UK PGWP - Globexa Immigration

Every year, thousands of international students dream of building a thriving career in the UK after completing their studies. The UK Post-Study Work Visa — officially known as the Graduate Route Visa — is one of the most exciting pathways for international graduates to stay, work, and grow professionally in the United Kingdom. In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know — from eligibility and benefits to application process, costs, and expert tips.

1. What Is the UK Graduate Route Visa?

The UK Graduate Route Visa is a special immigration pathway that allows international students who have completed an eligible UK degree to stay in the UK after graduation to work, look for a job, or start a business — without requiring a job offer or sponsorship at the time of application.

This visa is part of the UK Home Office’s strategy to attract and retain global talent, making the UK one of the most student-friendly destinations for international education and post-study opportunities.

2. Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the Graduate Route Visa, you must:

✔ Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, or another eligible higher education qualification at a UK university with a Home Office sponsor licence.
✔ Be in the UK at the time of application.
✔ Hold a valid Student Visa (or Tier 4 visa) at the time of application.
✔ Apply before your current Student Visa expires.
✔ Have your education provider report your successful completion to UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI).

Importantly, you do not need a job offer or sponsorship to apply — one of the biggest advantages of this route. ❗ However, you must apply from within the UK.

3. How Long Can You Stay?

The UK Graduate Visa offers a generous period of stay based on your level of qualification:

2 years — for those completing Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees.
3 years — for those completing a PhD or other doctoral qualifications.

You can stay, work, and build your professional experience during this period without sponsorship. Once your Graduate Route visa expires, you can switch to other visa categories (like the Skilled Worker visa) if you secure a job with sponsorship.

4. What Can You Do on a Graduate Route Visa?

The UK Graduate Route is extremely flexible. Here’s what you are allowed to do:

✔ Work in any job (full-time, part-time, or self-employed)
✔ Change employers or occupations
✔ Start your own business in the UK
✔ Seek skilled job opportunities
✔ Switch to a longer-term visa later (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa)
✔ Bring your dependants (only if they are already in the UK as your dependants on your Student Visa)

This visa is ideal for students who want to gain real-world global work experience without immediate pressure to secure sponsorship.

5. How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Here’s the process you need to follow to apply for the Graduate Route Visa:

1. Confirm Your Graduation

Your university must send information to the UK Home Office confirming you have successfully completed your course.

2. Check Your Current Visa

Make sure your Student Visa is still valid — you must apply before it expires.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Typical documents may include:

✔ Passport and current visa details
✔ Confirmation from your education provider
✔ Proof of course completion
✔ Biometric details

4. Apply Online

Applications are done via the UK government’s online immigration service.
You will also pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

5. Get a Decision

Once approved, you will receive your Graduate Route Visa status, allowing you to stay and work in the UK.

6. Tips for International Students

Plan ahead: Start preparing your application documents before finishing your course.
Stay informed: UK immigration rules can change — always verify with experts.
Network early: Use your study period to connect with employers and industry professionals.
Build experience: Even internships, part-time work, or volunteering can improve your job prospects.

How Globexa Immigration Can Help

At Globexa Immigration, we specialize in guiding international students through every stage of their UK journey — from student visa renewal to Graduate Route applications and long-term migration planning.

We offer:

1. Personalized eligibility assessment
2. Document preparation and review
3. Application filing and tracking
4. Post-submission support
5. Career planning guidance for switching to skilled visas

With us by your side, you don’t just apply — you build your future with confidence.