United Kingdom · study · guide
UK Graduate visa: requirements and costs
This visa is for international students who have completed an eligible degree in the UK and want to stay to work.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 11 requirements on the official page, each checked against the government's own wording. Updated 2026-10-02. Source: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa
Who can apply
To apply, your current visa must be a Student visa or a Tier 4 (General) student visa. You must also be physically located in the UK when you submit your application.[1][2]
You must have studied an eligible UK degree or course for a minimum required period of time under your student visa. Your university or college must also notify the Home Office that you successfully completed your course.[3][4]
What you need to show
You must submit your application for the Graduate visa online. You must prove your identity and submit your supporting documents as part of the application process.[5][6]
You may need to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if you are studying or researching sensitive subjects.[7]
Costs and money
You must pay an application fee of £937. You must also pay the healthcare surcharge, which is typically £1,035 for each year you will spend in the UK.[8][9]
Timing
You must submit your application before your current Student or Tier 4 visa expires. You will typically receive a decision on your visa within 8 weeks after applying, proving your identity, and submitting your documents.[10][11]
Checklist
- Apply online before your current Student or Tier 4 visa expires.[5][10]
- Be physically located in the UK when you submit your application.[2]
- Confirm your university has notified the Home Office of your course completion.[4]
- Prove your identity and submit your supporting documents.[6]
- Pay the £937 application fee and the healthcare surcharge.[8][9]
Questions people ask
Can I apply for the Graduate visa from outside the UK?
No. You must be physically located in the UK when you submit your application.[2]
How much does the UK Graduate visa cost?
You must pay an application fee of £937. You must also pay the healthcare surcharge, which is typically £1,035 for each year you will spend in the UK.[8][9]
When should I apply for the Graduate visa?
You must submit your application before your current Student or Tier 4 visa expires. You must also wait until your university or college has notified the Home Office that you successfully completed your course.[10][4]
How long does it take to get a decision on the Graduate visa?
You will typically receive a decision on your visa within 8 weeks after applying, proving your identity, and submitting your documents.[11]
Do I need an ATAS certificate for the Graduate visa?
You may need to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if you are studying or researching sensitive subjects.[7]
How do I submit my application?
You must submit your application for the Graduate visa online. You must also prove your identity and submit your supporting documents.[5][6]
This explains what one official page says. It is not legal advice, and the page itself is the authority. Rules change; the wire reports it when they do.