On 12 May 2025, the UK government published the White Paper Restoring Control Over the Immigration System, outlining significant reforms to address net migration and strengthen regulatory compliance. Among the most substantial changes is the reduction of the Graduate visa—commonly called the post‑study work (PSW) route—from the current two years (18 months for undergraduates and master’s graduates, three years for PhD holders) to a standard 18-month period for all eligible students.
This briefing provides a transparent analysis of the policy, its implications, and strategic advice to help your law firm guide international students, universities, and employers through the evolving UK immigration landscape.
What Is Changing and Why
- Graduate Route Duration
- The current PSW visa, valid for two years for most graduates and three years for PhD holders, will be cut to 18 months across the board.
- Government Objectives
- The primary goal is to reduce net migration by approximately 100,000 individuals annually.
- Emphasis will shift toward attracting highly skilled individuals while curtailing lower-skilled or non-qualification related stays
- Sponsor Compliance and Levies
- The White Paper mandates stricter compliance regimes and a “red-amber-green” system for sponsoring universities
- A proposed levy of up to 6% on international student tuition fees will be considered in the coming Autumn Budget
- Language and Settlement Changes
- English language standards will be raised, including minimum A1 for dependants and B2 for settlement applicants
- The period qualifying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) under points-based routes is likely to increase from five to ten years, with possible concessions for high contributors
Impact by Stakeholder
Graduates and Their Families
- All graduates, including PhD candidates, will receive 18 months of post-study stay
- Dependants already in the UK may continue, but new dependant visas cannot be submitted post-study
Universities and Sponsors
- Institutions will be closely monitored via compliance checks (BCA) and may face constraints on student intake
- A 6% fee levy may be implemented, potentially increasing tuition and affecting international recruitment
Employers
- Employers hiring under the Skilled Worker route must now meet degree-level (RQF 6) and salary threshold requirements
- Graduates may no longer utilize a two-year grace period; employers must be prepared to sponsor within 18 months .
Practical Implications for Graduates
- Timely Application
- Confirm course completion and apply for the Graduate visa promptly. Current UKCISA guidance clarifies the 3C leave provision during processing
- Early Career Planning
- Initiate job searches and employer engagement 12–18 months before graduation.
- Aim for roles eligible under the Skilled Worker Visa (RQF 6 requirement) and secure a valid Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Consider Further Study
- Pursue a PhD or higher-level qualification, which may offer a longer visa period before the Graduate route is curtailed—but this requires financial and academic commitment.
- Prepare for Higher Costs
- In addition to visa charges (£925 application fee, NHS surcharge of £1,035 per year), a possible university levy may further increase costs
Strategic Action Plan for Solicitors
- Client Awareness Campaigns
- Circulate detailed briefings and guidance to international students, alumni, and university partners about the change.
- Employer Workshops
- Offer targeted sessions for London-based employers on sponsorship compliance, Skilled Worker switching, and recruitment planning.
- University Collaboration
- Assist HE providers with compliance audits, BCA preparedness, and sponsor licence retention strategies.
- Dependants and ILR Advice
- Advise students with families on maintaining dependant rights and planning for settlement under the evolving ten-year route.
Conclusion
The transition from a two-year Graduate Visa to a standard 18-month programme marks a pivotal change in UK immigration policy. While the UK remains open to international talent, the window for graduates is more limited. As a London-based immigration solicitor, offering proactive strategy, practical advice, and legal support can help your clients navigate the system with confidence.
If your students, universities, or employer partners would benefit from:
- tailored sponsorship guidance
- CV and job market mapping aligned with visa requirements
- family route transition strategies
- ILR and settlement planning
…please contact our office to arrange a bespoke advisory session.
