Graduate Visa Support

Make the most of your Graduate Visa.

The Graduate Visa gives you 2–3 years to work in the UK after your studies — but the clock starts the moment you graduate. ResumeSpark Stay helps you turn that window into a sponsored career.

  • Sponsorship readiness score tailored to Graduate Visa holders
  • Visa expiry tracker with renewal reminders
  • ATS-optimised CV for UK sponsor employers
  • AI cover letters that signal sponsorship needs clearly
  • Curated list of UK employers that hire Graduate Visa talent

What the Graduate Visa is

The Graduate Visa is a UK route for international students who have completed an eligible course. It lets you stay and work (or look for work) for two years after a bachelor's or master's, and three years after a PhD.

It's an unsponsored route — you don't need a job offer to apply. But it's also non-renewable: at the end of your Graduate Visa you must switch to another route, typically the Skilled Worker visa, or leave the UK.

Educational guidance — possible pathways after Graduate Visa

The most common pathway is switching to a Skilled Worker visa with a licensed sponsor employer. This requires a job offer that meets the salary threshold and skill level set by the Home Office.

Other possible pathways include Global Talent (for exceptional researchers, technologists or artists), Innovator Founder, or dependant routes. General information only — always consult a regulated adviser for advice on your circumstances.

How ResumeSpark Stay helps Graduate Visa holders

We focus on the two things that matter most: making your CV sponsor-friendly and helping you find employers who actually sponsor. Our readiness score combines your visa timeline, degree level and target roles into a single, actionable view.

Run the questionnaire to see possible pathways for your situation, then unlock the full report for a personalised action checklist and curated UKVI resource links.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Visa valid?
Two years for bachelor's and master's graduates; three years for PhD graduates. It is non-extendable.
Can I switch from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker?
Yes — this is a common pathway. You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor that meets the Skilled Worker salary and skill requirements. Eligibility depends on your specific role; speak to a regulated adviser.
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Graduate Visa?
No. The Graduate Visa is unsponsored. You can apply with no offer in hand, then job-search once you're on it.
ResumeSpark Stay is an educational and career-support platform. We do not provide legal or immigration advice. Information provided is general guidance only.