The Graduate Trainee visa allows multinational employers to bring overseas employees to a UK branch as part of a structured graduate training programme. It is designed for managerial or specialist career development, not ordinary permanent recruitment.
Previously known as the Intra-company Graduate Trainee route.
Reviewed by the Morgan Smith Immigration team — IAA-regulated UK immigration specialists. Last reviewed 2026-07-08.
TL;DR
The Graduate Trainee visa is for overseas employees on a graduate training programme for a managerial or specialist role. The 2026 application fee is £340, the maximum stay is 12 months, and applications are usually decided within 3 weeks.
£340
Application fee
12 months
Maximum stay
3 weeks
Typical decision
What is the Graduate Trainee Visa?
A Graduate Trainee visa allows an existing employee of an overseas organisation to work in the employer’s UK branch as part of a graduate training programme.
The worker must have worked for the sponsor outside the UK for at least 3 months immediately before applying, have a valid CoS, do an eligible job and be paid at least £27,300 per year according to GOV.UK.
The visa cannot be extended and cannot be switched into from inside the UK.
Eligibility Requirements
You must satisfy all three conditions to qualify for the Graduate Trainee Visa.
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Graduate Programme
The role must be part of a graduate training programme for a managerial or specialist position.
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Overseas Employment
The applicant must have worked outside the UK for the sponsor for at least 3 months.
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Eligible Role & Salary
The applicant must have a CoS, eligible occupation and salary meeting the route rules.
What You Can and Cannot Do
Your rights and restrictions while in the UK on a Graduate Trainee Visa.
✓ You Can
- Work for the sponsor in the graduate trainee role described on the CoS.
- Study in the UK where it fits around the sponsored role.
- Bring eligible dependants if they meet the dependant requirements.
- Travel abroad and return while the visa is valid.
- Do permitted unpaid voluntary work alongside the sponsored placement.
✗ You Cannot
- Switch into this route inside the UK; GOV.UK says applications must be made from outside the UK.
- Extend the visa; the route does not allow extension.
- Use the route for ordinary employment outside a graduate training programme.
- Apply directly for settlement from this route.
- Access most public funds or the State Pension.
Costs & Fees
Current fees as of 2026. Set by the Home Office — subject to change.
Fees set by the Home Office and subject to change. Last reviewed: July 2026.
| Item | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Application fee | £340 |
| Temporary GBM CoS | £55 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | ~£1,035 per year |
| Personal savings | £1,270 unless exempt |
| Priority service | Additional fee — check current fees |
How to Apply
Five steps from preparation to decision.
Confirm Route Fit
Check that the worker and assignment match the specific Graduate Trainee Visa requirements.
Check Sponsor Licence Coverage
Confirm the UK sponsor holds the correct route coverage before assigning a CoS.
Assign the Certificate of Sponsorship
Enter the role, salary, occupation code, start date and work location accurately.
Submit the Online Application
The worker applies from outside the UK because switching into this route is not permitted, proves identity and provides documents.
Receive Your Decision
GOV.UK usually lists a decision within 3 weeks for outside-UK applications after identity and documents are provided.
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Sources
Legal information on this page is based on guidance from GOV.UK, the UK Home Office / UK Visas and Immigration, legislation.gov.uk, and Free Movement. Rules change frequently — speak to our team to confirm current requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Graduate Trainee Visa from employers and applicants.
What is the Graduate Trainee Visa UK?
The Graduate Trainee Visa is a Global Business Mobility route for a specific temporary UK business assignment. It is used for overseas employees coming to the UK branch as part of a graduate training programme.
How much does a Graduate Trainee Visa cost?
The 2026 Home Office application fee is £340. Applicants should also check IHS and financial requirements, and sponsors should check the relevant CoS fee.
How long can you stay on a Graduate Trainee Visa?
The maximum stay is up to 12 months, subject to the Certificate of Sponsorship period and any wider GBM maximum-stay cap.
Can you bring dependants on a Graduate Trainee Visa?
Eligible partners and children can apply as dependants if they meet the dependant requirements.
Does a Graduate Trainee Visa lead to settlement?
No. Global Business Mobility routes do not lead directly to indefinite leave to remain.
Does a Graduate Trainee Visa need a Certificate of Sponsorship?
Yes. The applicant needs a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from the UK sponsor before applying.
Can you study on a Graduate Trainee Visa?
Yes, study is generally permitted where it does not prevent the sponsored work.
Can you change jobs on a Graduate Trainee Visa?
A worker cannot simply change job or sponsor without meeting the update or new-application rules.
How long does a Graduate Trainee Visa decision take?
Most outside-UK applications are usually decided within 3 weeks after identity and documents are provided.
What should sponsors check before using the Graduate Trainee Visa route?
Sponsors should check licence coverage, occupation code, salary or contract requirements, CoS details and evidence before the application is submitted.
Need Help With Your Graduate Trainee Visa?
Our immigration specialists handle everything from sponsor licence checks to visa approval — for employers and applicants alike.