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Does the UK student visa allow me to stay for more than one or two years to work or live there after my studies for a Master's/PhD?

16 Jun 2026 · Answered by Rakshitha Muthukumar · 1 min read
Rakshitha Muthukumar
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After completing your Master's degree in the UK, you can stay for up to two years under the Graduate visa to work or live there. However, starting from January 1, 2027, this stay will be reduced to 18 months for Bachelor's and Master's graduates, while PhD graduates will still get a three-year Graduate visa. You must apply for the Graduate visa before your current Student visa expires, and your university needs to confirm your successful course completion to the Home Office. Please note, the Graduate visa cannot be extended, but you may have the option to switch to another visa type, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if you meet the requirements.

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