Description
Comprehensive guide for Nepalese college students about United Kingdom Post Study Visa eligibility, application process, fees, and expert advice for a future filled with success.
Introduction
For the majority of Nepalese university students, UK studies are just the starting point for another adventure. The second big step is staying behind in the UK upon graduation to gain work experience, set up a career, and find new opportunities. That is where the UK Post Study Visa or Graduate Route comes into picture.
This visa is a game-changer. It allows international graduates, like Nepalese graduates, to remain in the UK for two or three years, depending on the level of study, and work freely without needing an initial job offer.
In this guide, you'll discover:
- What the United Kingdom Graduate Route is and who qualifies.
- A step-by-step guide to the application technique.
- Costs, timelines, and required documents.
- What to do in case your application is refused.
- Tips for life after getting your visa including job looking and legal compliance.
- How to financially plan your transition and be successful as a Nepalese graduate.
At Alfa Beta, we’ve helped a lot of Nepalese students efficiently complete this process. Think of us as your friendly guide, prepared to help you at every level.
Let’s dive in and explore how you may take benefit of the UK Post Study Visa and secure your future.
Overview of the UK Post Study Visa (Graduate Route) for Nepalese Students
The British Graduate Route, also known as a visa for Post Study Work (PSW), lets qualified international students stay in the UK after completing their studies. It is designed to support graduates when they gain real experience in the British labor market.
- It gives you the right to work 2 to 3 years in the UK.
- You can work in any field without sponsorship.
- Popular with Nepali students who want to kick their careers abroad.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Name | Graduate Route / Post Study Work Visa |
| Duration | 2 years (UG/PG), 3 years (PhD) |
| Eligible Applicants | Students who completed UK degrees |
| Job Requirement | No job offer required |
| Application Location | From within the UK |
| Switching Options | Skilled Worker, Start-up, etc. |
| Work Rights | Full-time, any job, self-employed allowed |
What Is the UK Post Study Visa?
The Graduate Route is a UK immigration pathway released in 2021 to permit international students to stay within the UK after commencement. Nepalese students with a valid UK student visa who’ve successfully completed a degree at an recognized institution are eligible.
This visa does not require sponsorship and allows you to look for work, be hired, or start your own business freely in the UK.
Duration and Key Features of the Graduate Route
- 2 years: Undergraduate and Master’s degree holders.
- 3 years: PhD graduates.
- No sponsorship or job offer required.
- Full work rights: Work at any skill level or be self-employed.
- Switchable: You can move to a Skilled Worker or other UK visa.
| Degree Level | Stay Duration |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's/Master's | 2 Years |
| PhD/Doctorate | 3 Years |
Recent Updates and Policy Changes
There were discussions in the UK Parliament approximately reviewing the Graduate Route, but no major changes have taken effect as of 2025.
"The Graduate Route remains a crucial pathway to attract global expertise to the United Kingdom. We are committed to assisting proper college students who wish to build careers here."
— UK Home Office, 2025 Policy Briefing
Nepalese students are still eligible, and application processing continues smoothly.
Eligibility Criteria for Nepalese Students
To qualify for the Graduate Route, Nepalese students need to meet specific instructional, visa, and timing necessities.
Eligibility Checklist
- Completed a degree-level course (bachelor's, master's, or PhD) within the UK.
- Studied at an authorized UK university that sponsors student visas.
- Hold a valid UK student visa at the time of application.
- Applied from in the UK before your visa expires.
- Successfully obtained your final results before applying.
Academic and Course Requirements
- Eligible Degrees:
- Bachelor's (BA, BSc)
- Master's (MA, MSc, MBA)
- Doctorate (PhD, DPhil)
- Eligible Institutions:
- Must be a recognized Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.
- Part-Time Study:
- Accepted if the course is eligible.
- Distance learning is not valid unless due to COVID-19 or special approval.
Visa and Timing Requirements
- You must apply before your student visa expires.
- You should be physically in the UK while applying.
- You must have completed your course and received official confirmation.
- You do not need a job offer at the time of application.
Dependent Family Members: Who Can Apply?
- Who qualifies?
- Spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
- Children under 18.
- Can they apply with you? Yes, if they were already dependents during your student visa.
- New dependents (e.g., newly married spouse) cannot be added after your Graduate Visa is approved.
Common Reasons for Ineligibility
Be cautious of the following:
- Course not completed or results not received.
- Visa expired before applying.
- Studied at a non-licensed institution.
- Application submitted from outside the UK.
- Outstanding immigration issues or unpaid debts.
Step-by-Step UK Post Study Visa Application Process
Applying is simple if done correctly. Here’s a complete guide:
Preparing Your Application: Documents Needed
- Valid passport
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Confirmation of course completion from your university
- Relationship proof (for dependents)
- Proof of funds (only in special cases)
Application Fees and Financial Requirements
| Type | Cost (GBP) | Approx. Cost (NPR) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Applicant | £822 | ~NPR 140,000 |
| Dependent Fee | £822 each | ~NPR 140,000 each |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £624/year | ~NPR 105,000/year |
Pay online via card; confirm your transaction to avoid delays.
Filling Out and Submitting the Online Application
- Visit UKVI Graduate Route Portal
- Create a UKVI account.
- Fill in the Graduate Route form.
- Upload all documents.
- Pay visa fee + IHS.
- Book and attend biometric appointments (if required).
- Submit application and await confirmation.
After Submission: Waiting for a Decision
- Processing Time: Usually 8 weeks.
- Email updates from UKVI.
- Check status online at any time.
- Don’t leave the UK or start working full-time until granted.
If Your Visa Application Is Refused: Next Steps
- Read the refusal letter carefully.
- Correct the issue and reapply if allowed.
- Seek professional help (e.g., legal recommendation or Alfa Beta advisors).
- Appeal only if you believe the decision was incorrect.
Post-Visa Compliance: Staying Within UK Rules
- Report address or contact changes.
- Work legally; don’t exceed limits.
- Avoid public funds.
- Don’t overstay beyond the Graduate Route expiry.
Life and Opportunities on the Graduate Visa
Work Rights and Restrictions Explained
- Full-time work permitted
- Self-employment allowed
- No sponsor or job offer needed
- No public funds access
- Cannot extend Graduate Visa (must switch to another visa type)
Popular Sectors and Job Opportunities for Nepalese Graduates
- IT and Tech (developers, analysts)
- Healthcare & Life Sciences (assistants, researchers)
- Finance & Accounting (analysts, assistants)
- Hospitality & Retail (customer service, management)
“My Graduate Visa helped me land a business analyst job in Birmingham just 4 months after finishing my MBA.”
— Sabina M., Kathmandu
Switching to Other UK Visas After Graduation
After your Graduate Visa:
- Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa with a job offer.
- Apply for a Start-up or Innovator Visa if launching a business.
- Apply for another student visa if continuing studies.
Tips, Support, and Cultural Guidance for Nepalese Students
Tips for a Successful Experience
- Apply early, don't wait till your visa is about to expire.
- Keep all your documents organized.
- Use university career services and job fairs.
- Stay informed on immigration updates.
- Ask for guidance, don't guess.
Financial Planning for Your Post-Study Period
- Accommodation: ~£400–700/month (NPR 70,000+)
- Food & Utilities: ~£200/month
- Transport: Student passes save money
- Job Search Phase: Budget 3–6 months without income
Cultural Adaptation & Resources
- Join Nepalese student groups (e.g., NSUK).
- Attend networking events.
- Practice British communication norms and workplace etiquette.
Compared with Australia & Canada: The UK offers easier post-study pathways without needing sponsorship upfront, making it a smart choice for Nepalese graduates.
Conclusion
The UK Post Study Visa (Graduate Route) is a golden opportunity for Nepalese students to start their professional journey overseas.
Key Takeaways:
- Stay in the UK for 2–3 years post-study
- Work freely and explore your career
- Simple online application, no job offer needed
- Financial planning and compliance are essential
- Alfa Beta can guide you at every step
Ready to form your future in the UK?
Book a free session with Alfa Beta or visit our International Admissions Day for expert support!
