A lot of tech and STEM graduates finish school thinking about how to work, stay, or even continue their studies abroad. But the problem is that most visas that allow any of this usually come with conditions like sponsorship or getting a job offer, and even then, you’re often restricted to just one path before you arrive.
So, instead of waiting for sponsorship or job offers, the UK High Potential Individual visa grants you the flexibility to work, study, and stay in the UK without sponsorship. It’s designed for recent graduates from top universities around the world and gives you up to two years to work, freelance, or look for a job. On top of that, it allows you to switch to a longer-term visa before it expires if you decide to stay on.
Here is everything you need to know about the UK High Potential Individual visa:
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa and Who is Eligible
The HPI visa is a flexible route for talented professionals to kickstart their careers in the UK. It lets you live, study, and work for up to two years, and you don’t need a job offer to apply.
To qualify, applicants must have the required documents and have earned a degree from an eligible university within the last five years, making this route particularly relevant for recent graduates from recognised institutions.
It’s also worth noting that the HPI visa operates within an annual application cycle. The application year runs from 1 November to 31 October, and only 8,000 visas are issued each year. If the quota has already been filled, applicants are notified during the online application process.
Documents Required
- Valid Passport for the duration of stay.
- Ecctis Academic Qualification Level Statement to confirm if your degree is equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree or higher.
- University Degree Certificate from an eligible global university in the last 5 years.
- English Language Proficiency of B2 level, such as a test certificate or a degree taught in English.
- Financial Evidence to prove you have at least £1,270 ($1,734) in savings to support yourself, held for 28 consecutive days.
- Medical test certificate.
How long can you stay on the HPI visa?
Like the Scale-up worker visa, the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa is granted for two years. If you hold a PhD or another doctoral-level qualification, the visa is issued for three years.
Unlike some other UK visa routes, the HPI visa cannot be extended once it expires. If you want to remain in the UK beyond that period, you’ll need to switch to another visa category, such as the Skilled Worker visa, before your HPI visa runs out.
It’s also important to note that time spent in the UK on an HPI visa does not count toward permanent settlement. This means it doesn’t contribute to the five-year requirement if you later apply for indefinite Leave to Remain.
How much does High Potential Individual (HPI) visa cost?
Applying for an HPI visa comes with several fees. The application itself costs £880 ($1,201), and you’ll also need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is usually around £1,035 ($1,413) per year. On top of that, you’ll need to show you can support yourself financially when you arrive in the UK with at least £1,270 ($1,734), unless you’re exempt. Plus, there’s an additional £252 ($344) fee for Ecctis to verify your qualification, which includes VAT.
Bringing your family with you
If your dependents meet the eligibility requirements, the HPI visa lets you bring certain family members to the UK, including your partner and children.
To qualify, you’ll need to show evidence of your relationship. This can include proof that:
- You are married or in a civil partnership that is recognised in the UK.
- You have been living together in a long-term relationship for at least two years by the time you applied.
- For children, they must be unmarried and live with you.
- Show that your dependents can support themselves financially with at least £285 ($389) for your partner, £315 ($430) for one child, and £200 ($273) for each additional child.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for High Potential Individual Visa
When applying for an HPI visa, you want to ensure you are within the allowed timeframe, which means you must submit your application within five years of being awarded a qualification from an eligible university.
Step 1: Get Your Qualification Verified (Ecctis)
Your first step is to apply for an Ecctis verification. This confirms that your qualification meets UK standards and that your university is on the list of eligible institutions. You’ll need to submit details of your degree and supporting documents, and once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation to include in your visa application.
Step 2: Apply Online
After receiving your Ecctis verification, you can complete your application on the official GOV.UK website. You’ll be asked to create or sign in to a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account and fill in your personal, educational, and travel details.
Step 3: Pay the Required Fees
As part of the online application, you’ll pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Payment must be completed before you can move forward with the rest of the process.
Step 4: Prove Your Identity
Next, you’ll be asked to verify your identity. Some applicants can do this using the UK Immigration: ID Check app, while others may need to attend an appointment at a visa application centre to provide their fingerprints and photograph. Your application will clearly state which option applies to you.
Step 5: Submit Your Supporting Documents
And lastly, you’ll upload or submit all required documents, including your passport, Ecctis verification, and any additional evidence requested. Once everything is submitted, your application will be processed, and you’ll be notified of the decision.
David Adubiina
