Graduate visa cut to 18 months — filing before end-2026 still locks in 2 years
United Kingdom · Study abroad · Shortens from 2027-01-01; 2026-12-31 is the last window
| Country / region | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Category | Study abroad |
| Date | Shortens from 2027-01-01; 2026-12-31 is the last window |
| What happened | Per the immigration rule changes of 2025-10-14: the graduate visa for bachelor's and master's graduates remains 2 years if filed before 2026-12-31, dropping to 18 months from 2027-01-01; doctoral graduates remain at 3 years. The test is the filing date, not the graduation date. The application fee rose from £880 to £937 on 2026-04-08, plus the IHS (usually £1,035 per year). |
| Impact on applicants | Students graduating within 2026 should file as early as possible to lock in 2 years. Time on the graduate visa does not count toward permanent residence — move to a skilled worker visa early. |
| Source: {src} | UK Home Office / GOV.UK official guidance ↗ |
Source: UK Home Office / GOV.UK official guidance ↗ · Last verified: 2026-09-20 · For reference only; not application or legal advice. Always check the official source for current rules.
FAQ
Graduate visa cut to 18 months — filing before end-2026 still locks in 2 years — what happened?
Per the immigration rule changes of 2025-10-14: the graduate visa for bachelor's and master's graduates remains 2 years if filed before 2026-12-31, dropping to 18 months from 2027-01-01; doctoral graduates remain at 3 years. The test is the filing date, not the graduation date. The application fee rose from £880 to £937 on 2026-04-08, plus the IHS (usually £1,035 per year).
What does this mean for applicants?
Students graduating within 2026 should file as early as possible to lock in 2 years. Time on the graduate visa does not count toward permanent residence — move to a skilled worker visa early.
Where does this information come from?
UK Home Office / GOV.UK official guidance, verified by us on 2026-09-20.
Three steps and you will see the study or residency options that fit you now.
Free assessment