After the PSW program in the UK, you must make critical decisions regarding your legal status, career growth, and transition to long-term residency. The PSW allows you to work freely for two to three years after graduation, but it cannot be extended or renewed. Therefore, you must switch to another legal visa before it expires. Overstaying your visa can result in bans, fines, or deportation, so it is essential for UK PSW visa holders to proactively plan for their post-PSW pathways in the UK.
Once your PSW expires, you must switch to a new visa category in order to remain in the UK. Options include:
- Skilled Worker Visa: requires a valid job offer
- Student Visa: for a second degree with academic progression (e.g., a second master’s degree)
- Spouse Visa: for individuals married to a UK resident
- Other Visas: Health & Care, Innovator, Global Talent, etc.
A second degree with academic progression
Apply for a student visa by enrolling in a new course and showcasing academic progression (e.g., a master’s or Ph.D.) at a licensed sponsor. You must also prove that you have the necessary funds and English proficiency. Time your application to coincide with the end of the PSW for a seamless switchover. A student visa also allows you to work part time. This extends your stay while you build the qualifications you need for your dream position, making it a top option after the UK graduate visa strategy.
Secure a job offer from a Home Office-approved sponsor
To qualify, you must secure a job offer from a Home Office-approved sponsor with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for a skilled role on the eligible occupations list. You must also meet the minimum salary threshold, which is typically £38,700 as of 2025 and is adjusted annually. Applications can be made in-country up to 60 days before PSW expiration, which preserves your work rights during processing. This visa lasts up to five years and is renewable. It leads to settlement, making it ideal for PSW graduates who want a UK work visa after PSW.
Take a look at additional visa options
- Global Talent Visa: For leaders in digital tech, science, or arts-fast-track endorsement via Tech Nation or Royal Society, no job offer needed.
- Innovator Founder Visa: Launch a business with an endorsing body; suits entrepreneurial PSW alumni.
- Health and Care Worker Visa: Lower salary threshold for NHS or care roles, shortage occupation perks.
Compare key visas post-PSW:
Visa Type | Job Offer Required | Salary Threshold | Path to ILR |
Skilled Worker | Yes | £38,700+ | 5 years |
Global Talent | No | None | 3-5 years |
Innovator Founder | No (business plan) | £50,000+ viable | 3 years |
Student | No (course offer) | Course fees | Indirect |
Permanent Settlement Routes
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) allows you to live and work in the UK without visa restrictions. Under current rules, most Skilled Worker visa holders and others can apply for ILR after five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK, provided they pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English and residence requirements. There is an alternative 10-year long-residence route for individuals who have lived lawfully in the UK across different visas. Time spent on PSW/graduate visas does not count toward the five-year route, but it may count toward the long-residence route. Starting in April 2026, the UK plans to introduce reforms that could extend the standard settlement period to 10 years under an “earned settlement” model. Final details are pending, and current rules remain valid until they are officially changed.
What should you do before expiring PSW in the UK?
You must consider your options more than 90 days before your PSW expires. Then, select the path that is suitable for you and your needs. The easiest ways are to secure a high-skilled visa or consider another degree with good academic progression. If your PSW has expired, you must leave the UK immediately. Late switches are not allowed, except in rare cases (e.g., human rights claims). If you have overstayed by less than 90 days, apply for a re-entry visa (e.g., Skilled Worker) from abroad after a cooling-off period. Seek immigration advice from OISC-regulated advisors.
What should you do during PSW status?
Network via LinkedIn, graduate fairs, and job search platforms like Indeed and Graduate-Jobs.com while your visa is active. Update your CV according to UK standards and your targeted designation. Gain experience by working in your targeted field. Improve your advanced skills in your field. Track Home Office updates, as rules evolve.
FAQ
Can I extend or renew my PSW/Graduate visa?
No, the Graduate visa cannot be extended or renewed; it lasts 2 years (3 for PhDs) and requires switching to another category before expiry.
What happens if my PSW expires?
You must leave the UK or face overstaying penalties; no in-country applications post-expiry except rare cases.
What visas can I switch to before PSW expires?
Switch to Skilled Worker (with job offer and CoS), Student (new course), Global Talent, Innovator Founder, or Health and Care Worker visas while valid.
Do I need a job offer for post-PSW options?
Not always – Global Talent or further study don’t require one, but Skilled Worker does, with salary thresholds.
Can I apply for PR/ILR right after PSW?
No; PSW time doesn’t directly qualify. Need 5 years on work visas like Skilled Worker or 10 years continuous residence.
Does PSW time count toward ILR?
Partially for long-residency route (10 years), but not for 5-year Skilled Worker path.
When should I apply for a new visa?
Before PSW expires, up to 60 days early for work visas; use your CAS from Student visa if switching to study.
Can I study or work freely during switch?
Yes, maintain status; Graduate visa allows any job except sports, no sponsor needed initially.
