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Do I need to find a visa sponsor to stay and work in the UK after my studies for a Master's/PhD?

22 Jul 2026 · Answered by Pushplata Gaddmwar · 1 min read
Pushplata Gaddmwar
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No, you do not need to find a visa sponsor to stay and work in the UK after your studies. The Graduate visa allows you to remain in the UK and work at any skill level or start your own business without requiring an employer sponsor or job offer. To be eligible, you must apply from within the UK on a valid Student visa and have successfully completed an eligible UK degree. The length of the Graduate visa depends on your qualification - typically 2 years for a master's degree, or 3 years if you have a PhD. If you wish to stay longer after your Graduate visa, you can explore switching to other visa routes like the Skilled Worker visa if you meet the requirements.

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Abhishek Mehta
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No, you do not need a sponsor to work in the UK immediately after your studies if you apply for the Graduate Route visa (post-study work visa). This allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to 18 months after completing your bachelor's or master's degree, without employer sponsorship.

For work beyond this period, you will need a job offer from an employer who can sponsor you under the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires the employer to have a sponsor licence and meet specific criteria.

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