High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa UK | Top University Graduates

For graduates from top global universities to work in the UK without a job offer. 2-year visa (3 years for PhD holders), capped at 8,000 places per year.

Validity

2 years (3 years for PhD/doctorate)—per HPI 9.1
No extension; can switch to Skilled Worker or other routes
Not a route to settlement

Essentials

Degree from a Global Universities List institution (last 5 years)
No sponsorship required; 8,000 annual cap
English B2 + £1,270 funds + Ecctis verification
£880 fee + £1,035/yr healthcare surcharge

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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

High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa