How long is a Student visa for a PhD?

A Student visa for a PhD typically covers the full length of your programme plus a few extra months. Most UK PhDs take 3 to 4 years full-time. You may be granted additional time (known as the 'writing up' period) at the end.

Do PhD students get the 3-year Graduate route?

Yes. PhD graduates qualify for the 3-year Graduate route, compared to 2 years for other degree holders. This gives you 3 years to work in the UK without needing a sponsor after completing your PhD.

Do I need an ATAS certificate for my PhD?

You need an ATAS certificate if your PhD is in certain science, engineering, or technology subjects. Your university will tell you if ATAS applies to your research area. The certificate is free but takes around 4 weeks to process.

Can PhD students bring dependants?

Yes. As a postgraduate student on a course lasting 9 months or more, you can bring your partner and children to the UK as dependants. They can work full-time.

Student Visa for PhD Students 2026

PhD students benefit from longer visa durations, the 3-year Graduate route, and the ability to bring dependants. But there are additional requirements like ATAS certificates for certain subjects. This guide explains everything PhD students need to know about their Student visa.

Visa Duration for PhD Students

Your Student visa for a PhD will cover the expected length of your programme. Most UK PhDs are 3 to 4 years full-time. Your visa will typically include:

The full duration of your registered programme
An additional period for writing up and submitting your thesis (usually a few months)
Time before your course starts (up to 1 month for courses under 6 months, or 2 months for longer courses)

If your PhD takes longer than expected, you can apply for a Student visa extension. The maximum time allowed for PhD-level study on Student visas is 8 years.

ATAS Requirements

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) applies to postgraduate research students in certain subjects related to advanced technology, including:

Physics, chemistry, and materials science
Engineering (mechanical, aerospace, nuclear, electronic)
Computer science and artificial intelligence
Biological sciences (in some areas)
Mathematics (in some research areas)

Your CAS will state if ATAS is required for your course. Apply through the ATAS portal on GOV.UK at least 4 weeks before your visa application. The certificate is free. If you change your research topic after receiving ATAS, you may need to apply again.

Financial Requirements

PhD students must meet the same financial requirements as other Student visa applicants. You need to show funds for outstanding tuition fees plus maintenance costs for up to 9 months.

Many PhD students are funded by scholarships, research councils, or their university. If your funding is confirmed on your CAS, it reduces the amount you need to show in your bank account. If you have a full scholarship covering fees and a stipend, you may not need to show any personal funds.

Dependants

As a postgraduate student on a course lasting more than 9 months, you can bring dependants to the UK. This includes your partner (spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner of 2+ years) and children under 18.

Your dependants can work full-time in the UK. You need to show additional maintenance funds for each dependant. The dependants guide explains the costs and requirements in detail.

Work Rights During Your PhD

PhD students follow the same work rules as other Student visa holders: up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. Teaching and demonstrating within your university counts towards these hours.

After Your PhD: The 3-Year Graduate Route

PhD graduates qualify for the Graduate route with 3 years of unrestricted work rights (compared to 2 years for other degree holders). This gives you time to find a sponsored role or build your career without needing an employer sponsor.

Alternatively, you can switch directly to a Skilled Worker visa if you find a sponsored position, or explore the Global Talent visa if your research qualifies.

Next Steps

Confirm your funding arrangements and check if ATAS applies to your research area. Apply for ATAS early, as it can take several weeks. Contact your university's doctoral office for support with your visa application.

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