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Work in the UK if you're a graduate from a top global university
The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa is a UK immigration route designed for graduates from top global universities who want to work, study, or be self-employed in the UK. Unlike most work visas, it does not require a job offer or employer sponsorship, giving you the freedom to explore opportunities and build your career in the UK.
This visa recognises that graduates from world-leading universities bring valuable skills and potential to the UK economy. It's an attractive option for recent graduates who want to gain international work experience, start a business, or pursue further study in the UK.
The HPI visa is valid for 2 years (for Bachelor's or Master's degree holders) or 3 years (for PhD holders). While it cannot be extended, you can switch to other visa routes such as Skilled Worker or Global Talent before it expires, potentially leading to settlement in the UK.
We can help you check eligibility and prepare a strong application.
To qualify for the HPI visa, you must meet several requirements relating to your degree, English language ability, and financial resources.
Your degree must be from a university that appears on the Home Office's list of eligible institutions. This list is based on global university rankings and is updated annually. You must have graduated within the 5 years before your application date.
You must provide comprehensive evidence to support your HPI visa application. The exact documents depend on your circumstances.
The HPI visa application process involves several steps. We guide you through each stage to ensure a successful application.
The costs of applying for an HPI visa include the application fee, Immigration Health Surcharge, and other potential expenses.
You can bring your spouse, partner, and children under 18 to the UK as dependants on your HPI visa. Each dependant must apply separately and meet the requirements.
The HPI visa itself cannot be extended and does not directly lead to settlement. However, you can switch to other visa routes that lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the HPI visa.
The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa is a UK immigration route for graduates from top global universities who want to work, study, or be self-employed in the UK. Unlike most work visas, it does not require a job offer or employer sponsorship, giving you flexibility to explore opportunities in the UK.
Your university must appear on the Home Office's list of eligible universities, which is based on global university rankings. The list is updated annually and includes top universities from around the world. You must have graduated from one of these universities within the 5 years before your application date.
The visa duration depends on your qualification level: Bachelor's or Master's degree holders receive 2 years, while PhD holders receive 3 years. The visa cannot be extended, but you can switch to other visa routes (such as Skilled Worker) before it expires.
Yes, you can bring your spouse or partner and children under 18 as dependants. Each dependant must apply separately and pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. Dependants have the same work and study rights as the main applicant.
You need to demonstrate English language ability at CEFR Level B1 (intermediate) in speaking and listening. You can prove this through an approved English language test, a degree taught in English, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
You must show you have at least £1,270 in your bank account, held for at least 28 consecutive days before your application. If you're applying with dependants, you'll need additional funds: £285 for a partner and £315 for each child, plus £1,270 for yourself.
Yes, you can switch to other visa routes such as Skilled Worker, Global Talent, or Innovator Founder visas before your HPI visa expires. Many HPI visa holders use this route as a stepping stone to longer-term visas that lead to settlement.
The HPI visa itself does not lead directly to settlement, but time spent on this visa can count towards the 5-year or 10-year routes to Indefinite Leave to Remain if you switch to an eligible visa category such as Skilled Worker before your HPI visa expires.
Book a free consultation with our immigration experts today. We'll check your eligibility, help you verify your degree, and guide you through the application process to maximise your chances of success.