November 2026
UK High Potential Individual Visa
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Start Your UK Career without a Job Offer or Sponsor
The UK High Potential Individual (HPI) visa is designed to attract talented international graduates to live and work in the UK. It allows successful applicants to search for work, work in most roles, set up their own business or take advantage of new business opportunities. You need an eligible degree from a University listed on the Home Office's Global Universities List. It should be equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree, post graduate degree or doctorate and awarded within the last 5 years.
Degree, University and English Language Requirements
You need a degree level qualification from an overseas university that is listed on the Global Universities List for the month and year you received your degree. This list is updated every year, so be sure to see the correct list for the year you graduated. Your degree should be equivalent to the right level in the UK by having it verified by Ecctis (The UK international qualifications checking organisation). You need to show you have the capability to speak English at CEFR B2 level. This can usually be achieved by taking an approved English test, achieving a qualifying English taught degree or exemption. You need to show you have at least £1,270 of personal savings held for 28 consecutive days, unless exempt.
How to Apply for the UK HPI Visa
Make sure that your university is listed on the Global Universities List. Check you have a degree that is no older than 5 years. Apply to Ecctis to get your qualification assessed and obtain a reference. Gather documents (passport, evidence of English and bank statements) needed to prove your savings. Fill in the online HPI visa application form on GOV.UK. This can be done either from inside or outside the UK. Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge(IHS) and provide your biometrics. You can usually apply up to 3 months in advance of your travel date. Most successful applicants are granted permission to stay for 2 years however doctorate holders will be given 3 years.
How much does the UK HPI visa cost, including the healthcare surcharge?
The current HPI visa application fee is £880, and the Ecctis qualification assessment costs £252. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is generally £1,035 per year. For a two-year visa, the estimated total is £3,202, including the application fee, Ecctis assessment and £2,070 IHS. For a three-year doctoral visa, the estimated total is £4,237, including £3,105 IHS. These figures do not include the £1,270 maintenance funds you may need to show. Fees can change, so check the official GOV.UK amounts before applying.
Can my partner and children come to the UK with me on an HPI visa?
Yes. Your eligible partner and dependent children can apply to join you or stay with you in the UK. They must submit their own applications and meet the relevant relationship and financial requirements. Their permission will generally end on the same date as yours. You will need to provide evidence of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate, where applicable.
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