Use this free UK Graduate visa checker to see whether you will get 2 years or 18 months. For bachelor’s and master’s graduates, the visa falls from 2 years to 18 months for applications made on or after 1 January 2027.
Rules checked: 29 September 2026. General information, not immigration advice.
UK Graduate visa length checker: 2 years or 18 months?
From 1 January 2027 the Graduate visa for bachelor’s and master’s graduates falls from 2 years to 18 months. Check which one you get. Rules checked 29 September 2026.
What the Graduate visa checker is based on
- Bachelor’s and master’s graduates who apply on or before 31 December 2026 get 2 years.
- Those who apply on or after 1 January 2027 get 18 months.
- PhD and other doctoral graduates get 3 years.
- You must apply from inside the UK while your Student visa is valid, after your university reports that you completed your course.
- The fee is £937, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge. The visa cannot be extended.
Plan your next step
Most graduates aim to switch to a Skilled Worker visa. As a new entrant you may qualify at £33,400 and 70% of the going rate. See Skilled Worker salary threshold 2026 and Graduate visa cut to 18 months.
Frequently asked questions
If I finish my master’s in December 2026, do I get 2 years?
Yes, if you apply on or before 31 December 2026 and meet the other conditions, including your university reporting that you completed your course.
Can I extend my Graduate visa?
No. You need to switch to another route, usually Skilled Worker, before it ends.