If you finished your studies in the UK and want to stay and work, the UK post study work visa is the right choice. This visa helps international students stay in the UK and work or look for work. The UK calls this visa the Graduate Route. It started in 2021 and continues in 2025. The rules are simple, but you must prepare your documents properly.
In this blog, we will explain all the documents required for the UK Post Study Work Visa in 2025 in simple words. We will also guide you step by step so you feel confident while applying.
What is the UK Post Study Work Visa?
The post-study work visa UK is a special visa for international students. If you finish a degree in the UK, you can apply. This visa allows you to live in the UK for up to two years, or three years if you’ve completed a PhD. During this time, you’re free to work, look for employment opportunities, or launch your own business.
You don’t need a job offer to apply. This visa gives you freedom and time to explore work opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for the UK Post Study Work Visa
You can apply if:
- You finished a bachelor’s, masters or PhD degree in the UK.
- Your university or college is approved by the UK government.
- You were primarily residing in the UK during the majority of your studies.
Now, let’s move to the most important part: the documents.
List of Documents Required for the UK Post Study Work Visa in 2025
1. Valid Passport
You must have a valid passport. Your passport shows your identity and nationality. Make sure it is not expired. If your passport is about to expire, get it renewed before applying.
Tip: Scan all pages of your passport, including those with visas or stamps.
2. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
While studying in the UK, you were issued a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which serves as proof of your immigration status. You must upload a copy of your BRP when applying.
3. Confirmation of Completion from Your University
You must prove that you completed your course. Your university will send a message to the UK Home Office once you finish your degree. You do not need to send your degree certificate, but it helps to have it for your record.
Note: You can apply only after your university confirms your course completion.
4. CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) Number
This is the number your university gave you when you applied for your student visa. Keep this number ready. You don’t need to upload your CAS letter again, but you must enter the CAS number.
5. Proof of English Language (Only if Asked)
Most students do not need to give this again because they already showed it during the student visa process. But sometimes the UK Home Office may ask for proof again. So keep your IELTS, TOEFL, or other English test results ready.
6. Proof of Funds (Rarely Asked)
Usually, you do not need to show money in your bank for the UK post study work visa. But in some rare cases, the UK government may ask for proof. So it’s better to keep a bank statement ready. You should show that you can support yourself for a few months.
7. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (If Required)
If you are from a country where TB is common, you may need a TB test. Check the UK Home Office website for the list of countries. If needed, take the test at a UK-approved clinic and keep the certificate ready.
8. Recent Digital Photograph
You will upload a digital photo of yourself. This photo should be recent. It must follow the UK visa photo guidelines: clear background, your full face showing, no hats or sunglasses.
9. Graduate Route Application Form
You must fill out the online application form for the UK post study work visa. Make sure you answer all questions honestly. Before submitting, double-check your answers.
8. Payment Receipt
You need to pay:
- £822 as visa fee (as of 2025)
- £1,035 per year as Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
You must keep the payment receipt after you pay online. This indicates you’ve finished the payment step.
How to Apply for the UK Post Study Work Visa?
Here are the easy steps:
- Prepare Your Documents: Collect everything we listed above.
- Apply Online: Go to the UK Home Office website and fill out the Graduate Route application form.
- Pay Fees: Pay the visa fee and IHS charges.
- Verify Identity: Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app or visit a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center.
- Wait for Decision: Most people get a decision in 8 weeks.
Important Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Apply soon after your course ends.
- Stay in the UK: You must apply from inside the UK.
- Check your email: The Home Office may contact you if they need more information.
- Keep copies: Always save a copy of each document and your application form.
What Happens After You Get the Visa?
Once you get the UK post study work visa, you can:
- Work full-time in most jobs.
- Switch jobs anytime.
- Travel in and out of the UK freely.
- Apply for other UK work visas later.
- This visa opens many doors for your future in the UK.
Final Words
Getting a UK post study work visa in 2025 is not hard. You only need the right documents and a clear plan. Follow the steps, stay organized, and don’t wait too long after your studies finish. The Graduate Route helps you move from student life to working life in the UK smoothly. If you want to build a career in the UK, this visa is the perfect start.
Many students dream of building a career in the UK! Choose Zealand Immigration India—one of the trusted UK Education Consultants—to receive expert support at every step and make the entire process smoother and hassle-free.
Frequently Ask Questions
Q1. Can I apply from my home country?
Ans. No, the application must be submitted from within the UK.
Q2. Is a job offer required to submit an application?
Ans. No, you can apply even if you don’t have a job yet.
Q3. Can I bring my family?
Ans. No, dependents are not allowed unless they were already with you during your student visa.
Q4. Can I extend this visa?
Ans. No, you cannot extend it. However, if you receive a job offer later, you may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker visa.
Q5. How long does the process take?
Ans. Usually, you get a decision within 8 weeks.
- Documents Required for the UK Post Study Work Visa in 2025
- Get your UK Post Study Work Visa in 2025 faster. See the key documents you need and start your application today.
- UK Post Study Work Visa
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