Work Permit
Skilled Worker
Work in the UK for a Home Office–approved employer in an eligible skilled job. A route to settlement after 5 years.
- Processing time
- ~3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £819
Work PermitUK Graduate Visa
Stay in the UK to work or look for work after successfully completing your degree. No job offer needed.
- Processing
- Usually within 8 weeks
- Government fee
- From £937
- Visa length
- 2 years if you apply by 31 December 2026
Overview
The Graduate visa lets international students stay on in the UK after finishing an eligible course. You do not need a job offer or a sponsor, and you can work in most jobs, change jobs freely or be self-employed.
You must apply from inside the UK while your Student visa is still valid, after your university has told the Home Office you have completed your course.
Who can apply
The main requirements. A counsellor will check your situation in detail.
- You are in the UK on a Student (or Tier 4) visa
- You completed a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course
- Your university has reported your successful completion to the Home Office
Documents you’ll need
A typical list. We’ll give you a personal checklist in your consultation.
- Valid passport
- CAS reference number from your completed course
- Proof of your current Student visa (eVisa or BRP)
- Letter from your sponsor, if they paid your fees and living costs in the last 12 months
Fees & timing
- Processing time
- Usually within 8 weeks (you can stay in the UK while you wait)
- Visa length
- 2 years if you apply by 31 December 2026; 18 months from 1 January 2027; 3 years for PhD graduates
- Government fee
- £937 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year)
- Our service fee
- Ask us for the current figure
Government fees and processing times change. We confirm the latest figures before you apply. Source: GOV.UK , checked on 19 September 2026.
How it works
- 1
Free consultation
Tell us your plans. We explain your options and honest chances.
- 2
Your personal checklist
We list exactly what you need and review every document.
- 3
Application & biometrics
We complete the forms with you and prepare you for your appointment.
- 4
Decision & travel
We track your application and help you get ready to go.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? Ask a counsellor, it’s free.
Important information
Pick Time Consultancy is an independent consultancy. We are not part of, or endorsed by, UK Visas and Immigration, the Home Office or the Australian Department of Home Affairs. This page is general information, not legal advice, and immigration rules change often. Always check the official source before you apply.
Other UK visas
View allWork Permit
Health and Care Worker
For qualified doctors, nurses and health and adult social care professionals with a job offer from an approved UK employer.
- Processing time
- ~3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £324
Study
Student
Study a full-time course at a UK university or college that holds a student sponsor licence.
- Processing time
- ~3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £558
Talk to an expert
Get free advice on the UK Graduate Visa
Tell us a little about your situation. A counsellor will check your eligibility and explain the next steps.