UK Sets Conditions for Graduate Visa Eligibility

The UK government has released four conditions that international students must meet to qualify for a graduate visa, which allows holders to remain in the UK for a minimum of 18 months after completing an eligible course. These requirements, applicable to applications made in 2026, state that the applicant must be physically present in the UK at the time of application.

Additionally, the applicant's current visa must be a Student visa or a Tier 4 (General) student visa. They must have studied a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree, or another eligible course for the required minimum period under the aforementioned visa types.

Furthermore, the applicant's educational provider must have notified the Home Office that the applicant has completed their course. The government advises applicants to confirm with their education provider if their course completion has been reported.

The Graduate visa is intended to provide international students time to seek employment or explore opportunities in the UK without needing to leave immediately after their studies.