Last Updated on August 30, 2025
The UK has consistently been one of the top choices for Indian students to study in UK, and for obvious reasons, such as the quality of education, globally recognised universities, and a diverse culture. But one common worry remains: “What happens after I finish my degree? Do I have to return home immediately?” That’s where the UK Post Study Work Visa comes in. Officially called the Graduate Route, this visa allows international students to stay back after graduation, work freely, and even prepare for long-term settlement. For Indian students, it means a smoother transition from university to career.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from eligibility and application to jobs and fees.
Latest Updates on Post Study Work Visa in UK
Following are some of the latest updates on post study work visa in the UK-
- Reduction in Duration: It has been proposed to reduce the Graduate Route duration to 18 months for most graduates and retain 3 years for PhD graduates, starting May 2025.
- Reason for Change: To curb immigration and manage the immigration system.
What is a PSW Visa UK?
A post study work visa in UK is officially known as a Graduate Route Visa. It allows international students to stay back in the UK after completing their degree. Let’s gloss over some key facts relevant to a PSW in UK-
Duration
- 2 years for undergraduates & postgraduates
- 3 years for PhD graduates
| Work Rights | Full-time or part-time in any role, no employer sponsorship required. |
| Flexibility | Switch jobs, explore industries, or even become self-employed. |
| Application Timing | Must apply before your Tier 4/Student Visa expires. |
Benefits of Post Study Work Visa in UK
Getting a post study work visa in UK opens up more than just extra time in the country; it gives Indian students a real chance to shape their future. Here’s why it matters:
- You can stay back for 2–3 years without the stress of finding immediate sponsorship.
- Freedom to work in any role, full-time, part-time, or even freelance.
- Use this period to switch industries or experiment with different jobs.
- UK work experience on your CV instantly boosts employability.
- Repay education loans faster and handle living expenses comfortably.
- A PSW in UK essentially acts as a stepping stone toward skilled worker visas and permanent residency (PR).
- Finally, it’s a great time to network and build professional contacts.
Eligibility Criteria To Qualify For A Post Study Visa UK
To qualify for a UK Graduate Visa, you need to meet certain requirements, which are as follows:
- Apply from inside the UK.
- Hold a valid Student visa (or Tier 4 visa).
- Completed a UK degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD or certain professional qualifications like PGCE, law conversion courses).
- Your university must confirm course completion to the Home Office.
Post Study Work Visa in the UK Duration
| Qualification | Visa Duration | Extension Possible? |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 years | No |
| Master’s Degree | 2 years | No |
| PhD or Doctoral Degree | 3 years | No |
Note: Once the visa ends, you must switch to another visa (like Skilled Worker) if you want to stay longer.
How to Apply for Post Study Work Visa in UK?
The process is simple and student-friendly:
- Apply online through the UK Home Office website.
- Pay the application fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Prove your ID:
- Either use the UK Immigration ID Check app, or
- Visit a UKVCAS service point to submit biometrics.
- Wait for a decision – usually within 8 weeks.
Note: You can stay in the UK while waiting for your decision.
Documents Required for Post Study Work Visa in UK
Keep these ready before applying:
- Valid passport.
- CAS number from your Student visa.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or eVisa share code.
- Proof of relationship for dependants (if applicable).
- Translations for non-English documents.
Post Study Work Visa in UK Fees
| Cost Type | Amount |
| Application Fee | £880 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year |
| Total (2 years – UG/PG) | £2,950 |
| Total (3 years – PhD) | £3,985 |
Note: NHS workers in healthcare roles may be eligible for an IHS refund.
Jobs After Post Study Work Visa in UK for Indian Students
This visa gives you the flexibility to work in any field. Many students use it to get valuable experience before moving to a sponsored role.
High-Demand Sectors:
- IT & Computer Science – software engineers, data analysts.
- Finance & Accounting – banking, auditing, consulting.
- Healthcare – nurses, doctors, allied health professionals.
- Engineering – mechanical, civil, electrical roles.
- Business & Management – HR, operations, marketing.
Average starting salary: £25,000–£35,000 depending on field and company.
This visa is a stepping stone; most students later switch to a Skilled Worker visa once they secure a sponsored job.
What You Can and Cannot Do on a Post Study Visa UK?
Here’s what you can and cannot do while being on a UK Post Study Work Visa–
Allowed:
- Work in almost any job.
- Be self-employed.
- Volunteer.
- Travel freely in and out of the UK.
- Bring dependants (if they were already on your Student visa).
Not Allowed:
- Claim public benefits.
- Work as a professional sportsperson.
- Extend the visa directly.
- Add new dependants from abroad.
Transition After Post Study Work Visa in UK
Since the Graduate Route cannot be extended, you’ll need to think ahead.
- Skilled Worker Visa- Most students switch to this after finding a sponsored job.
- PR/ILR Pathway- Skilled Worker Visa counts toward permanent residency.
- Other options- Depending on your career, you may also explore Innovator or Start-up visas.
Note: The smart move is to start job hunting early during your Graduate Route visa.
Conclusion
The Post Study Work Visa in UK is a golden opportunity for Indian students. It gives you freedom, flexibility, and time to build a career abroad. With no sponsorship requirement, it removes the biggest stress students usually face after graduation.
For those planning to study in UK for Indian students, the Graduate Route works like a bridge between university life and long-term settlement. Combined with the strong education system in UK, it’s one of the best pathways for international graduates.
If you are someone who needs guidance on UK student visas, the UK Graduate Visa, or career options, connect with Admissify experts today and make your UK dream a reality.
FAQs
No, you must be in the UK to apply.
No, a job offer is not required.
Yes, but only if they were already dependants on your Student visa.
Not directly. You need to switch to Skilled Worker or another long-term visa for PR.
No, the PSW in UK (Graduate Route) is not closing in 2025, though policy reviews are ongoing.
The PSW visa in the UK lasts 2 years for UG/PG students and 3 years for PhD graduates.
To be eligible for PGWP in the UK, you must complete a UK degree on a valid Student visa.
A post-study work visa in the UK costs £880 plus £1,035 per year for IHS.
Manasvi’s writing abilities stem from her previous experience working with bootstrap start-ups, advertising and PR agencies, as well as freelancing. She is currently employed as a Content Writer and Editor at Admissify, contributing to its thriving ecosystem.
