Thinking of working in the UK? The High Potential Individual visa could be your gateway
If you’ve recently graduated from a top global university and are looking to live and work in the UK without a job offer, the High Potential Individual visa might be the ideal route for you.
Mishal Patel ● Mar 26, 2025
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The High Potential Individual visa (HPI) is designed to attract talented graduates and give them the flexibility to explore career opportunities, gain UK experience and even set themselves up for long-term immigration routes.
Why choose the HPI visa?
This visa gives you the freedom to work in almost any role, become self-employed or even volunteer – all without employer sponsorship. It’s perfect if you want to gain international work experience, explore UK culture or grow your professional network. While the visa doesn’t lead directly to permanent residency, it can be a stepping stone to other longer-term visas like the Skilled Worker or Global Talent visa.
Who can apply for the HPI visa?
To qualify, you need to have a degree from an eligible international university awarded in the last five years. The degree must be at the same level as a UK bachelor’s degree, UK master’s or UK doctoral level and must be from a university listed on the UK Home Office’s Global Universities List for the year you graduated. This list includes universities ranked in the top 50 by at least two major international rankings.
You can check if your university qualifies here.
You’ll also need to prove your English language ability to at least a B1 level. This can be done in several ways, such as passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT), holding a degree taught in English or having previously met this requirement in a successful UK visa application.
What are the financial requirements?
Applicants must show they have at least £1,270 in personal savings, held for 28 consecutive days before applying. If you’ve been living in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, this requirement is waived. It’s also important to note that you can’t apply for this visa if you’ve already held a Graduate visa, a High Potential Individual visa, or a Student Doctorate Extension Scheme visa.
How much does it cost?
As of March 2025, the application fee is £822 (increasing to £880 from 8 April 2025). In addition, you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £1,035 per year. This works out to £2,070 for a two-year visa or £3,105 for a three-year visa (for PhD holders). If you work in public healthcare, you may be able to claim back your IHS payment.
There’s also a qualification verification fee from Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC), which costs £210 if you’re applying from outside the UK, or £252 from within the UK.
How long is the HPI visa valid?
The HPI visa is valid for two years if you hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree and three years if you have a PhD. Unfortunately, the visa cannot be extended, but you can switch to another visa route while you’re in the UK, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I bring my family?
Yes – your partner and any children under the age of 18 can join you in the UK, provided they meet the necessary requirements. Each dependant must apply separately and pay the same fees, including the IHS.
How long does it take to get a decision?
Most decisions are made within three weeks if applying from outside the UK and eight weeks from within the UK.