New Graduate Visa in the UK: Application Guidelines

The United Kingdom has recently launched a new graduate visa program for international students who have completed their studies in the UK. This visa allows students to stay and work in the country for up to two years after graduation, providing them with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and potentially extend their stay in the UK.

If you are an international student and are interested in applying for this visa, here are the guidelines and requirements you need to know:

Eligibility Criteria for New Graduate Visa in the UK

To be eligible for the new graduate visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must have completed an undergraduate or higher degree from a recognized UK higher education provider.
• You must have successfully completed your degree program in the UK, with an award date on or after July 1, 2021.
• You must have a valid student visa at the time of application or have left the UK after the expiry of your student visa.
• You must have a valid passport, which is not due to expire within six months of your intended arrival in the UK.
• You must be able to speak, read, and write in English to the required standard.

Application Process for New Graduate Visa in the UK

The application process for the new graduate visa in the UK involves the following steps:

1. Fill in the online application form and pay the visa fee.
2. Submit the required supporting documents online, including your passport, UK degree certificate, academic transcript, evidence of English language ability, and proof of financial capability to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
3. Attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
4. Wait for a decision on your visa application, which usually takes up to three weeks. If your application is approved, you will receive a vignette in your passport, which allows you to enter the UK.
5. Once you arrive in the UK, you must collect your biometric residence permit (BRP) within ten days. Your BRP will confirm your visa details, such as the duration and conditions of your stay.

Work and Study Rights with the New Graduate Visa in the UK

With the new graduate visa in the UK, you can work and study without any restrictions, which means you can:

• Work in any job, at any skill level, and for any employer, including self-employment. However, you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach, or undertake a paid internship as part of a government-sponsored scheme.
• Study a course at any level, including vocational courses, as long as it does not interfere with your work.

FAQs About the New Graduate Visa in the UK

Q: How long does the new graduate visa last?

A: The new graduate visa in the UK lasts for up to two years after graduation.

Q: Can I extend my stay in the UK after the new graduate visa expires?

A: You may be able to extend your stay in the UK if you meet the eligibility criteria for a different visa category, such as the Skilled Worker visa.

Q: Can I switch to the new graduate visa if I am already in the UK on a different visa?

A: No, you cannot switch to the new graduate visa if you are already in the UK on a different visa. You must leave the UK and apply for the new graduate visa from your home country.

Q: Do I need to have a job offer to apply for the new graduate visa?

A: No, you do not need to have a job offer to apply for the new graduate visa. You can apply and enter the UK without a job offer and search for work once you arrive.

Q: Can my family come with me on the new graduate visa?

A: No, your family members cannot come with you on the new graduate visa. They will need to apply for a separate visa if they wish to join you in the UK.

Conclusion

The new graduate visa in the UK provides international students with an opportunity to stay and work in the country after graduation, allowing them to gain valuable work experience and potentially extend their stay in the UK. If you are interested in this visa, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the application process guidelines outlined above.