored by an employer
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Global Talent visa, applicable if you are a recognised leader in your field
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Innovator visa, if you’re starting a business
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Family visa, if you have a family member who is a British citizen or settled person.
Final thoughts
The Graduate route visa is an incredible gift, so make the most of it. It’s a window of opportunity to build experience, earn and decide where you want your career to go. However, remember it’s a bridge rather than a destination. Use the time wisely, plan ahead for what comes next and don’t be afraid to reach out for advice.
For more information on UK government guidance, visit gov.uk/graduate-route.
