UK Graduate Visa Shortens to 18 Months from 1 January 2027
September 2026. United Kingdom. With three months to go, GOV.UK confirms that the Graduate visa for bachelor’s and master’s graduates falls from 2 years to 18 months for applications made on or after 1 January 2027.
Key points
- Apply on or before 31 December 2026: 2 years.
- Apply on or after 1 January 2027: 18 months.
- PhD and other doctoral graduates: 3 years.
- Fee: £937, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge.
What it means for you
If you are finishing a UK degree this autumn and are eligible, check whether you can apply before the change. Note that you can only apply after your university has reported that you completed your course. See our UK guide.
Sources
News summary published 28 September 2026. Policies can change quickly after publication. Check the linked sources for the latest position. This is general information, not legal advice.
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