High Potential Individual Visa

The UK's High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa is designed for graduates from top global universities, offering a streamlined path to work in the UK without the need for a job offer. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to two years (or three years for those with a PhD), providing the flexibility to explore various career opportunities. The HPI Visa is an excellent option for recent graduates looking to gain international experience and build their careers in one of the world’s leading economies.

Who is eligible for the High Potential Individual Visa?

Eligibility for the HPI Visa requires applicants to meet the following criteria:

1. Degree Requirement: You must have completed an overseas degree (not from a UK institution) from a university listed on the UK Home Office’s Global Universities List.

2. Qualification Timeline: The degree must have been awarded in the past five years.

3. English Proficiency: You need to meet the required English language standards, generally at the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

4. Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old; however, there is no upper age limit.
   

What universities are eligible for the HPI Visa?

The university you graduated from must appear on the UK Home Office's Global Universities List shown below. The list is updated annually, and applicants must ensure their degree was awarded by an institution on the list for that year.

Do I need a job offer to apply for the HPI Visa?

No, the High Potential Individual route is unique because it does not require a job offer. Graduates can enter the UK and work, or look for work, in any field. This is unlike other visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, where applicants need a job offer from a UK employer who is an approved sponsor.

What are the benefits of the High Potential Individual Visa?

The HPI Visa offers several advantages:

1. Work Flexibility: You can work in any job (except as a professional sportsperson or sports coach).

2. Duration: If you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you can stay for up to two years. If you have a PhD, you can stay for three years.

3. Pathway to Other Visas: While the HPI Visa does not directly lead to settlement in the UK, it allows you to switch to other visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker or Innovator visa, which can lead to permanent residency.
   

Is there an English requirements for the HPI Visa?

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language at the B1 level, which means intermediate ability in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You can meet this requirement through:

• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.

• Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).

• Having a degree taught in English or holding specific English qualifications such as a GCSE or A-level in English.
  

Do I need to prove I have enough money to support myself in the UK?

You generally need to show that you have at least £1,270 in savings to support yourself when you arrive in the UK. This amount must be in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days, and the funds should be available when you apply. If you’ve been living in the UK for 12 months or more under a previous visa, you may not need to meet this financial requirement.

Can my family join me under the High Potential Individual Visa?

Yes, you can bring your partner and dependent children with you to the UK. They will need to apply for a visa as your dependents, and their stay will be tied to the duration of your own visa.

How long can I stay on the High Potential Individual Visa?

The duration of the visa depends on the level of your qualification:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree: You can stay for up to two years.

• PhD or Doctoral-level qualification: You can stay for up to three years.
  

Can I extend my High Potential Individual Visa?

The High Potential Individual Visa is not extendable. However, if you wish to remain in the UK after your visa expires, you can switch to another visa route (such as the Skilled Worker Visa, Start-up Visa, or Innovator Visa) that could lead to settlement in the UK.

What work can I do on the High Potential Individual Visa?

You can work in almost any role in the UK, except as a professional sportsperson or sports coach. This includes self-employment, freelance work, or voluntary positions. The HPI visa provides flexibility in terms of career exploration.

How can I transition from the High Potential Individual Visa to settlement in the UK?

While the High Potential Individual Visa does not directly lead to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain, ILR), you can switch to another visa route that allows for settlement. Popular routes include the Skilled Worker Visa, Start-up Visa, or Innovator Visa, which could lead to ILR after meeting the necessary requirements.

How can I apply for the High Potential Individual Visa?

To apply for the HPI Visa, you will need to complete the online application and provide evidence of your degree, proof of English language proficiency, financial documents, and possibly a tuberculosis (TB) test if required. You will also need to pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.