The UK government has announced significant changes to the Graduate visa route that will affect international students planning to stay and work in the UK after completing their studies.
What's Changing?
From 1 January 2027, the Graduate visa duration for bachelor's and master's degree holders will be reduced from the current 2 years to 18 months. This means graduates will have less time to find employment and transition to a sponsored work visa.
Who Is Affected?
- Bachelor's and Master's graduates applying for the Graduate visa from 1 January 2027 onwards will receive 18 months instead of 2 years
- PhD graduates are not affected — they will continue to receive the full 3-year Graduate visa
- Students who apply before 31 December 2026 will still get the current 2-year duration
Why Is This Happening?
The UK government's review found that many Graduate visa holders had not transitioned into graduate-level employment as the route intended. The reduction aims to ensure the route is used by students who genuinely pursue professional careers in the UK.
What This Means for You
If you're planning to study in the UK for a bachelor's or master's degree, applying sooner gives you the advantage of the current 2-year post-study work window. Students who complete their courses and apply for the Graduate visa before the end of 2026 will still benefit from the full 2-year duration.
For those considering a PhD, the 3-year Graduate visa remains unchanged — making doctoral study in the UK an even more attractive option.
Other UK Immigration Changes for 2026
- Digital eVisas: The UK has fully transitioned to digital immigration status through the eVisa system
- Dependent restrictions: Only PhD or research-level students and government-sponsored scholarship holders can bring dependants
- English language requirements: Raised from B1 to B2 level for several visa categories
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Required from 25 February 2026 for visa-free visitors from 85 countries