How to Apply for the UK PSW Visa (Graduate Route) in 2025: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

24-May-2025

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How to Apply for the UK PSW Visa (Graduate Route) in 2025: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

What is the Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route is a post-study work visa launched by the UK government that allows international students to remain in the UK to work or look for work after completing an eligible course.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the PSW visa, you must:

Have completed a UK degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) at a recognized Higher Education Provider.
Hold a valid Tier 4 or Student Visa at the time of your application.
Have studied in the UK for a minimum period:
- At least 12 months for a one-year course.
- Full duration for a course longer than 12 months.
Apply from within the UK (applications from outside the UK are not accepted).

When Can You Apply?

You must apply after your university has informed the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course. You do not need to wait until you have officially graduated or received your degree certificate.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Prepare Documents:
- Valid passport.
- Current Student Visa (BRP card or digital immigration status).
- Confirmation from your university that you have completed your course (your university will notify UKVI directly).
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number used for your Student visa (not always required but good to have).
Apply Online:
- Visit the UK Government website and complete the Graduate Route visa application form.
- You will need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
Pay the Fees:
- Application Fee: £822
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year (i.e., £2,070 for a 2-year visa)
Verify Your Identity:
- Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your passport and verify your identity.
- Alternatively, you may be asked to attend a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre.
Wait for a Decision:
- Most applications are processed within 8 weeks.
- You can stay in the UK while your application is being processed.

What You Can and Cannot Do on a PSW Visa

You can:

Work full-time at any skill level.
Be self-employed or start a business.
Switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you get a suitable job.

You cannot:

Extend the Graduate Route visa (you can only switch to another visa type).
Apply for public funds or benefits.
Work as a professional sportsperson.

Benefits of the Graduate Route

Provides valuable UK work experience.
Acts as a pathway to long-term skilled migration.
No job offer required at the time of application.
Freedom to explore different career options post-study.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying before your university has reported your course completion.
Being outside the UK during application.
Waiting too long after your Student visa expires.
Providing incomplete or incorrect documents.

After the PSW Visa

As the Graduate Route cannot be extended, before it expires you may choose to:

Apply for a Skilled Worker visa if you secure a qualifying job.
Switch to another work or business-related visa route.
Return to your home country or pursue further studies in the UK.

The Post-Study Work visa is a golden opportunity for international students to transition from academic life to professional life in the UK. With proper planning and timely application, the Graduate Route can serve as a stepping stone to a long-term career in the UK or globally.