UK Post-Study Work Visa to Be Reduced to 18 Months from 2027 

UK Post-Study Work Visa to Be Reduced to 18 Months from 2027 

The UK Government has confirmed that international students will soon have less time to stay and work in the country after completing their studies if they are on the Post Study Work visa route.

Why Is the Change Being Introduced? 

From 1 January 2027, the Graduate visa (Post-Study Work visa) will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months for most new applicants. The reduction is part of the UK’s wider immigration reform, aimed at tightening visa routes while encouraging faster transition into skilled employment.

• Those who apply on or before 31 December 2026 will still qualify for the current 2-year stay, while PhD and doctoral graduates will continue to receive 3 years. 

Government data shows that many graduates were not moving into graduate-level roles within the 2-year window. The Home Office therefore plans to shorten the period to 18 months to “focus on employability outcomes and better manage migration levels.” 

Graduate Visa Eligibility and Application Requirements 

To qualify for the Graduate visa, applicants must: 

• Hold a valid Student visa
• Have completed an eligible UK degree or higher-education course. 
• Be inside the UK when applying. 
• Have their education provider confirm successful course completion to the Home Office. 
• The Graduate visa cannot be extended, but holders may switch to another visa type, such as the Skilled Worker visa, once they secure qualifying employment. 

When Will It Take Effect? 

The 18-month limit applies to Graduate visa applications submitted from 1 January 2027. Applications submitted before 31 December 2026 will still receive the full 2-year permission. 

What Does the Change Mean for Students? 

Students planning to remain in the UK after graduation are encouraged to apply under current rules before the new timeframe begins. Despite the reduced duration, the Graduate visa will still allow graduates to: 

• Work full-time or part-time in any role. 
• Be self-employed or start a business. 
• Switch to a Skilled Worker visa once they meet sponsorship criteria. 

Get Expert Help with Your Visa Application 

If you’re planning to study, work, or remain in the UK after graduation, our immigration lawyers can guide you through the Graduate visa application or Skilled Worker visa transition process. +44 (0)333 414 9244 or contact us online for professional advice today.