High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

The High Potential Individual Visa allows graduates from top global universities to live, work, or start a business in the UK — without needing a job offer or sponsorship. It is designed to attract talented individuals with high academic potential who can contribute to the UK’s innovation and growth.

Key Features

• No sponsorship or job offer required.
• Stay in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD holders).
• Freedom to work, start a business, or study in the UK.
• Pathway to other long-term visas such as the Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder visa.
• Includes eligibility for dependants (partner and children).

Eligibility Overview

• Hold a degree from an eligible university listed on the UK Government’s Global Universities List.
• Graduation must have occurred within the last 5 years.
• Meet English language requirements (CEFR level B1 or equivalent).
• Have sufficient funds to support yourself (minimum £1,270).
• Comply with health and character standards.

Application Process

• Apply online via the official UK Government website.
• Submit degree certificate, proof of English proficiency, and financial evidence.
• Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Receive a decision within 3 to 8 weeks depending on location.

The HPI visa offers an exciting opportunity for global graduates to begin their professional journey in the UK. At Visa2Migrate, we provide expert guidance on eligibility, documentation, and next-step visa pathways for HPI holders.