High Potential Individual Visa

If you’ve recently graduated from a leading global university and want to build your future in the UK, the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa could be the right visa route for you. This visa is designed for talented individuals who want the freedom to live, work, and explore opportunities without needing a job offer or sponsorship.

Graduates from UK universities do not qualify for this type of visa route. If you’re in the UK on a Student visa, you may be eligible to apply for a Graduate visa instead.

Key requirements

To qualify, you’ll need:

• The UK equivalent of a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD awarded in the last five years from a university on the UK Home Office’s Global Universities List. Your qualification must also be verified by the UK Home Office approved organisation called Ecctis
• English language ability at CEFR B2 level or above (usually proven through a degree taught in English, holding valid nationality from an approved list of English-speaking countries, or passing an approved test)
• At least £1,270 in savings, held for 28 consecutive days within 31 days before applying (unless you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months).

What does it allow?

The HPI visa gives you flexibility to:

• Stay two years if you hold an equivalent UK Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an eligible global university, or three years if you hold a PhD
• Work in most roles, be self-employed, or start a business (or study if your chosen course is not eligible for a Student Visa)
• Bring eligible dependants (partner and children)
• Travel abroad and return during your visa period.

You can’t extend this visa, claim most public benefits, or work as a professional sportsperson. Time spent on this visa doesn’t count towards settlement, but you can switch to another visa before it expires if you want to stay in the UK longer.

How do you apply?

You can apply online via the UK Government website, whether you’re:

• Outside the UK and planning to move here; or
• Inside the UK and switching from an eligible visa category.

The process includes:

• Completing the online form
• Providing biometric data (either through the UK Immigration: ID Check app or at a UKVI approved Visa Application centre)
• Submitting relevant supporting documents.

Fees and health surcharge

Home Office fees vary by category.

You’ll also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, calculated based on how long your visa is granted.

How can we support you?

We’ll make the process clear and stress-free:

• Confirm if the HPI visa is right for you
• Guide you through every step of the application
• Advise on your options before your HPI visa ends, so you can plan your future in the UK.