UK Graduate Route Visa: 18 Months Start Date Explained

So, you’ve just wrapped up your degree in the UK, and now you’re thinking: UK graduate route visa 18 months start date? If sticking around in the UK to work, explore career opportunities, or simply soak up a little more of British life sounds appealing, then the Graduate Route Visa might be your golden ticket. But what’s the deal with the 18-month start date, and how exactly does it work?

Let’s dive into everything you need to know, minus the legal jargon and confusion.

What is the UK Graduate Route Visa?

Purpose of the Graduate Route

Introduced in July 2021, the Graduate Route Visa was designed to let international students stay in the UK after finishing their studies. Think of it as the UK’s way of saying, “Hey, we like you—why not stick around a bit longer?”

Who is it for?

This visa is tailored for international students who’ve completed a UK undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral degree. It’s especially popular among students looking to work in the UK without the immediate pressure of finding a sponsor.

When UK graduate route visa 18 months start date?

Why Not 2 Years?

You might have heard that the Graduate Route is valid for 2 years. That’s mostly true—but there’s a catch. If you’ve completed a PhD or doctoral program, you get a full 3 years. However, if you’re applying outside the UK or under specific timing constraints, you may only end up with 18 months instead of 24.

UK Start Date Considerations

The start date of the Graduate Route isn’t when your student visa expires. It’s not even the day you graduate. It begins on the day your Graduate Route visa is granted. That’s super important, especially if you’re planning your move, job search, or next visa steps.

Eligibility Criteria

Let’s not sugar-coat it—you’ve got to tick a few boxes before applying.

Academic Requirements

You must have completed an eligible course in the UK.
The qualification must be awarded by a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.

Approved Institutions

Recognized Universities

This includes most universities in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You can double-check with the UKVI list of licensed sponsors.

Courses That Qualify

Bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
Doctorate (PhD)
Certain professional qualifications (check specifics!)

Visa Status Requirements

You must currently hold a valid Student visa (Tier 4) at the time of application.
You must have completed your course while holding that visa.

When Does the 18-Month Period Begin?

Official Start Date Definition

The clock starts ticking from the date the Graduate Visa is granted, not from your graduation day or the end of your student visa.

So, if you finish your degree in June but don’t apply until September and get approved in October, October is when your 18 months (or 24) begin.

Timeline Example

Date	Event
June 15	Course completed
August 1	Applied for Graduate Route
September 15	Visa granted
September 15	Graduate Visa start date
March 15 (next year)	18-month mark

Planning is everything!

Applying for the Graduate Route

When Can You Apply?

You can apply once your university confirms that you’ve completed your course. Don’t wait too long, though—you’ve got to apply before your Student visa expires.

Required Documents

Passport
Current Student visa
Confirmation of course completion (from your university)
Biometric details (photo and fingerprints)
Payment method for fees

Application Fees and Costs

Visa fee: £822 (as of 2025)
IHS surcharge: £1,035 per year

For 18 months, that’s roughly £1,550 total in health surcharge alone.

Can You Work on a Graduate Visa?

Employment Rights

Yes! You can:

Work full-time in most jobs
Take on multiple roles
Switch between employers
Work in any sector

Self-Employment and Freelancing

You’re also allowed to be self-employed, start your own business, or freelance. It’s a great time to test your entrepreneurial spirit without strict visa restrictions.

Switching to Another Visa After 18 Months

Your Graduate Visa can’t be extended. So what’s next?

Skilled Worker Route

This is the most common next step. You’ll need:

A job offer from a licensed sponsor
A minimum salary (varies by job)
To meet English language requirements

Other Visa Options

Start-up or Innovator Founder visas
Family visa (if applicable)
Global Talent visa

Plan, because that clock ticks fast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting too long to apply—do it before your student visa ends!
Assuming the visa starts on graduation day
Failing to update your address or details
Not considering a long-term visa strategy

Tips to Make the Most of Your Graduate Visa

Building a Career Path

Use this time wisely. Get into a graduate scheme, intern with big companies, or start building a portfolio. Treat this visa like a bridge to something bigger.

Networking and Volunteering

Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend job fairs, industry events, and even volunteer in your sector. Connections go a long way in the UK job market.

Final Thoughts

The UK Graduate Route Visa is an incredible opportunity—think of it as a soft landing after your studies. Whether you’re here to land your dream job, start a business, or explore the UK’s vibrant work culture, understanding the 18-month start date and its timing can make all the difference.

Don’t just let the months pass by—make every one of them count!

FAQs

1. Can I travel outside the UK on the Graduate Route Visa?
Yes, you can travel freely. Just make sure to keep records and don’t overstay outside the UK if you’re job hunting.

2. What happens if I don’t get a job within 18 months?
You’ll need to either switch to another visa category or leave the UK when your visa expires.

3. Can I bring dependents with me?
Only if they were already dependents on your Student visa.

4. Can I study on the Graduate Visa?
Yes, but only if it’s not a course that would normally require a student visa.

5. Do unpaid work or internships count?
Yes! Experience is experience. It’s all about building your profile and making connections.