If you are about to graduate from a UK university and wondering: can I stay in the UK? for how long? which visa is best for me? Let’s break down 4 common post-study visa options that can help you remain in the UK after graduation — each with its own pros, cons and your ultimate path to permanent residency.

Graduate Visa - Post Graduate Work

This is the easiest and most straightforward option. If you’ve completed an eligible UK degree, you can apply for the Graduate Visa — no job offer, no sponsorship, no industry restriction. You’ll get a 2-year visa (or 3 years if you completed a PhD).

However, it cannot be extended or reapplied for. Most people use this time to find a company that can sponsor them for a Skilled Worker visa, which can lead to ILR after 5 years.

• Challenge: To switch to a Skilled Worker visa, your job must meet the new salary threshold — usually £38,700+
• Best for
• Candidates with international work experience (e.g., from Singapore, Hong Kong)
• STEM graduates (e.g., IT, AI, engineering)
• Those entering finance, consulting, or investment banking

Innovator Founder Visa

This visa replaced the old Start-up Visa, but with much stricter requirements. Applicants need an endorsement from an approved body, confirming their business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.

• Pros: Once approved, you can live and run your business in the UK and later apply for ILR.
• Challenge:
• Fewer endorsing bodies available
• Requires a solid, fundable business plan
• Best for:
• Graduates with a clear entrepreneurial vision
• Founders with a strong track record or business plan
• Those aiming to contribute significantly to the UK economy

Global Talent Visa

This visa is designed for individuals who show exceptional promise or talent in academia, arts and culture, or digital technology. You’ll need an endorsement from a relevant body (e.g., UKRI, Tech Nation, Arts Council). Once approved, you can get a visa for up to 5 years, with no employer or job restrictions, and apply for ILR at the end.

• Pros: High flexibility, no need for a job offer, clear ILR pathway
• Challenges:
• Requires a strong track record of achievement
• Not easy for recent graduates without published work, awards, or media coverage
• Best for:
• PhD holders or postdocs working on impactful projects
• Artists, designers, or developers with quantifiable influence
• Tech professionals with innovation portfolios

Ending

It is important to start planning at least six months before your current visa expires and to give yourself enough time to prepare for the next one.