How long is the UK Graduate Visa valid for?

The UK Graduate Visa is valid for 2 years for Bachelor and Master degree graduates, and 3 years for PhD / doctoral graduates. No employer job offer or sponsorship is required.

Does the UK Graduate Visa count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

The Graduate Visa does not count towards the 5-year Skilled Worker ILR route, but it DOES count towards the 10-Year Long Residence ILR route.

How long is the UK Graduate Visa valid for?

The UK Graduate Visa is valid for 2 years for Bachelor and Master degree graduates, and 3 years for PhD / doctoral graduates. No employer job offer or sponsorship is required.

Does the UK Graduate Visa count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

The Graduate Visa does not count towards the 5-year Skilled Worker ILR route, but it DOES count towards the 10-Year Long Residence ILR route.

Home/Uk/Graduate Visa Eligibility Calculator

Home Office UKVI Graduate Route Rules 2025/2026

UK Graduate Visa (PSW) Eligibility & Cost Checker

Evaluate 2-year (Bachelor/Master) vs 3-year (PhD) Graduate Visa eligibility, upfront Home Office & NHS IHS fees, and 10-year ILR clock integration.

⚡ Statutory Graduate Visa Rules (2025/2026):

• Duration: 2 Years (Bachelor's / Master's) or 3 Years (PhD / Doctorate).
• No Job Offer Required: Full work rights, self-employment, and freelancing permitted. Cannot extend (must switch to Skilled Worker).
• Fees: Application Fee: £822 + NHS Health Surcharge: £1,035 / year (£2,070 for 2 yrs / £3,105 for 3 yrs).
• ILR Clock: Counts towards 10-Year Long Residence ILR (does NOT count towards 5-year Skilled Worker ILR).

Graduate Route Evaluator

GOV.UK VerifiedOfficial UK Government References & Legal Sources

• GOV.UK Graduate Visa Overview: gov.uk/graduate-visa
• Home Office Immigration Rules Appendix Graduate: gov.uk/appendix-graduate

Graduate Route Key Fees

Visa Application Fee£822

NHS IHS Rate£1,035 / yr

Sponsorship RequiredNone (100% Free)