What are the post-study work permit durations and PR pathways in the UK for Master's and PhD graduates?
19 Jun 2026 · Answered by Shairal Pathak · 1 min read
For UK post-study work, you can get a Graduate Visa lasting 2 years if you apply by 31 December 2026, or 18 months if you apply after that. PhD holders get 3 years. The Graduate Visa doesn’t count towards permanent residency. To pursue PR, you’ll need to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa and stay for 5 years before applying for indefinite leave to remain. Plan your application timings carefully.
More expert answers
For the UK, master's graduates are currently eligible for a 2-year post-study work visa (Graduate Visa), but this will reduce to 18 months for applications submitted from 1 Jan 2027. PhD graduates can get a 3-year visa.
In Canada, if you complete a master's program of at least 8 months (from 15 Feb 2024), you are eligible for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). For other programs:
- 8 months to <2 years: PGWP matches program length
- 2 years or more: 3-year PGWP
Work permit durations are subject to change. For guidance on your specific situation, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
Still have doubts?
Speak to a LeapScholar expert — free, no obligations.
4.7/5 Google
🎓 25K+ admits
Book Free Counselling Session
Related topics
More Post-study work questions
- Is Germany the best first priority country for my course and career scope for a Master's?
- Can I pursue an MBA abroad after completing a Bachelor of Science degree?
- Does the agency provide end-to-end services including visa, loan guidance, and accommodation?
- Do I need to show living expenses in my bank account for visa purposes, and can I withdraw it after reaching Ireland?
- Can you explain the difference between Germany and Ireland regarding dependent visas and family stay for a PhD?
- Are golden visas available after education, and what are the eligibility criteria in UAE for a Master's/PhD?
- Are recommendation letters from college professors acceptable for my application for a MBA?
- What are the differences in career opportunities and PR options between Germany and Canada?
More UK questions
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- How do US universities evaluate Indian LLM applicants differently from UK or European law schools?
- What is the fee range for a one-year MBA course compared to a two-year course in UK?
- Is the USA the best country option for my AI or data science master's program, or should I consider other countries in UK/Canada?
- What scholarships are available for Cybersecurity Master's programs in UK universities?
- Which universities in the UK offer MS Accounting & Finance for a B.Tech Computer Engineering graduate and ₹40 lakhs budget?
- Which course are you planning to do abroad in UK for a Master's/MBA?
- Is it better to apply for UK or consider other countries for my master's in business analytics in Australia/Canada?
Book a free counselling call
Book Now