UK to Cut Graduate Visa Stay to 18 Months from 2027

The UK government will reduce the post-study visa period for most international graduates from two years to 18 months, effective from 1 January 2027.

The change will apply to students who submit their Graduate visa applications on or after that date. Applications made before 31 December 2026 will still be eligible for the current two-year period. 

Doctoral graduates are not affected and will continue to receive a three-year post-study stay. The Graduate visa remains non-renewable, requiring graduates to either switch to a Skilled Worker visa or leave the UK once their permitted stay ends.

According to the Home Office, the adjustment reflects concerns that many graduates are not moving into skilled employment during their post-study period. Officials have stated that the visa is intended to support the transition from study to skilled work, rather than allow extended stays without clear professional engagement.

The changes form part of broader reforms to the UK's student visa system. From the 2025–2026 academic year, applicants must show increased financial resources to qualify. Students will need to demonstrate access to £1,483 per month if studying in London or £1,136 per month for other regions. 

These funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.

A new levy on university income from international students is also being introduced, with institutions expected to pass the cost on through higher tuition fees. For the 2025/26 academic year, undergraduate fees have already increased by 3.1%, rising from £9,250 to £9,535. 

Rising tuition and living costs are likely to raise the overall cost of studying in the UK. The government has also announced plans to raise English language requirements across student, work, and settlement visas. While new thresholds have not yet been confirmed, the aim is to introduce stricter standards in future applications.

Despite tighter rules, international interest in UK higher education remains strong. Following a drop in applications after the 2024 ban on most student dependents, study visa approvals rose by 18% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period the previous year.

With reduced post-study time, stricter financial requirements, and limited visa extensions, international students will need to plan carefully to secure employment or transition to alternative visa routes after graduation.