Choosing to study in the UK gives you many opportunities for your career. However, planning for life after graduation is just as important. We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the PSW UK visa, including who is eligible, how to apply, costs and duration, job options, work rules, and how IDP can help you make the most of your time in the UK.

Table of Contents

  • What is PSW?

  • What are the eligibility criteria for the PSW UK visa?

  • How to apply for a PSW UK visa from Pakistan?

  • What is the cost, duration, and process?

  • Career opportunities after PSW

  • Duration and work opportunities after getting your PSW visa

  • Get expert guidance from IDP Pakistan Experts

  • FAQs

What is PSW?

Post-Study Work (PSW) in the UK refers to the Graduate Route visa, which allows international students to stay in the UK after completing eligible higher education courses. This visa enables graduates to work, search for jobs, or gain experience in the UK job market without requiring a job offer or employer sponsorship at the time of application.

The good part is that this route serves as a bridge between academic learning and employment in the UK, enabling international graduates, including students from Pakistan to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and potentially transition into skilled employment visas later.

What are the eligibility criteria for the PSW UK visa?

To get a PSW visa through the Graduate Route, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Qualification Requirements:

You must have completed a qualifying degree in the UK, such as:

  • A bachelor’s degree

  • A master’s degree

  • A PhD or another doctoral qualification

Your degree must be awarded by a UK institution recognised by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

  • Valid Student Visa Status:

When you apply, you must be in the UK and have a valid student visa (previously called Tier 4). You cannot apply from outside the UK or after your student visa has expired.

  • University Confirmation:

Your university must notify the UK Home Office that you have successfully completed your course before you apply.

The PSW visa is more flexible than many work visas because you do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship. This makes it a great option for recent graduates.

How to apply for a PSW UK visa from Pakistan?

Although their application is completed online, you must be physically present in the UK when you apply. Here’s how the process works:

  • Step 1: Finish Your Degree
    Complete your course at a recognised UK university and wait for your school to officially confirm you have completed your studies.

  • Step 2: University Reports Completion
    Your university will notify UKVI that you have completed your course. You must wait for this confirmation before applying.

  • Step 3: Apply Online
    Once confirmation is received, apply for the Graduate Route through the UK government visa website while you are still in the UK.

  • Step 4: Upload Documents
    Upload required documents, such as your passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

  • Step 5: Identity Verification
    Most applicants verify their identity using the UK Immigration app. In some cases, you might also need to attend a biometric appointment.

  • Step 6: Wait for Decision
    After submitting your application, you can stay in the UK while you wait for a decision.

What is the cost, duration, and process?

Application Fees

When applying for a PSW visa, you must pay a £880 application fee and an Immigration Health Surcharge of about £1,035 per year, depending on your stay. As fees may change, check the official UK government website for the latest charges before you apply.

Processing Time

Most PSW applications are typically decided within a few weeks. During this period, applicants are legally permitted to remain in the UK and engage in work.

Required Documents

Common documents include:

  • A valid passport

  • Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

  • Institutional confirmation of course completion

  • Evidence of your current immigration status

Stay alert to policy changes, as visa requirements can change over time. Staying current ensures you are always prepared for any updates.

Career opportunities after PSW

One of the biggest advantages of the UK’s PSW visa is its flexibility within the job market. After graduation, you can pursue job roles in thriving fields such as:

  • Business and Management

  • IT, Software, and Technology

  • Engineering and Manufacturing

  • Healthcare and Science

  • Finance, Marketing, and Analytics

Duration and work opportunities after getting your PSW visa

Here are some key details, including how long you can stay in the UK and what opportunities are available once your PSW visa is granted.

Under the current PSW rules:

  • Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates can stay for up to 2 years.

  • PhD graduates can remain for up to 3 years.

During this time, PSW visa holders can work full-time, switch jobs or roles freely, and take-up self-employed or freelance work. They are allowed to work in any job and at any skill level, with no minimum pay or job type requirements, giving them the most freedom to get UK work experience.

However, since the PSW visa cannot be renewed after it ends, graduates should plan ahead, especially if they intend to switch to a long-term employer-sponsored visa.

Get expert guidance from IDP Pakistan experts

Going through the PSW process can be a little overwhelming, but expert support can simplify the process than you might expect. At IDP, we assist students not just with university selection and study visas, but also with understanding PSW eligibility, timelines, and long-term planning.

Book your FREE appointment today.

FAQs

How can Pakistani students apply for the PSW visa?

Pakistani students can apply for a PSW visa from within the UK after completing an eligible degree at a recognised university and holding a valid student visa (formerly Tier 4).

Can I switch from the PSW visa to a skilled visa?

Yes, many students transition from PSW to a Skilled Worker visa if they secure a qualifying job offer with employer sponsorship.