How long your Graduate visa lasts
- Two years for bachelor's and master's graduates who apply on or before 31 December 2026.
- 18 months for those who apply on or after 1 January 2027.
- Three years for PhD and other doctoral graduates.
Why switching is easier than you might think
As a current or recent Graduate visa holder you count as a “new entrant” for the Skilled Worker visa. That means your salary needs to be at least £33,400 or 70% of the going rate for the job, whichever is higher, instead of the usual £41,700. You can switch from inside the UK, and your total time on new entrant terms (including your Graduate visa) is capped at four years.
The job still has to be graduate-level (RQF level 6 or above) with a licensed sponsor, and you need English at level B2. A UK degree normally proves that.
A switching plan
- In your first months on the Graduate visa, target employers on the sponsor register, not just any role.
- Ask about sponsorship early, and make sure the role and salary qualify.
- Once you have an offer, your employer assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Apply to switch before your Graduate visa expires. Leave a margin: CoS and application processing take time.