Duke students & alumni: did you know that you might qualify for the United Kingdom’s High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa?
The HPI visa gives permission for you to stay in the UK for at least two years. The best part? No employer sponsorship required! If you have been awarded a qualification by an eligible university (including Duke) in the last 5 years, can prove your knowledge of English, and can prove that you can financially support yourself in the UK, you are eligible to apply!
Want to learn more? Check out the UK Government’s guide to the HPI visa and this helpful guide, written by Jemima Owen-Jones on Deel.
Here’s an except from Owen-Jones’ Article:
“Key takeaways
- The HPI visa is a post-study work visa scheme for talented university graduates worldwide.
- The visa allows internationals and their families to live and work in the UK for up to three years.
- To qualify for the visa, candidates must meet financial requirements and have graduated within the past five years with a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree from a top-rated global university.
Are you an exceptional talent seeking new horizons to flourish in your field? Look no further.
The United Kingdom welcomes top achievers through its exclusive High Potential Individual visa. This visa offers a pathway to unlock a world of opportunities and make the UK your home while contributing significantly to its economy and society.
How long can you stay in the UK on an HPI visa?
An HPI visa permits you to stay in the UK for two years if you have received an undergraduate or Master’s degree. If you have a Ph.D. or other doctoral qualification, it will last for three years.
Can you extend your stay in the UK?
If you want to stay longer in the UK, you cannot extend your HPI visa. However, you may be able to stay longer if you’re eligible for the following visas:
- Student visa
- Graduate visa
- Skilled Worker visa
What can you do on an HPI visa?
You can:
- Work in most jobs
- Look for work
- Be self-employed
- Live in the UK with your partner and children, if they’re eligible
- Do voluntary work
- Travel abroad and return to the UK
What can’t you do on an HPI visa?
You cannot:
- Apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension
- Work as a professional sportsperson
- Extend this visa
- Apply to settle permanently in the UK
Studying with an HPI visa
You can only study with an HPI visa if your chosen course is not eligible for a student visa. If your course is eligible for a student visa, you can apply for a student visa instead or extend your student visa if you already have one.
You may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if you’re studying or researching sensitive topics.
What are the financial requirements to apply?
When you apply for an HPI visa, you’ll need to have enough money to:
- Pay £210 for Ecctis to check that your qualification is valid (£252 if you’re applying from the UK)
- Pay the £715 application fee
- Pay the healthcare surcharge – this is usually £624 for each year you’ll be in the UK
- Support yourself when you arrive in the UK – you’ll usually need to have at least £1,270 available in your bank account (unless you’re exempt)
How to qualify for the High Potential Individual Visa
The HPI visa is tailor-made for individuals with extraordinary skills and talents in various domains such as arts, technology, academia, business, and more. To qualify for the UK High Potential Individual visa, you must meet specific criteria:
Graduated with a top global university: You must have graduated within the past five years with a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree from an eligible university listed on the Home Office top-rated Global Universities List for your respective graduation year:
- November 1, 2022, to October 31, 2023
- November 1, 2021, to October 31, 2022
- November 1, 2020, to October 31, 2021
- November 1, 2019 to October 31, 2020
- November 1, 2018, to October 31, 2019
- November 1, 2017, to October 31, 2018
- November 1, 2016, to October 31, 2017
Endorsement from a designated competent body: Secure an endorsement from a UK government-designated competent body that recognizes your outstanding accomplishments and potential to make a difference in your field.
Remarkable track record: Showcase an exceptional track record of achievements in your profession, academics, or creative pursuits. Highlight your extraordinary talent and potential to leave a lasting impact in the UK.
Significant contribution: Demonstrate how your presence in the UK will significantly benefit the country economically, culturally, or academically.
Financial capacity: Show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents during your stay in the UK. The HPI visa aims to attract individuals who can positively contribute to the nation without relying on public assistance.
Meet English language requirements: You must be able to meet the English language requirements at least a level B1 if you are from a different country.”
