A brief introduction
Nigerians form one of the largest student communities in the United Kingdom, making it one of the most attractive destinations for international students. Each year, thousands of Nigerians study in the UK as undergraduates and postgraduates. Graduating students often wish to gain professional experience after investing significant time and resources in their education.
After completing their studies, international students are allowed to stay in the UK under the government’s immigration policies. Often referred to as the UK Post-Study Work Visa, the Graduate Route Visa is an important pathway to immigration. After studying in the UK, this visa allows graduates to work, look for work, or even run their own business without the need for immediate sponsorship from an employer.
Specifically tailored for Nigerian students, this article describes the Graduate Route Visa requirements in detail. You will gain a clear understanding of eligibility conditions, documents required, application process, costs, rights, restrictions, and how to get the most out of the visa by the end of this guide.
An overview of the Graduate Route Visa
Designed to attract global talent and maintain the UK’s competitive edge in higher education, the Graduate Route was introduced in July 2021. Upon completion of their degree, international students can remain in the UK and gain valuable work experience.
A few key points
- Duration:
- In the case of graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, the program lasts two years.
- Graduates with a doctorate (PhD) typically take three years to complete.
- The visa is flexible: It does not require the sponsorship of an employer, unlike the Skilled Worker Visa. As a graduate, you can choose whether to work in most roles, change jobs, or become a self-employed person.
- Graduation visas do not directly lead to permanent residence, but they allow time for a worker to develop their skills and later switch to a skilled worker visa or another long-term immigration category.
The importance of the graduate route for Nigerian students
- International Work Experience
There is a great deal of interest among Nigerian students in gaining international work experience. Applicants with overseas experience are often highly valued by employers both in Nigeria and abroad. - Skilled Worker Visa Pathway
Under the Graduate Route, you can work towards permanent residency in the UK by finding a qualifying job under the Skilled Worker category. - Professional Development and Networking
After graduation, staying in the UK provides the opportunity to develop networks and attend industry events. - A stable financial environment
Graduates can earn pounds sterling while working in the UK and potentially recoup some of their education costs.
UK Graduate Route Eligibility Requirements
Nigerian students must meet several strict requirements in order to apply successfully.
1. Status of current visas
In order to apply, applicants must hold a valid Student Visa (or Tier 4 Visa if issued under the old rules). A student visa that has expired or who is outside the UK at the time of applying will not be accepted.
2. Successful completion of a recognized course
To be eligible, you must have completed one of the following qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree from the UK.
- Master’s degree from the UK.
- Doctoral degree from the UK.
- The UK government recognizes certain professional qualifications.
3. Accredited institution
Students must have studied at a UK higher education institution with a track record of compliance that is licensed to sponsor the course. Among the universities on this list are some of the most renowned in the country.
4. The study requirements
- The student must have spent at least 12 months studying in the UK during a course lasting 12 months or more.
- Courses lasting less than 12 months must be completed in the UK.
5. Institutional notification
Your university or college must inform the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course. Your application will not be approved without this notification.
6. No prior graduate visa
Graduate Route Visa and Doctorate Extension Scheme Visa holders are not eligible.
A list of documents required for application
The following documents should be prepared by Nigerian students when applying:
- Travel Document or Passport – Must verify your identity and nationality.
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) Number – This is the CAS number you used to apply for your student visa.
- Proof of Immigration Status – Your Biometric Residence Permit or digital document proving that you are on a Student Visa.
- Confirmation from the university – The university must confirm course completion directly with the Home Office.
- Photos – Recent passport-sized pictures (if needed).
- Evidence of Funding – Although you don’t need to show fresh maintenance funds, you must pay the application fee and health surcharge at the time of application.
Application Process Step-by-Step
- Check your eligibility
Make sure you meet all the requirements: valid visa, degree completion, and institution notification. - Online application submission
Visa applications are submitted online through the official UK visa application system. - Make a payment
- Application Fee: £880.
- An annual surcharge of £1,035 is charged to immigrants. Two-year visas cost £2,070, while three-year doctoral visas cost £3,105.
- Identity verification
The UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) may ask you to verify your identity using the UK Immigration ID Check mobile app. - Await the decision
It usually takes about eight weeks for the processing to be completed. As long as your Student Visa is valid during this period, you are permitted to remain in the UK.
Detailed Costs
- Fees for visa applications: £880
- IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge): £1,035 per visa year
- 2 year visa (bachelor’s or master’s): £2,070 IHS + £880 = £2,950.
- 3-year visa (PhD): £3,105 IHS + £880 = £3,985 total.
These costs must be paid at the time of application.
Restrictions and Rights
Here’s what you can do
- Regardless of skill level, work in most jobs.
- Become self-employed.
- Become a volunteer in the community.
- Travel in and out of the UK.
Here’s what you can’t do
- Extend the validity of the Graduate Visa.
- Become a professional athlete or coach.
- Benefits or welfare funds can be accessed through public funds.
Nigerian students’ most common mistakes
- Late Application – Applying after the Student Visa expires will automatically result in rejection.
- Not Confirming Course Completion – Failure by the university to notify the Home Office can delay or block the application.
- Insufficient funds for fees – You must pay in full upfront for the application.
- Wrong Location – Applications made from outside the UK will be automatically rejected.
Assisting your career transition with the Graduate Visa
In spite of the fact that the Graduate Route Visa does not grant permanent residency, it is an important stepping stone towards permanent residency:
- Switching to the skilled worker visa
After two or three years, you can secure a job with a licensed employer who can sponsor your Skilled Worker Visa. - Creating a career profile
Whether you remain in the UK or return home to Nigeria, the experience gained will enhance your CV. - Exploring Europe’s Opportunities
The UK can help you secure jobs in other European countries if you have work experience there.
Nigerian Students’ Practical Tips
- Prepare early to avoid missing deadlines before final exams.
- Ensure you have savings ready in advance: Fees and health surcharge combine to make the cost of fees and health surcharges high.
- Make sure you track your visa expiration date: You should not wait until the last week to apply for a student visa. Once your university confirms completion, apply as soon as possible.
- Develop your network: Attend job fairs, network with recruiters, and apply for graduate trainee programs on the Graduate Visa.
- Improve Skills: Consider additional certifications or part-time studies to boost employability.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Does Nigeria have a Graduate Visa program for Nigerian students?
No. If you wish to apply, you must be physically present in the UK and have a valid Student Visa.
2. Do I need to take the IELTS or English test again?
No. English is already part of your Student Visa requirements, so you do not need to take another English test.
3. Does the Graduate Visa allow me to bring dependents?
Yes, if they are already in the UK as your dependents under your Student Visa. Under the Graduate Route, dependents cannot be added.
4. Can the Graduate Visa lead to permanent residence?
Not directly. The Bridge Visa can, however, be used to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa, which can then lead to settlement.
5. What happens if I don’t get a job while on my Graduate Visa?
As you search for a more permanent position, you can take any job, including part-time or temporary positions.
In conclusion
For Nigerian students, the UK Graduate Route Visa provides a valuable opportunity to remain in the UK after graduation, gain international work experience, and transition into long-term careers. Despite the costs, it is well worth it when it comes to employability, professional development, and career opportunities.
Nigerian students must ensure that their applications are on time, their documents are complete, and they have a clear understanding of their finances. It is extremely important to use this visa strategically as a stepping stone-be it toward the Skilled Worker Visa, permanent residency, or global career opportunities.