Journal · UK
UK Graduate visa: what the move to 18 months means for you
The UK Graduate visa stays at 2 years for anyone who applies on or before 31 December 2026. From 1 January 2027 it becomes 18 months. PhD graduates keep 3 years. If you are planning a UK master’s, the timing of your course end date now matters.
What changed
- GOV.UK says the Graduate visa lets you stay 2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months if you apply on or after 1 January 2027.
- Graduates of a PhD or other doctoral qualification can still stay 3 years.
- The change was made through the Statement of Changes HC 1333 (14 October 2025), following the May 2025 Immigration White Paper.
What it means for you
- Students finishing a one-year master’s in 2026 may still be able to apply under the 2-year rule. Check your course end date and visa timeline with your university.
- For later intakes, plan your job search from the first term: careers services, internships and the employers your course connects to.
- Eighteen months is still real time to start a career in the UK and gain international experience.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Student visa overview (Graduate visa length) (checked 10 November 2026)
- GOV.UK: Explanatory memorandum to HC 1333, 14 October 2025 (checked 10 November 2026)
Rules change. Always confirm on the official page before you act.
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