Graduate Visa Solicitors with offices across Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset
A Graduate visa allows international students to remain in the UK after completing their studies at a UK institution. It provides a valuable opportunity to gain work experience, explore career options and decide on long‑term plans without needing employer sponsorship immediately.
If you are completing your studies and want to stay in the UK, a Graduate visa may be the ideal next step.
What is a Graduate Visa and who can apply?
You may be eligible to apply for a Graduate visa if you have successfully completed:
- A UK bachelor’s degree
- A postgraduate degree, such as a master’s or PhD
- Another eligible qualification completed on a UK student visa
Once granted, a Graduate visa currently allows you to:
- Remain in the UK for up to 2 years (or longer for PhD graduates)
- Work in any role, without restrictions, on any skill level or salary
- Be self-employed or take on multiple jobs
From January 2027, the length of the Graduate visa will reduce to 18 months. Graduate visas cannot be extended, so they are designed as a short-term option only, not a long-term route to settlement.
How a Graduate visa can help you
If you are currently studying in the UK and want to stay after your course has finished, a graduate visa may be the solution for you. It will give you time to start your career in the UK and consider your next steps. Individuals often use graduate visas to find a job and then discuss sponsorship with their employer if they wish to continue their careers in the UK longer term
How Trethowans can help
Our Immigration experts can guide you through every stage of the process, including:
- Confirming your eligibility
- Advising on required documents and application steps
- Ensuring you understand your visa conditions and work rights
- Exploring future immigration options before your Graduate visa expires
- Supporting discussions with employers about Skilled Worker sponsorship
- Advising on switching routes and long‑term planning
We aim to make the process as straightforward and stress‑free as possible, giving you confidence that your application is complete and compliant.
Why choose Trethowans for Graduate visa advice?
We provide:
- Clear, realistic advice based on your circumstances
- A detailed checklist of required evidence
- Support with timing your application correctly
- Guidance on next steps once your Graduate visa ends
- Professional, friendly and approachable service
We understand how important it is to make the right choices for your future in the UK.
More about Graduate visas
The Graduate route is flexible, but it does come with limitations. It does not:
- Count towards settlement
- Guarantee future sponsorship
- Allow dependants unless already eligible under your Student visa
Because it is a time‑limited option, it is important to consider your next steps early. You may also find our pages on Skilled Worker visas, Partner visas, ILR, and British Citizenship helpful.
Contact Trethowans Graduate Visa solicitors today
For expert advice on any aspect of immigration law, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experienced immigration solicitors on 0800 2800 421.
