Graduate Visa
Stay in the UK after your studies — and build your future.
The Graduate Visa allows international students who’ve completed a degree in the UK to remain in the country for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD holders) to live, work, or explore business opportunities. At E&S Consultancy UK Limited, we help you make the most of your Graduate Visa — and guide you on how to transition into a longer-term visa that suits your career or entrepreneurial goals.
What Is the Graduate Visa?
The UK Graduate Visa is designed for recent international graduates who have completed a qualifying course at a UK university. It gives you the right to stay in the UK without needing a job offer or sponsorship, allowing time to gain experience, build your career, or explore starting a business.
Who Can Apply?
- You may be eligible if:
- You completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD at a licensed UK university
- Your university has reported your course completion to the Home Office
- You’re currently in the UK with a valid Student visa
- You apply within the permitted timeframe after your graduation
Key Benefits
- Work freely in most jobs without a sponsor
- Start a business or freelance (no restrictions on employment type)
- Bring dependants if they were already with you as a student
- Switch later to a Skilled Worker, Self-Sponsorship, or Innovator Founder visa
- No job offer needed to apply
Important Limitations
- The Graduate Visa does not lead directly to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
- It cannot be extended beyond 2 or 3 years
- You must switch to another visa before it expires if you wish to stay long-term
How We Help
- At E&S Consultancy UK, we support you with:
- Graduate Visa applications and checking eligibility
- Preparing documents and helping you submit from within the UK
- Advising on how to transition to long-term visa routes
- Planning your business-based immigration journey (Self-Sponsorship or Innovator Founder)
- Supporting dependants who wish to stay with you
Ideal Next Steps After Graduate Visa
| Option | For Graduates Who Want To: |
|---|---|
| Self-Sponsorship Visa. | Start and work in their own UK business |
| Innovator Founder Visa | Launch an innovative, scalable business |
| Skilled Worker Visa | Get sponsored by a UK employer |
| Global Talent Visa | Build a career in tech, research, or the arts (if eligible) |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the Graduate Visa last?
2 years for most graduates, and 3 years for PhD or doctoral-level qualifications.
2. Can I work full-time?
Yes. You can work in most jobs, including as a freelancer, self-employed person, or business founder.
3. Can I switch to another visa before it expires?
Yes. We help clients switch to Self-Sponsorship, Skilled Worker, Innovator Founder, or Global Talent routes — all of which can lead to settlement.
4. Can I bring my family with me?
Only if they were already your dependants during your Student visa. New dependants cannot be added to a Graduate Visa.
5. When should I start planning my next visa?
We recommend starting 6 to 12 months before your Graduate Visa expires to allow enough time to meet business or sponsorship requirements.
Graduate Visa UK Services | E & S Consultancy
The Graduate Visa UK offers international students the opportunity to remain in the United Kingdom following the successful completion of a UK degree. This visa allows graduates to live, work, or seek employment in the UK for up to two years, or three years for doctoral graduates.
At E & S Consultancy, we provide expert guidance for graduates navigating this route, ensuring your application meets all the requirements for approval under the most current immigration rules.
What Is the Graduate Visa UK?
The Graduate Visa UK is designed for international students who have completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider with a track record of compliance.
Key Features:
- Post-study stay: Remain in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates)
- Work flexibility: Work in any job at any skill level, without requiring a sponsor
- Switching options: Later switch to other UK visa routes such as the Skilled Worker Visa or Innovator Founder Visa
- Eligibility: Completion of a degree-level qualification or higher from a licensed UK institution
At E & S Consultancy, our role is to ensure your application is accurate, timely, and aligned with all Home Office expectations.
Read More
Graduate Dependent Visa | E & S Consultancy
- A spouse, civil partner or unmarried partner (living together for at least two years)
- Children under 18
- In limited cases, children over 18 who were previously granted permission as dependents
Benefits of the Graduate Visa and Dependent Visa
- Work and Study Flexibility: Both graduates and dependents may work or study freely in the UK
- Family Unity: Keep your family together while pursuing post-study opportunities
- Healthcare Access: Dependents are eligible for NHS healthcare
- No Sponsorship Needed: The Graduate Visa does not require a sponsoring employer, unlike many other work routes
How to Apply for the Graduate Visa UK and Graduate Dependent Visa
- Your UK degree certificate
- Confirmation from your education provider
- Evidence of relationship (for dependents)
- Financial documentation (if applicable)
Why Choose E & S Consultancy for Your Graduate Visa UK Needs?
Begin Your Graduate Visa or Graduate Dependent Visa Application Today
Stay. Work. Plan Your Future.
The Graduate Visa is your opportunity to launch your career or test your business ideas in the UK. But time flies — so make every month count. Let us help you secure the right strategy to remain in the UK permanently.
Book a free consultation with E&S Consultancy UK Limited today and get expert guidance tailored to your goals.