Does my job need to be sponsored?

No. Like the Graduate visa, the HPI visa is unsponsored. You can work in almost any role, be self-employed, or change partners without needing to notify the Home Office.

Can I extend this visa?

No. You cannot extend the HPI visa. You must switch to a different visa (like Skilled Worker) before your current visa expires if you want to stay in the UK.

How long is the visa valid for?

If you have a bachelor's or master's degree, it is valid for 2 years. If you have a PhD or other doctoral qualification, it is valid for 3 years.

United Kingdom

High Potential Individual Visa

HPI

GBP 937

Application Fee

21–56 days

Processing Time

24 Months

Maximum Stay

None

Extensions

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply on the official government website

Last verified: 15 April 2026. Not legal advice.

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