High Potential Individual Visas
The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa was launched on 30 May 2022 to attract talented graduates from leading global universities to contribute to the UK’s innovation and growth.
This unsponsored route enables eligible recent graduates to live and work – or seek employment – in the UK without the need for sponsorship by an employer.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold an overseas degree-level academic qualification awarded within the 5 years before the date of application.
- Have obtained their qualification from a non-UK institution listed on the Global Universities List published by the Home Office at the time the degree was awarded.
- Obtain confirmation from ECCTIS that the qualification meets or exceeds the recognised standard of a UK bachelor’s or postgraduate degree. ECCTIS will also verify the date the qualification was awarded.
The Global Universities List is compiled annually and includes institutions ranked in the top 50 of at least two of the following international league tables:
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
- Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings.
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).
Applicants must also meet the English language requirement as part of the points-based assessment for this route.
Successful applicants will be granted:
- 2 years’ leave if relying on a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
- 3 years’ leave if relying on a PhD or other doctoral-level qualification.
This route does not lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), and leave cannot be extended. However, individuals may be eligible to switch to another immigration category, such as the Skilled Worker route, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.
For advice or assistance with a High Potential Individual visa application, contact our Immigration team.
