1 day ago

UK Graduate Visa Will Shrink to 18 Months in 2027

The UK lets many international students stay after graduation to work without needing an employer to sponsor them immediately.

This permission is called the Graduate Route.

From January 1, 2027, most new applications will give graduates 18 months instead of two years.

Students who apply before that date may still receive two years.

Their university must first confirm that they successfully completed their course.

PhD and other doctoral graduates will still receive three years.

The shorter period gives graduates less time to find a job and move to a sponsored Skilled Worker visa.

The article says the UK remains an option for students, but they should plan their study and application dates carefully.

Key facts

Change date: January 1, 2027
New duration: 18 months for most Graduate Route applications submitted on or after the change date
Current duration: Two years for eligible applications submitted before January 1, 2027
Doctoral graduates: Three years of post-study work permission, unaffected by the change
Deadline basis: The application date, rather than the graduation date
Course completion: The university must confirm successful completion to the Home Office before a valid application can be made
Potential next step: Graduates may use the Graduate Route to seek employer sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa

telegraphindia.com · 1 day ago