What is the duration of stay allowed after completing my master's course in the UK?
UK Master's graduates get 2 years on the Graduate Route visa if they apply before January 1, 2027. From January 1, 2027 onward, the Graduate Route duration for Master's and Bachelor's graduates reduces to 18 months. PhD graduates retain 3 years regardless of application date. The Graduate Route requires no job offer and allows work for any employer.
The UK Graduate Route visa (post-study work visa) duration changed in January 2027 as part of the UK government's immigration policy revisions. Your stay duration depends on both your degree level and when you apply for the visa. Understanding this distinction is critical for planning your post-graduation timeline.
UK Graduate Route Visa - Duration by Application Date
| Degree Level | Applications Before 1 Jan 2027 | Applications From 1 Jan 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Master's (MSc, MA, MBA) | 2 years | 18 months |
| Bachelor's | 2 years | 18 months |
| PhD / Doctoral | 3 years | 3 years (unchanged) |
Graduate Route - Key Rules and Conditions
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer sponsorship required? | No - work for any employer, any occupation, without job offer |
| Where must you apply from? | From inside the UK (cannot apply from abroad) |
| Student visa must be valid at time of application | Yes - apply before your student visa expires |
| Can it be extended? | No - Graduate Route cannot be extended or renewed |
| Can it lead to permanent residency? | Not directly; must switch to Skilled Worker or other route first |
| Visa fee (approx.) | GBP 822 (~Rs.85,500) |
My Advice
If you are starting a UK Master's in September 2026 and completing in September 2027, your Graduate Route application will be made in late 2027 - which falls under the new 18-month rule. Plan your post-study career timeline around 18 months of graduate visa time rather than 2 years. This is sufficient to find a sponsored employer and switch to the Skilled Worker visa if you want to stay longer. The Skilled Worker visa minimum salary requirement is GBP 38,700 (as of 2024 - verify current rate before applying) - target roles and salary bands above this threshold during your 18-month Graduate Route period to ensure a smooth visa transition.
More expert answers
Yes, after completing your master's in the UK, you can stay and work under the Graduate visa. If you apply for this visa on or before 31 December 2026, you can stay for 2 years. From 1 January 2027 onwards, the stay period will be reduced to 18 months. During this time, you can work in most jobs, look for employment, or even start your own business, but you won't be eligible to work as a professional sportsperson or access most public funds. The Graduate visa cannot be extended, so if you wish to remain in the UK longer, you would need to switch to a different visa before your Graduate visa expires. If you need more details or guidance, please connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
You can stay in the country after your studies based on the country and your qualification:
- Ireland: With a master's degree, you can stay and work full-time for up to 24 months under the Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G). This includes an initial 12 months, with a possible 12-month extension if you show efforts to secure suitable employment. Rules are subject to change.
- UK: With a master's degree, if you apply for the Graduate Visa on or before 31 December 2026, you can stay for 2 years. For applications from 1 January 2027, this reduces to 18 months. The Graduate Visa is not extendable; you must switch to another visa, like the Skilled Worker visa, to stay longer.
Most full-time master's programs in the UK, such as MA, MSc, and MBA, typically last 12 months.
After completing your master's, you may be eligible for the Graduate Visa (post-study work visa):
- Apply on or before 31 December 2026: Stay for 2 years.
- Apply on or after 1 January 2027: Stay for 18 months.
These visa durations are subject to change based on UK government policy. If you want to maximize your post-study work period, aim to apply before 31 December 2026.
Will a UK master's actually pay off?
Job market, post-study work visa and PR options. Get a straight answer.
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