Short answer: If you apply for the UK Graduate visa on or after 1 January 2027, it will last 18 months instead of 2 years. If you apply on or before 31 December 2026, you still get 2 years. PhD graduates keep 3 years. Separately, the money you must show for a UK Student visa is now £1,529 a month in London and £1,171 a month outside London, for up to 9 months.

Last checked: 20 October 2026, against GOV.UK. Rules can change, so always confirm on gov.uk before you apply.

UK Graduate visa: what changed

  • Apply on or before 31 December 2026: Graduate visa for 2 years (Bachelor's and Master's).
  • Apply on or after 1 January 2027: Graduate visa for 18 months (Bachelor's and Master's).
  • PhD or other doctoral qualification: 3 years, unchanged.

The date that matters is when you apply for the Graduate visa, not when you started your course. Students finishing a one-year Master's in late 2026 should plan their results and application timing carefully.

How much money do you need for a UK Student visa?

  • London: £1,529 per month, up to 9 months (£13,761 in total).
  • Outside London: £1,171 per month, up to 9 months (£10,539 in total).
  • This is in addition to any unpaid course fees for the first year.
  • The money must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and that period must end no more than 31 days before you apply.

Other UK rules Indian students should know

  • Dependants: most taught Master's and Bachelor's students cannot bring dependants. Dependants are generally allowed only for postgraduate research courses such as a PhD.
  • Work during studies: degree-level students can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time.
  • Intakes: September is the main intake, with January and May at many universities.

Is the UK still worth it?

Yes, for many students. One-year Master's degrees, globally recognised universities and an 18-month post-study period still make the UK a strong choice, especially for students who want to start working quickly. The key is to choose a course and city that match your budget and career plan.

Frequently asked questions

Will my Graduate visa be 2 years if I started my course in 2025?

Only if you apply for the Graduate visa on or before 31 December 2026. If you apply on or after 1 January 2027, it will be 18 months.

How much bank balance do I need for a UK student visa from Punjab?

The rule is the same for every Indian applicant: £1,529 a month for London or £1,171 a month outside London, for up to 9 months, plus unpaid first-year fees, held for 28 days.

Can I take my spouse to the UK on a Master's?

Not on most taught Master's courses. Dependants are generally limited to postgraduate research students.

Official sources

Talk to a counsellor

Win Your Visa is a Punjab Government licensed consultancy (Licence No. 908) with offices in Jagraon and Ludhiana. We guide students from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and across India on UK universities, funds and visa timing. See our Study in UK page or call +91 76578 91191 to book a free counselling session.