High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa
For Top Global University Graduates
Key Features & Benefits
- โ No job offer required
- โ Open to top global university graduates
- โ Work in most jobs (including self-employed)
- โ No English language test (for most)
- โ 2-year visa (3 years for PhD holders)
- โ Bring dependants (partner & children)
๐ Annual Cap Notice
The HPI visa is capped at 8,000 applications per year. The application year runs from 1 November to 31 October. Once the cap is reached, no further applications will be accepted for that year. Early application is strongly recommended.
Eligibility Requirements
- Graduate from an eligible university within the last 5 years
- Bachelorโs, masterโs, or PhD degree from an institution on the Global Universities List (GUL)
- Sufficient maintenance funds (usually ยฃ1,270)
- Valid passport
- Tuberculosis test (if applicable)
- Have not previously been granted permission as a Graduate or HPI visa
Global Universities List (GUL)
Your university must appear on the Home Office's Global Universities List for the year you graduated. The list is updated annually and includes top-ranked institutions worldwide. For 2025, the list is significantly expanded to 80 universities.
To apply, you must first get your qualification verified by Ecctis. This is a mandatory step to confirm your degree meets the required standard.
Application Process
Check your university
Confirm your degree is on the GUL for your graduation year.
Get Ecctis verification
Pay Ecctis to verify your qualification before applying.
Apply online
Complete the application on GOV.UK before the annual cap is reached.
Biometrics & decision
Provide fingerprints and a photo. Decision typically within 3 weeks (outside UK) or 8 weeks (inside UK).
Fees & Costs
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee | Varies (check GOV.UK for current fees) |
| Healthcare surcharge | ยฃ1,035 per year |
| Ecctis verification | Fees set by Ecctis, payable before application |
| Biometric enrolment | Usually included (no separate fee) |
Duration & Settlement
- Initial visa length: 2 years (3 years for PhD holders)
- Cannot be extended โ You must switch to another visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa, before this visa expires if you wish to stay longer.
- Settlement (ILR): โ No. Time on an HPI visa does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Did You Graduate From a Top Global University?
Check if your university is on the eligible list and if you qualify for the HPI visa.
Check Your University Book ConsultationOn This Page
Need Help With Your Application?
We can assist with the Ecctis verification and your HPI visa application.
Book Consultation โ