It's crucial to apply for your Graduate Visa before your student visa expires. While waiting for a decision on your Graduate Visa application, you'll still be subject to the immigration rules of your student visa. This means that you can continue working, but your working hours and the types of jobs you can do may be subject to the restrictions of your student visa. Once your Graduate Visa is approved, it will be valid from the date of approval, and you'll have the freedom to work in most jobs and switch between jobs without the previous limitations.

The processing time for a Graduate Visa application is typically around 8 weeks. Once your application is approved, your Graduate Visa will be valid for 2 years, or 3 years if you hold a PhD or another doctoral qualification. This visa provides international students with the opportunity to live and work in the UK after completing their studies.

Yes, family members in the UK who already have immigration status as a student dependent can apply to stay as dependents on your Graduate Visa. Eligible family members typically include partners and children. Each family member will need to complete a separate online application and pay the application fee and health surcharge. This allows your family members to continue living in the UK while you're on the Graduate Visa.