How long can I stay in the UK after completing my bachelor's degree if I apply for the post-study work visa on or before 31 December 2026?
Yes, if you apply for the UK Graduate visa on or before 31 December 2026, you can stay and work in the UK for 2 years after your bachelor's degree. Applications from 1 January 2027 onward only get 18 months, and the visa cannot be extended once granted.
If you submit your UK Graduate visa application on or before 31 December 2026, and you meet the eligibility rules, you can stay and work in the UK for 2 years after your bachelor's degree.
UK Graduate Visa Duration by Application Date
| Application Date | Visa Duration |
|---|---|
| On or before 31 December 2026 | 2 years |
| On or after 1 January 2027 | 18 months |
| Course requirement | At least 12 months of UK study on a Student permission for courses longer than 12 months |
What You Need Before You Apply
You must be in the UK when you apply, and your university needs to confirm to the Home Office that you completed your course, so you do not have to wait for your official graduation ceremony. The Graduate visa itself cannot be extended, but you may later switch into a route such as the Skilled Worker visa if you qualify.
My Advice
Apply as early as possible once your university confirms completion, since decision timing does not change your 2 year entitlement as long as you applied by 31 December 2026. Start your job search well before the visa begins, since 2 years passes quickly once you are working.
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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