Complete Overview of UK Graduate Visa Rules 2025 and Student Visa Updates

The United Kingdom remains one of the most preferred destinations for international students thanks to its globally recognized universities, high academic standards, and excellent post-study opportunities. However, if you plan to study or stay back after completing your degree, it is essential to understand the UK Graduate Visa Rules 2025.

These updated rules include new financial requirements, changes to dependent eligibility, academic compliance, and future expectations under the evolving UK student and graduate visa rules comparison. This guide provides a detailed explanation of all the updates, including a clear comparison of old vs. new student and graduate visa rules.

1. Introduction to the UK Graduate Visa Rules 2025

The Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed their course in the UK to stay and gain work experience. The 2025 rule updates aim to:

• Strengthen visa compliance.

• Ensure fairness for genuine students.

• Support the UK’s long-term workforce requirements.

• Improve the connection between education and employment.

This route continues to be particularly helpful for students seeking international work experience or planning their long-term career in the UK.

2. Key Changes in the UK Student and Graduate Visa Rules

The UK immigration system has been updated for 2025 to improve transparency, strengthen compliance, and align with changing economic needs.

Comparison of Previous Rules vs Updated Rules (Converted from Table to Points)

Post-Study Work Duration

• Previous:

  • 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates

  • 3 years for PhD graduates

• Updated:

  • Duration remains the same, but with stricter monitoring and compliance checks

Eligibility Criteria

• Previous: Completion from any recognized UK institution

• Updated: Must graduate from an approved and compliant UK university

Dependents

• Previous: Most postgraduate students could bring dependents

• Updated: Only PhD and research-based postgraduate students can bring dependents

Work Hours During Study

• Previous: 20 hours per week during term

• Updated: Same limit, but stricter monitoring from universities and the Home Office

Maintenance Funds

• Previous: Lower financial requirement

• Updated: Higher financial proof required for all students

Switching to Skilled Worker Visa

• Previous: Allowed easily after graduation

• Updated: Still allowed, but higher salary and skill-level criteria apply

Tuition Fee Proof

• Previous: Deposit proof was sufficient

• Updated: Full or majority fee payment proof required before CAS is issued

Application Fees

• Previous: Standard visa fee and IHS charges

• Updated: Expected increase in both visa fee and healthcare surcharge

English Proficiency

• Previous: IELTS or equivalent accepted

• Updated: Higher emphasis on verified English ability and test authenticity

Biometric Verification

• Previous: In-person biometric appointment

• Updated: Transitioning to digital verification through the UKVI mobile app

3. Eligibility Criteria for the Graduate Visa 2025

To qualify for the Graduate Route in 2025, students must:

• Hold a valid Student Visa at the time of applying.

• Complete a degree or an eligible qualification from an approved UK institution.

• Apply within the UK before their Student Visa expires.

• Provide official proof of course completion.

• Meet updated financial maintenance requirements.

• Maintain full compliance throughout their course (attendance, progress, etc.).

4. Maintenance Fund Requirements (Converted to Points)

From 2025, students must show increased financial proof to support themselves in the UK.

Updated Monthly Financial Requirement

• Studying in London:

  • Previous: £1,334 per month

  • New: £1,600 per month

  • Duration: 9 months

• Studying outside London:

  • Previous: £1,023 per month

  • New: £1,250 per month

  • Duration: 9 months

• Dependents in London:

  • Previous: £845 per month

  • New: £1,000 per month

  • Duration: 9 months

• Dependents outside London:

  • Previous: £680 per month

  • New: £800 per month

  • Duration: 9 months

What this means

A student studying in London must now show at least £14,400 for living costs alone.

5. Post-Study Work Opportunities Under Graduate Visa 2025

Under the updated rules:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates can stay in the UK for up to 2 years.

• PhD graduates can stay for up to 3 years.

• You can:

  • Work at any skill level

  • Be self-employed

  • Start a business

  • Work part-time or full-time

Later, graduates can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if they secure a qualifying job meeting salary requirements.

6. Dependents and Family Rules 2025

Dependent eligibility has been significantly restricted.

Who Can Bring Dependents Now

• PhD students

• Research-based postgraduate students

Who Cannot Bring Dependents

• Taught master’s students

• Undergraduate students

This change aims to manage immigration more effectively.

7. Updated Application Fees and Health Surcharge (IHS)

Students should expect:

• A rise in visa application fees

• A possible increase in Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which may exceed £1,000 per year

The IHS provides access to NHS services, so it remains compulsory for all students.

8. Switching from a Student Visa to a Work Visa

Switching is still allowed, but with higher requirements:

• The minimum salary threshold has increased

• The job must be on the updated Skilled Worker eligible occupations list

• Employer must hold a valid sponsorship license

This ensures students transition into meaningful and skilled job roles.

9. English Language and Academic Requirements

The updated rules now require:

• Verified English test scores from UKVI-approved exams

• Stronger academic performance

• Regular monitoring of attendance and coursework

• Universities must report non-compliance to UKVI

These steps help maintain academic integrity in the immigration process.

10. Future of the Graduate Route (2027 Review)

The UK government plans another major review of the Graduate Route in 2027. Expected changes include:

• More digital visa processing

• Possible adjustments to stay duration

• Stronger connections between study fields and job market needs

Students beginning in 2025 should stay updated with upcoming changes.

Conclusion

The UK Graduate Visa Rules 2025 introduce a more structured, transparent, and compliance-focused system for international students. While the financial and documentation requirements have increased, the UK remains a strong and welcoming study destination with excellent academic and career opportunities.

To succeed under the new rules, students should:

• Prepare financially

• Maintain academic progress

• Stay updated with UK immigration policies

• Plan career goals early

The UK continues to offer vast possibilities for students aiming to build a successful global career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the UK Graduate Visa? It allows international students to stay in the UK for 2–3 years after completing their degree to work or gain experience.

2. When will the new visa rules apply? They apply to students graduating from mid-2025 onwards.

3. Can undergraduate students apply for the Graduate Visa? Yes. All students who complete an eligible UK degree can apply.

4. Who can bring dependents under the new rules? Only PhD and research-based postgraduate students.

5. What are the new financial maintenance requirements? £1,600 per month in London and £1,250 outside London for 9 months.

6. Can I switch to a work visa? Yes, if you secure a job that meets new salary and skill criteria.

7. Has the English requirement changed? Yes. Verified and stricter English proof is required.

8. What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)? A compulsory fee that provides access to NHS healthcare.

9. Does tuition fee payment affect visa approval? Yes. Students must show majority or full tuition payment proof.

10. How long can I stay after graduation?

Up to 2 years for UG/PG and 3 years for PhD graduates.