UK Reduces Post-Study Work Duration for International Students from 2027

What is a Graduate Visa in UK?

The UK Graduate Visa, often referred to as the post-study work visa, allows international students to stay in the UK after they finish their degree. This allows them to work and gain valuable professional experience. To be eligible for this visa, students need to be in the UK on a valid UK Student Visa, have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD at a university recognized by the UK Home Office. Currently, this visa allows graduates to remain in the UK for two years after finishing their studies. For PhD graduates, the Graduate Visa duration is three years. However, starting from 1st January 2027, the duration of the post-study work visa in UK will be 18 months instead of 2 years. It is important to note that the visa cannot be extended as per the new rules for international students in UK 2025. Once the Graduate Visa expires, they can switch to a different visa type, such as the UK Skilled Worker Visa.

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What is the New Duration of Post Study Work Visa in UK?

As per the new rules for international students in UK 2025, the duration of post study work visa in UK has been reduced to 18 months from 2 years. This new rule will be applicable for all applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027. If any applicant applies on or before 31st December 2026, then their Graduate Visa duration will be 2 years. Note that you can not extend your Graduate visa, but you might have the option to switch to a different type of visa. Additionally, international students should be aware that the cost of studying in the UK might increase. Starting from the 2025 to 2026 academic year, the financial requirements for student visas will also increase, which means that international students will need to provide proof of having enough funds to support themselves during their studies.

Impact of Reduced Post Study Work Visa Duration on Indian Students

The number of Indian students in UK is the second highest after the Chinese students. In 2024, around 92,355 Indian students received UK study visas. However, according to UK Home Office data for the year ending June 2025, 98,014 Indian students received the UK student visa. This means that a high number of Indian students will be impacted by the reduced post study work visa duration. The following are some of the impacts expected on Indian students by the new rules for international students in UK 2025.

• Less time to find jobs: As there will be less time for international students to find a job in UK, it will be challenging for them. This means that students will have to plan and start networking, securing work placements, and internships.

• Reduced ROI: Many Indian students take loans to study in the UK, as they plan for good post-study work opportunities. Due to the shorter duration of stay could their financial expectations could become uncertain, impacting the return on investment.

• Focus on employability: Students will actively focus more on obtaining their internships and job offers before graduation. This might shift their focus from education and add pressure.

• Alternate study abroad destinations: This new rule for international students in UK 2025 might impact the aspiring student’s decision to choose UK for higher education. Applicants might focus on alternate destinations that offer more flexible visa options.

Note that students who will complete their courses before January 2027 can still take advantage of the current 2-year work rule.

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