After completing my course, do I get a two-year stay-back option on the post-study visa in UK for a Master's?
Yes, your eligible Master's degree qualifies you for the Graduate Route visa. Applying on or before 31 December 2026 gives you the full 2 year stay-back option, while applying on or after 1 January 2027 reduces this to 18 months. The visa needs no sponsorship but cannot be extended.
Yes, completing an eligible Master's degree in the UK qualifies you for the Graduate Route visa, but the exact duration you get depends on exactly when you apply. Your application date matters more than your graduation date here, so plan around it carefully.
Graduate Route Visa Duration By Application Date
| When You Apply | Stay-Back Duration |
|---|---|
| On or before 31 December 2026 | 2 years |
| On or after 1 January 2027 | 18 months |
What Else You Should Know
- The Graduate Visa needs no employer sponsorship, letting you work most jobs, hold multiple jobs, or be self-employed at any skill level.
- You must apply from within the UK before your current Student Visa expires, and only after your university notifies the Home Office of your successful completion.
- The Graduate Visa cannot be extended, so you will need to transition to a visa like the Skilled Worker Visa before it runs out.
My Advice
If your graduation timing gives you any flexibility on when you submit your application, apply on or before 31 December 2026 to lock in the full 2 year window rather than the reduced 18 months.
How long can you stay and work after a UK master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
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