UK Graduate Route Visa 2026
Stay and work in the UK for 2 years (3 for PhD) after graduating from a UK university — no sponsor, no job offer, no salary threshold. The smartest stepping stone to a Skilled Worker visa and ILR.
UK Immigration Routes
Choose the pathway that matches your situation
Skilled Worker Visa
For those with a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor. 70-point threshold. Leads to ILR after 5 years.
- Job offer from UKVI-licensed sponsor
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Salary: £26,200+ or going rate (whichever higher)
- English: B1 level minimum
- Score 70 points total
Graduate Route
Work in the UK for 2 years (3 for PhD) after graduating from a UK university — no job offer required.
- Graduated from a UK Higher Education Provider
- Held a valid Student Visa at time of application
- Apply from within the UK
- No job offer required
- No minimum salary requirement
Global Talent Visa
For recognized leaders and exceptional talent in science, engineering, digital technology, arts, and culture.
- Endorsement from approved body (Tech Nation, Royal Society, etc.)
- Recognized leader OR exceptional promise
- No job offer required
- No minimum salary requirement
The 70-Point Threshold Explained
50 mandatory points + 20 tradeable points = 70 total required
Path to UK Permanent Residence & Citizenship
The most common journey for Indian skilled workers in the UK
Arrive on Skilled Worker Visa
Job offer secured, CoS issued, visa approved. Salary: £26,200+. Bring family on Dependant visa.
Build UK Work Experience
Progress in your career. Spouse works freely. Children access free state education. NHS healthcare available.
Apply for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
Pass Life in the UK test, confirm English, prove continuous residence (max 180 days/year absent). Fee: £2,885.
Apply for British Citizenship
1 year after ILR (6 years total in UK). Pass citizenship test. Dual citizenship allowed — no need to renounce Indian passport if India allows dual citizenship.
UK Immigration FAQ
What is the minimum salary for a UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2026?
The minimum salary threshold for most Skilled Worker Visa roles is £26,200/year or the 'going rate' for your specific occupation (whichever is higher). The going rate is the median salary for that occupation. For shortage occupations or new entrants (under 26 or recent graduates), a reduced threshold of £20,960/year may apply. Salary thresholds were last updated in April 2024.
Can I bring my family on a UK Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. Your spouse or partner and dependent children can apply to join you in the UK on a Dependant visa. They can work freely in the UK without any restrictions. However, family members must meet the financial requirements (sponsor must earn enough to support them).
How do I find a UKVI-licensed sponsor in the UK?
The UK Home Office maintains a public Register of Licensed Sponsors on gov.uk. Search by company name or industry sector. Your employer must appear on this list before they can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship. Most large UK employers (NHS, universities, tech companies, banks) are licensed sponsors.
Can an Indian student stay in the UK after graduation?
Yes. Indian students who graduate from a UK university can apply for the Graduate Route visa: 2 years for bachelor's/master's graduates, 3 years for PhD graduates. No job offer required. After the Graduate Route, switch to a Skilled Worker Visa to continue toward ILR (total 5 years UK residence).
How long does it take to get permanent residence (ILR) in the UK?
ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) is available after 5 continuous years of legal UK residence on a Skilled Worker Visa. Requirements include: passing the Life in the UK test, demonstrating English proficiency, not having been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period, and having no serious criminal convictions.
Need Help with UK Immigration?
Garg Brothers provides expert guidance on Skilled Worker Visa applications, Graduate Route, and ILR. Free assessment with our UK immigration specialists.