When you apply for a Graduate visa you also need to prove your identity. You will usually receive a decision within eight weeks. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will notify you of the exact start and end date of your visa. Before you can submit your application You must not apply for a Graduate visa until you receive a confirmation email from the University reminding you of your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number and advising that your successful award has been reported to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Student Immigration Service reports your completed award When to apply Apply before your current visa expires You must submit your application for a Graduate visa before your Tier 4/Student visa expires. Your Graduate visa will be valid for: two years from the date of the decision if you were awarded a degree qualification three years from the date of the decision if you were awarded a PhD or a doctorate qualification If you apply for a graduate scheme Many graduate work programmes start in September and last for two years. You should plan to make your application around eight weeks before the start of a graduate work programme. Apply for a Graduate visa You need to complete the online visa application. You also have to pay the application fee and the immigration health surcharge (IHS) fee at this point. Faster processing services are not available for Graduate visa applications. You will usually receive a decision within eight weeks. Apply for the Graduate route on the government website Download our Graduate Route Visa Application Guide Document Graduate Route Visa Application Guide (2.47 MB / PDF) Prove your identity You need to prove your identity as part of the application process. Using the UK Immigration: ID Check app If you can use the free UK Immigration: ID Check app, you will be directed to scan either your passport, your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or both. You will usually be able to use the app if you have a valid EU, EEA or Swiss passport or if you hold a valid BRP. Attending a biometric appointment If you are unable to use the UK Immigration: ID Check app, you will be asked to get your fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point. Find out about UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point locations and costs Next step Go to Step 4: Wait for and receive a decision This article was published on 2024-07-29
