UK Graduate Visa Cut to 18 Months from 2027: What Students Must Know
The UK Graduate visa drops from 2 years to 18 months for applications from 1 January 2027. Who is affected, key dates and how Nepali students can plan.
Bachelor's and master's graduates who apply on or after 1 January 2027 get 18 months instead of two years. PhD graduates keep three years, and applications made by 31 December 2026 still get two years.
The Graduate route is getting shorter
The UK Graduate route lets international students stay and work in the UK after finishing their degree. From 1 January 2027, the time you get on this visa will be cut for most graduates.
The change was made in the Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules published on 14 October 2025. The government says too many graduates were not moving into graduate-level jobs.
Does this affect you?
- Students finishing a course in 2026: if you complete your course and can apply before 31 December 2026, you may still get 2 years. Your university must first report that you have completed the course.
- Students starting a one-year master’s in September 2026 or later: you will almost certainly apply in 2027, so plan for 18 months.
- Undergraduates on three- or four-year degrees: plan for 18 months.
- PhD students: no change, you keep 3 years.
18 months goes quickly. Start your job search during your final term, not after graduation.
How to use 18 months well
- Choose a course with clear job outcomes and check the university’s graduate employment data.
- Use your university careers service from your first term.
- Look for placements and internships built into your course.
- Research Skilled Worker sponsors early if you want to stay longer, including salary levels and sponsor licences.
- Keep your budget realistic. Do not rely on post-study work to repay a loan quickly.
Is the UK still a good option?
For many Nepali students, yes. One-year master’s degrees keep total costs and time lower than in many countries, UK degrees are recognised worldwide, and 18 months is still valuable work experience. What matters is choosing the course and university carefully and planning your career from the start.
For the full visa process, read our UK Student visa guide for Nepali students.
Questions students ask
My course ends in December 2026. Can I still get 2 years?
Only if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, while still in the UK with valid Student permission, and after your university has reported your successful completion. Speak to your university early, because reporting can take time.
Can my dependants stay on the Graduate route?
Only family members who already hold dependant permission linked to your Student visa can apply to stay with you. Most taught master’s students cannot bring dependants, so check your situation carefully.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes. If you find a job with a licensed sponsor that meets the Skilled Worker requirements, you can apply to switch from inside the UK.
Where this information comes from
- GOV.UK: Explanatory memorandum, Statement of Changes HC 1333 (14 October 2025)
- GOV.UK: Graduate visa
- UKCISA: Graduate route
Written on 17 September 2026. Always confirm the current rules on GOV.UK before you apply.
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