About the visa
The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa allows recent graduates from top global universities to live and work in the UK without sponsorship for a limited period. The route is capped at 8,000 applications per year (allocation year: 1 November–31 October). This is not a route to settlement—time on an HPI visa does not count towards indefinite leave to remain.
Eligibility & key rules
Applicants must score 70 points across three requirements:
- Global Universities List degree (50 pts): An overseas degree (bachelor’s or above) from an institution on the Global Universities List, awarded within the last 5 years. Ecctis verification is mandatory.
- English language at B2 (10 pts): Demonstrated via Appendix English Language (SELT test, degree taught in English, or majority English-speaking country national).
- Financial requirement (10 pts): At least £1,270 held for 28 consecutive days. Exempt if in the UK with valid permission for 12+ months.
Not eligible: those previously granted a Graduate visa, Student Doctorate Extension Scheme, or a prior HPI visa. UK university graduates should apply for the Graduate visa instead.
What you can / cannot do
Permitted
- Work in most jobs (including self-employment)
- Voluntary work
- Study (with conditions—not courses eligible for Student route)
- Travel abroad and return to the UK
Not permitted
- Access to public funds
- Work as a professional sportsperson
- Extend the visa
- Apply for settlement (time does not count)
Fees, documents & process
Costs
- Ecctis verification: £252 (inc. VAT)
- Application fee: £880
- Healthcare surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year (£2,070 for 2 years; £3,105 for 3 years)
- Maintenance funds: at least £1,270 held for 28 days
Required documents
- Valid passport or travel document
- Ecctis certificate confirming degree level and institution
- Evidence of English language ability
- Bank statements showing £1,270 held for 28 days (unless exempt)
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
Processing times
- From outside the UK: approximately 3 weeks
- From inside the UK (switching): approximately 8 weeks
