Research and analysis

High Potential Individual (HPI) route evaluation: Exploring experiences of the HPI visa

Published 12 May 2025

Executive Summary

The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa route was launched in May 2022 and was designed to attract global talent to drive economic growth.

It does not require sponsorship and is open to those who, in the previous 5 years, have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK undergraduate degree or postgraduate degree at an institution listed on the government’s global universities list for the year they qualified.

This research explores the motivations, experiences, current activities, and future plans of HPI visa holders and their dependants. The evaluation of the HPI route included a (mostly online) quantitative survey of 656 HPI main visa holders and 44 qualitative interviews with HPI main visa holders and dependants. Figures and percentages throughout the report refer to the (weighted) characteristics of HPI visa holders that responded to the survey,

Population profile

HPI visa holders are a varied and highly mobile cohort. The 3 most common countries of nationality (weighted survey responses) were the USA (26%), India (17%) and China (12%). The vast majority of HPI visa holders were under the age of 40 (95%), with almost two-thirds (63%) aged between 18 and 29, and just under a third (31%) aged between 30 and 39.

Just over half of HPI visa holders obtained their visa eligible qualification from a US institution (55%), and a further third were split fairly evenly between universities in Canada (8%), Australia (8%), China (7%) and Singapore (7%).

Two-fifths of HPI visa holders qualified for the HPI visa with an undergraduate level qualification (38%). Just over half (53%) held a masters degree and a further tenth (9%) held a doctoral level degree.

Motivations for coming to the UK

Almost half (47%) of all HPI visa holders first heard about the HPI visa via online searching, and a further third (36%) through word of mouth.

Almost two-thirds of HPI visa holders (64%) had considered moving to other countries (most commonly the US, Canada, or Australia), before applying for the HPI visa. Only a third (33%) of HPI visa holders had considered other UK visas.

Just under three-quarters (70%) of visa holders mentioned different aspects of the HPI visa itself as key factors attracting them to the UK. These included being able to move to the UK without a job offer and the relative ease of the application process (compared to the perceptions of the application process for other UK or third country visas).

HPI visa application process

Over four-fifths (85%) of HPI visa holders had a positive experience applying for the visa, with over half describing it as ‘very positive’ (55%).

This compares positively to the Graduate route: a higher proportion of HPI visa holders found the application process easy (78%) compared to the Graduate route (67%)^{[footnote 1]}.

The majority of HPI visa holders found all elements of the application process easy, though US nationals were generally more likely to find individual elements difficult. For example, 18% of US nationals found the application process difficult (compared to 9% overall), 17% found locating information and documents difficult (compared to 11% overall) and 15% found navigating the online application form difficult (compared to 7% overall)

Where HPI visa holders interviewed had experienced issues they cited problems with unclear information on timings, or specific issues related to their application, such as the cost of needing to have their degree certificate translated into English, or the requirement for degree certificates to include dates.

Just under three-quarters (72%) of HPI visa holders said the experience of getting updates and communication from the Home Office was positive, with around one in 8 (12%) describing it as negative.

Current activities of HPI visa holders

Nearly all HPI visa holders had planned to work once they got to the UK (96%), and the majority (78%) were in work at the time of the survey. HPI visa holders who had job offers when deciding to come to the UK were predominantly still working for the same employer (78%) at the time of the survey. There were also some differences in employment rates by nationality and age, with US nationals most likely to be in work (86%), and those over 40 most likely to be self-employed (19% compared to 9% overall).

HPI visa holders worked in a wide range of sectors. The top 3 sectors were information and communication (17%), financial and insurance activities (13%) and education (13%). Nearly half (49%) of HPI visa holders were employed in professional occupations. A further fifth were employed in associate professional occupations (21%), followed by about a tenth in managerial or senior official roles (9%).

HPI visa holders commanded relatively high salaries. Nearly half earned over £40,000 (46%), an income level which would make them eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa^{[footnote 2]} (meeting the general salary threshold) in the future. A third were earning over £50,000 (27%) and one in 8 earned over £75,000 (12%).

HPI visa holders were predominantly (71%) doing what they had planned to at the time of their visa application. HPI visa holders who were not doing what they had originally planned primarily attributed this to employment-related challenges (94%).

In general, HPI visa holders were mostly happy in the UK and integrating well into life in the UK, as revealed in the qualitative interviews. Several commented positively on social diversity and freedom of expression in the UK.

HPI visa holders mentioned some barriers to securing employment, including a competitive job market as well as low employer awareness of the HPI visa. Some also mentioned the relatively short visa duration as an issue.

Dependants

The majority (81%) of HPI visa holders did not have dependants. Almost all (96%) HPI visa holders with dependants had their partner as a dependant, and 38% had dependent children. Older HPI visa holders (40 years old and older) and those with postgraduate-level qualifications were more likely to have dependants associated with their visa.

Most (69%) of those with dependants would not have moved to the UK if the HPI visa did not allow dependants.

Two thirds (67%) of dependent partners were in work, with a further 16% looking for work. Dependent partners worked in a wide variety of jobs. The most common occupational group was Professional Occupations (40%), followed by 14% working in Associate Professional and Technical Occupations, and 12% in Caring, Leisure and Other Service Occupations. Roughly half (51%) earned below £40,000 per year, and one in 5 (19%) earned over £50,000 per year.

Plans for the future

Most (66%) HPI visa holders were planning to stay in the UK for longer than the duration of their current visa. HPI visa holders with dependent children were more likely to be planning to remain in the UK for longer than the duration of their visa (90%) than those with only dependent partners (61%) or those without any dependants (65%).

Three quarters (75%) of the HPI visa holders who were considering staying beyond the length of their visa were considering the Skilled Worker visa route, while just under a third (29%) were considering the Global Talent visa route.

1. Introduction

The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa route was launched in May 2022 and sits alongside other routes, such as the Global Talent visa, which are designed to attract global talent to drive economic growth.

The HPI visa is open to those who, in the previous 5 years, have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK undergraduate degree or postgraduate degree at an institution listed on the government’s global universities list for the year they qualified. It does not require a sponsor or job offer and HPI visa holders can become self-employed. A partner and children can apply to join as dependants if eligible.^{[footnote 3]}

Between May 2022 and end June 2024, roughly 4,500 main applicant visas and around 620 dependant visas had been granted under the route for applications from outside the UK.^{[footnote 4]}

Relatively little is known about the views and experiences of HPI visa holders. This study aims to inform wider evaluation of the HPI scheme and provide insight into how it is operating. It explores the motivations, experiences, current activities, and future plans of HPI visa holders and their dependants.

2. Methodology

The evaluation of the HPI visa route included a (mostly online) quantitative survey completed by 656 HPI main visa holders and 44 qualitative interviews with HPI main visa holders and adult dependent partners.

2.1 Survey

The survey was carried out between 30 May and 28 June 2024.

The survey covered:

• details of studies completed (level of study, subject, university)
• motivations for coming to the UK
• the influence of the HPI route in coming to the UK
• economic activity of HPI route users (occupation and earnings)
• details about and economic activity of dependants
• use of public services (by main applicant and dependants)
• level of integration (by main applicant and dependants)
• HPI route users’ plans for the future

All HPI visa main applicants for which the Home Office held a personal email address were invited to take part in an online survey. They were further screened at the beginning of the survey to ensure respondents were currently living in the UK on an HPI visa.

During the fieldwork period, up to 4 reminders were sent to HPI visa holders who had not completed the survey yet. In addition, some HPI visa holders were contacted by telephone to encourage survey completion (although, as telephone numbers were collected at the time of visa application, most of them were non-UK numbers and no longer in use by the visa holder).

The final response rate was 17%, with a total of 656 completed surveys (641 online and 15 by phone). Responses were weighted to match the population profile based on nationality (US, India, China, and all other countries) and by age (29 and under, 30 to 39, and 40 and over). The split by gender was also weighted to match the gender profile for the overall HPI visa holder population.

2.2 Survey completes profile: original and weighted

Survey completes	Aged 29 and under	30-39	40+	Total
United States of America	116	34	6	156
China	48	33	4	85
India	42	38	5	85
All others	148	140	42	330
Total	354	245	57	656

Survey completes profile	Aged 29 and under	30-39	40+	Total
United States of America	17.7%	5.2%	0.9%	23.8%
China	7.3%	5.0%	0.6%	13.0%
India	6.4%	5.8%	0.8%	13.0%
All others	22.6%	21.3%	6.4%	50.3%
Total	54.0%	37.3%	8.7%	100.0%

Weighted population profile	Aged 29 and under	30-39	40+	Total
United States of America	21.3%	4.7%	0.5%	26.5%
China	10.4%	6.2%	0.9%	17.5%
India	6.4%	5.0%	0.7%	12.1%
All others	25.3%	15.4%	3.2%	43.9%
Total	63.4%	31.3%	5.3%	100.0%

2.3 In-depth interviews

For the qualitative element, follow-up interviews were conducted with 32 HPI main visa holders and 12 dependants. HPI visa holders were asked at the end of the survey if they were willing to be contacted for a longer semi-structured discussion, and if they were willing to share their dependent partner’s details (with consent). The interviews were conducted over Microsoft Teams or over the phone and lasted 45 minutes on average for HPI main visa holders and 25 minutes for dependants. The profile of respondents was selected to cover a wide range of experiences and profiles, based on employment status and occupation type, level of study, salary level, nationality, whether or not they had dependants on their visa, and their future intentions.

Topics covered in the interviews included the decision-making process, visa application process, plans on arrival, current economic activity, views on and experiences of life in the UK and plans for the future. The visa application process and plans on arrival were covered in more detail in the main applicant interviews.

Table 2: Profile of qualitative in-depth interviews with HPI main visa holders

Nationality	Number of completes
United States of America	9
India	6
China	5
All others	12

Gender	Number of completes
Male	17
Female	15

Age	Number of completes
Aged 29 and under	19
Aged 30 and over	13

Qualification	Number of completes
Undergraduate	12
Masters	15
Doctorate	5

Subject	Number of completes
STEM	19
Non-STEM	13

Employment status	Number of completes
Employed	25
Not employed	7

Employment level	Number of completes
Employed full time	18
Employed part time	5
Looking for work	6
Self-employed	2
Undertaking voluntary work	1

Salary	Number of completes
Above £40,000	11
Below £40,000	13
N/A	8

Dependants	Number of completes
Have dependants	9
No dependants	23

Total: 32

2.4 Interpreting the findings

Figures and percentages throughout the report refer to the (weighted) characteristics of HPI visa holders that responded to the survey.

All differences reported are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level, unless otherwise stated, that is, statistically we can be confident that 95% of the time that the differences are ‘real’ differences and not a result of findings being based on a sample of HPI visa holders (those that responded to the survey) rather than a census of all HPI visa holders.

Throughout, the report makes comparisons between different subgroups, as well as between a subgroup and the overall the average for all HPI visa holders. This is usually referred to as ‘X being more likely to Y than average’. The average refers to the average for all HPI visa holders who were asked that question.

Due to rounding to the nearest whole number, percentages may not total to exactly 100%.

Comparison boxes are included where comparison is possible between the HPI visa research and the Graduate route research findings. However, as these routes have different cohorts and demographics, and not all questions map exactly onto each other, these comparisons with the Graduate route need to be interpreted with caution.

3. High Potential Individual (HPI) visa population profile

This chapter provides an overview of HPI visa holders’ characteristics, including demographic information, as well as level, subject and country of study. While the profile on nationality, age and gender is based on the overall HPI visa holder population, the information related to their qualifications is based on the weighted survey answers.

3.1 Overall demographic profile

Nationality

High Potential Individual (HPI) visa holders held a wide range of nationalities. The 3 most common countries of nationality were the USA, India, and China. US nationals accounted for a quarter (26%) of all HPI visa holders, while Indian nationals represented 17% and Chinese nationals represented 12% of all HPI visa holders. Together, these 3 nationalities represented more than half (56%) of all HPI visa holders. The next most common nationalities were Singaporean, Canadian, and Pakistani, but these each accounted for 4% of all HPI visas and were therefore grouped with all other nationalities (44% in total) for analysis.

Gender

Just under half (45%) of HPI visa holders were male and 55% were female.

Male HPI visa holders were more likely to be Indian nationals (17%), have a postgraduate degree (75%), be over the age of 30 (46%), have studied a STEM subject at university (44%), and earn more than £40,000 (39%), than female visa holders. Female HPI visa holders, on the other hand, were more likely to be US nationals (38%), have an undergraduate degree (48%), be under the age of 30 (71%), have studied a non-STEM subject (73%), and be earning less than £40,000 (44%), compared to male HPI visa holders.

Age

The vast majority of HPI visa holders were under the age of 40 (95%), with almost two-thirds (63%) aged between 18 and 29, and just under a third (31%) aged between 30 and 39.

Those aged 18 to 29 were more likely to hold an undergraduate degree (57%), be a US national (34%), and be women (62%). Those over the age of 30 were more likely than average to have a postgraduate degree (95%), to have dependants on their visa (26%), and be men (57%), and less likely than average to be employed (63%).

Figure 1: HPI visa holders population profile by nationality, age group and gender profile

3.2 Qualifications

Country of study

The list of eligible Higher Education Institutions that allow graduates to qualify for the HPI visa changes slightly from year to year, depending on year of qualification award. In total, 50 different institutions have conferred eligible qualifications in at least one year from 2017 to the start of fieldwork in 2024 (with many being eligible in multiple years, but others in a single year only). This list of 50 institutions includes 25 US universities, 5 in China, and 3 or fewer in any other single country (including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and some European countries)^{[footnote 5]}, although the exact geographical pattern of institutions which confer eligible qualifications varies by year. The broad pattern is reflected in the country of study of HPI visa holders.

Just over half of HPI visa holders obtained their visa eligible qualification from a US institution (55%), and a further third were split fairly evenly between universities in Canada (8%), Australia (8%), China (7%) and Singapore (7%). The remainder (13% of the total) graduated from universities in other countries, and were grouped together for the analysis.

Overall, 3 in 5 HPI visa holders studied in a country different from the country of their nationality (61%). The 2 in 5 (39%) who studied in their home country were largely US nationals, the vast majority of whom studied in the USA (95%). One in 5 (18%) Chinese nationals, a quarter (25%) of the ‘other’ nationals, and none of the Indian nationals studied in their home countries (the latter is explained by no Indian institutions in the list of qualifying institutions for the HPI visa).

Figure 2: The country of university attended, by HPI visa holders’ nationality

Level of study

Two-fifths of HPI visa holders qualified for the HPI visa with an undergraduate level qualification (38%). Just over half (53%) held a masters degree and a further tenth (9%) held a doctoral level degree (equating to a total of 62% qualifying for the HPI visa on the basis of a postgraduate degree overall).

Those with an undergraduate-level qualification were more likely to be aged 29 and under (95%), women (70%), US nationals (46%) and in work (83%), but earning under £40,000 a year (45%), than average. Those with postgraduate level degrees were more likely to be Chinese (22%) or Indian (19%), men (54%) and to have dependants (19%) than average.

Subject of study

HPI visa holders provided the name of their programme of study, and these were coded to official HESA Common Aggregation Hierarchy (CAH) codes. About two-thirds of HPI visa holders studied a non-STEM subject (65%) and the other third (34%) studied STEM subjects^{[footnote 6]}. HPI visa holders studied a wide range of subjects, the most popular of which were Business Management, studied by a fifth of HPI visa holders (19%), Engineering and Technology (15%), and Social Sciences (12%), followed by Design, and Creative and Performing Arts (7%), Combined and General Studies (6%) and Computing (5%). All other subjects were each studied by less than 5% of the HPI visa holder population.

However, HPI visa holders’ own interpretation of whether the subject of their study was STEM or non-STEM differed slightly: 41% considered their subject to be STEM, 44% non-STEM, and 15% said that it was a mix of the 2 or that they were unsure.

Throughout this report, comparisons between STEM and non-STEM subjects are based on the HESA CAH coding rather than the self-identified categories.

3.3 Profile by nationality

There are distinct groups within the HPI visa holder population. US nationals make up a quarter of all HPI visa holders (26%) and are predominantly women (79%) in their twenties (80% are below thirty), with no dependants (93%). This is reflected in their qualifying level of study: two-thirds qualified for the visa with an undergraduate degree (66%), from a US university (95%), mostly in a non-STEM subject (72%). They have the highest employment rate (86% in work), though are less likely to be working in professional occupations (41%) and more likely to be working in sales and elementary occupations (5% each) and in the arts sector (20%).

Chinese HPI visa holders are similar to the overall survey population in terms of age, subject of study, and dependant profile. They are more likely to be female (62%), and to hold a postgraduate degree (78%). Just under a fifth (18%) graduated from a Chinese university, while almost half (47%) graduated from a US institution. They were more likely to be looking for work (26%) compared to the average for all HPI visa holders.

Indian nationals are mostly male (65%), postgraduate degree holders (81%), especially masters (75%), and fairly evenly split between those aged 29 and under (53%) and 30 and over (47%). Half had graduated from US institutions (55%) and a quarter from Singaporean institutions (23%). While their level of employment was similar to the average (80% in work), they were more likely to be in managerial positions (16%, compared with 9% average), to work in the financial sector (22%) and real estate (18%), and to earn over £40,000 (62%) or over £50,000 (41%).

4. Motivations for coming to the UK

This chapter looks at how HPI visa holders found out about the route and what role the HPI visa itself played in their decision to come to the UK. It also covers other visa routes and potential destinations considered by HPI visa holders, and the reasons they chose the UK HPI visa over other options they considered.

4.1 HPI visa application timing

The HPI visa allows for a maximum period of 5 years between the time of qualification award from one of the listed qualifying institutions and the time of the visa application. About a third of current HPI visa holders graduated between 2017 and 2019 (36%), while two-thirds graduated between 2020 and 2024 (64%). Chinese nationals were more likely than average to have graduated before 2020 (47%).

HPI visa holders were fairly evenly distributed across the allowed application period, as shown in Figure 3. Between 14% and 19% of HPI visa holders applied for the HPI visa in each of the 5 year-long periods since graduation. The average (mean) time between HPI visa holders’ graduation and their HPI visa application was 2.4 years.

Figure 3: Number of years between graduating and applying for the visa

Of HPI visa holders for whom there was more than a year between graduation and coming to the UK, 93% worked for at least part of this period with 77% working in a sector relevant to their studies. About a quarter spent some time working in a sector not relevant to their studies (24%), though this rose to 36% among US nationals. Additionally, 17% spent at least some of their time in further education or training; again, this proportion was higher among US nationals (25%).

4.2 How visa holders first heard about the HPI visa

Almost half (47%) of all HPI visa holders surveyed first heard about the HPI visa via online searching, either while researching different visa options in the UK and other countries, or while browsing the internet more generally. The second most common way people found out about the visa was through word of mouth (36%), including from former colleagues, friends in the UK, or family members.

Figure 4: How visa holders first found out about the HPI visa

Chinese nationals were more likely to say they heard about the HPI visa via online searching (59%), as were PhD holders (60%). By nationality, US nationals were most likely to have heard about the route through word of mouth (49%). Those who were self-employed (50%) were also more likely to have heard about the route via word of mouth.

Qualitative respondents mentioned that they found out about the HPI visa either through networks of university classmates, through newsletters and online news, or through their own research.

“We knew quite a while before my PhD that we wanted to live here permanently… I actually didn’t even know about the HPI visa, I just heard from a friend that there might be something for people who graduated from a top university.” HPI visa holder, USA, Doctorate, no dependants

4.3 What attracted HPI visa holders to the UK

Visa holders tended to have considered several countries as potential places to live following their studies. They tended to have decided to move to the UK because of a specific job offer or because of the HPI visa itself (63%) (in particular the fact they did not need to secure employment in advance), rather than having planned or wanted to come to the UK for a long period before they became eligible for the visa.

Most respondents decided to move to the UK shortly before applying for the HPI visa, according to the qualitative interviews. Some started considering the UK as an option once they found out about the HPI visa specifically, while a few decided they wanted to come to the UK close to the end of their studies or immediately after their final exams.

“[I decided to come to the UK] as soon as I found out about the HPI programme and that my university qualified for it, which was about 6 months before I graduated.”

HPI visa holder, Pakistan, masters, has dependants

The nature of the HPI visa itself had a very important influence on most HPI visa holders’ decisions to come to the UK. HPI visa-related reasons were mentioned by 70% of HPI visa holders as a key factor attracting them to the UK. These reasons included the nature of the HPI visa, that is, what it allows holders to do in the UK (cited by 63% of HPI visa holders) and the relative ease of the application process (cited by 33%), as shown in Figure 5.

“I would say it [the HPI visa] was the most important factor, because I wanted to come to the UK without worrying whether or not my employer could get me there and I feel like it gave me a leg up.”

HPI visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

The next most commonly cited aspects that attracted HPI visa holders to the UK were the UK being an English-speaking country (48%), the work and study opportunities that it offers (45%), and the appeal or familiarity of British culture (38%).

Figure 5: What attracted people to the UK

US nationals were more likely to cite the appeal of British culture (54%), quality of life in the UK (47%), personal networks in the UK (46%), and access to good public services such as healthcare (39%) as their reasons for choosing to move to the UK. In contrast, Indian nationals more likely to cite visa related reasons (81%) and opportunities for dependants to work (17%).

4.4 Other UK visas considered and reason for choosing the HPI visa

A third (33%) of HPI visa holders considered other UK visas. Most (64%) HPI visa holders had not considered any other UK visa options. The remaining 3% were unsure or preferred not to give an answer. Those with dependants (73%) and those not planning to remain in the UK long term (80%) were more likely to fall into the latter category. This suggests that, for many HPI visa holders, the existence of the HPI route itself was a critical factor in attracting them to the UK.

Just over half of those who considered other UK visas had considered the Skilled Worker visa route (58%) as an alternative option, as shown in Figure 6. Those already employed (63%), aged 29 and under (65%) and those who studied a STEM subject (68%) were more likely to have considered the Skilled Worker visa than average.

The second most commonly considered alternative visa was the Global Talent visa (17%), which was more likely to be considered by those aged 30 and over (31%), Chinese nationals (40%) and PhD holders (37%).

Figure 6: Other UK visas considered

In contrast, although only 4% of those who considered other UK visas had considered the Innovator Founder visa route, more than a tenth (12%) of Chinese nationals considered it.

HPI visa holders who had considered alternative UK visas reported applying for a HPI visa over some other UK visa routes because of the work flexibility offered by the HPI visa, and the perception of a more straightforward application process. Not needing to have a job offer when moving to the UK was the biggest motivator in choosing the HPI visa over other UK visas (73%). Other commonly cited factors were the flexibility (47%) and ease of application (44%), especially when comparing the HPI application process with that for other UK visas (38%), while a quarter of HPI visa holders appreciated the ability to be self-employed on the HPI visa (25%).

Almost a quarter (24%) of HPI visa holders said it was the only UK visa route for which they could qualify.

Figure 7: Reasons for choosing the HPI visa over other UK visas

The survey findings were echoed in the qualitative interviews. Respondents mentioned that they chose the HPI visa over other UK visas because it was easier to apply for (as well as cheaper and faster than other routes considered), did not require much paperwork, and it allowed them to push the need for employer sponsorship to further down the line.

“I would say [the HPI visa] was the most important factor, because I wanted to come to the UK without worrying whether or not my employer could get me there and I feel like it gave me a leg up. Even though my organisation could sponsor me [in the future], they were quite happy for me to come with the HPI visa. That basically gave them a little bit of breathing room for that year.”

HPI visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

“With fashion they’re very stingy, so it would have been almost impossible straight after graduating to get a job with sponsorship, new company, all of that.”

HPI visa holder, USA, Undergraduate, no dependants

Some HPI visa holders were considering moving to the UK permanently, and felt the HPI visa provided a good opportunity to trial living and working in the UK. It allowed them to find or look for jobs once already in the UK, which they felt made the job-hunting process easier, as employers were more likely to offer them interviews if they had a UK address and phone number, and so could show commitment to living in the UK, at least in the short term.

“For me, there was never a consideration that I wouldn’t be working, [but] the option of not having to need a job is, I think, a massive benefit. 100% a massive benefit.”

HPI visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

4.5 Other countries considered and reasons for choosing the UK

Almost two-thirds of HPI visa holders (64%) had considered moving to other countries before applying for the HPI visa. There were some significant differences by nationality: US nationals were more likely to have studied in their country of nationality (95%) and least likely to have considered moving to other countries (just 39% had done so). On the other hand, three-quarters of Chinese (75%) and Indian nationals (76%) had considered other destinations (all Indian nationals had already studied in a different country, so were already part of a globally mobile cohort).

Other groups who were more likely to have considered other destinations were graduates from Australian universities (82%), those aged 40 and over (79%, compared to 61% aged 29 and under), men (71% compared to 58% of women), and masters graduates (69% compared to 59% of undergraduates).

Those who studied in a country other than the country of their nationality were also more likely to have considered moving to a country other than the UK after graduation (74%, compared to 48% of those who studied in their country of nationality).

Figure 8: Other countries considered

The other countries most commonly considered as an alternative destination to the UK were the USA (37%), Canada (28%) and Australia (23%), as shown in Figure 8. This is in keeping with the factors that attracted people to the UK, as these are English-speaking countries with cultural similarities. They were also considered by a higher than average proportion of HPI visa holders who had studied in a country other than their nationality (at 44%, 33%, and 27% respectively).

“My first choice would have been the US or Canada…Both my Bachelors and masters degrees were from the US, so I felt US based companies would be more inclined to make an offer compared to a UK firm.”

HPI visa holder, Pakistan, masters, no dependants

Other countries mentioned, though each considered by less than a fifth of HPI visa holders, were European countries such as Germany (16%), the Netherlands (12%), France (8%), Spain (8%), Ireland (6%), and Switzerland (6%). Overall, more than 47 countries were mentioned as possible alternatives considered, through most were only named by one or 2 HPI visa holders.

US nationals who had considered other countries most commonly considered Spain (20%), Ireland (18%) and Canada (16%). Chinese nationals were more likely to have considered moving to Canada (38%), Australia (34%), and Japan (15%). Indian nationals tended to follow the overall trend, except they were more likely to consider the United Arab Emirates as a destination (10% compared to 3% average).

The appeal of living in the UK (58%), the ease of getting a HPI visa in the UK (46%), and the language (40%) were top drivers for choosing the UK over other countries. Another frequently mentioned factor was existing connections to the UK (family, friends, or a partner; cited by 27%). As a spontaneous response under the ‘other’ category, as well as in the qualitative interviews, several respondents also mentioned stringent gun control laws as a factor. Only 13% of those who considered other countries said they chose the UK because they could not obtain a visa for a different country.

Figure 9: Reasons for choosing the UK over other countries

4.6 Importance of the HPI visa in the decision-making process

The HPI visa itself was one of the main drivers for coming to the UK, and most HPI visa holders would not otherwise have moved to the UK. About a third (32%) would have stayed or returned to their home country after their studies, a further 28% would have applied for a visa in another country, and a tenth (10%) would have moved to a country not requiring a visa.

About a quarter (27%) of HPI visa holders said they would have tried to come to the UK using a different visa route if the HPI visa did not exist. This increased to almost half of PhD holders (47%), and 44% of graduates from Canadian universities.

Figure 10: What HPI visa holders would have done if the HPI visa was not available

By nationality, US nationals were more likely to say they would have stayed in their home country (53%). Chinese and Indian nationals were more likely to say they would have applied for a visa to a different country (44% and 39% respectively). Indian nationals were also more likely to say they would have moved somewhere which did not require a visa (18%).

The qualitative interviews confirmed the central role that the HPI visa played in people’s decisions to come to the UK. In particular, not needing to have a job offer before moving to the UK was a critical factor, as that is a requirement of almost all other working visas, in the UK or elsewhere.

“That was immediately the top choice because this one doesn’t require you to have a job offer, which I think is the biggest obstacle to other countries, even Canada you still need a job offer.”

HPI visa holder, Malaysia, Undergraduate, no dependants

While a few respondents mentioned the Skilled Worker visa as an alternative they may have used, had the HPI visa not existed, most highlighted that the HPI visa itself was what first made them consider moving to the UK.

“[HPI had] a huge impact… I don’t think I would really consider London as a whole if the visa wasn’t there… that made it possible for me to actually work and live here.”

HPI visa holder, USA, Undergraduate, no dependants

“The visa was the clincher … Having a UK address, a UK number, and being able to attend interviews in person was definitely helpful.”

HPI visa holder, Pakistan, masters, no dependants

5. HPI visa application process

This chapter explores HPI visa holders’ experience of applying for and receiving their HPI visa, focusing on the different elements and aspects of the application process in turn.

5.1 Ease of the HPI application process

Over four-fifths (85%) of HPI visa holders had a positive experience applying for the visa, with over half describing it as ‘very positive’ (55%). Less than one in 10 (8%) found it to be a negative experience.

Figure 11: Overall experience of applying for and getting the UK HPI visa

In the qualitative research, several HPI visa holders mentioned how ‘simple’ and ‘straightforward’ the application was, and in some cases compared it favourably to obtaining visas for other countries such as Germany, the US and Singapore:

“[in Germany] it is pretty complex… a lot of hoops you have to go through.”

HPI Visa Holder, Pakistan, masters, has dependants

“I have applied for a lot of visas, including my Student Visa for the US, and it was significantly more complicated to get that [US Visa]. The instructions were easy, I knew exactly what I was doing.”

HPI Visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

HPI visa holders also mentioned that the application was easier and faster than that for other UK visas, such as the Student, Skilled Worker, and Global Talent visas.

Some HPI visa holders, however, reported issues with the application process, such as unclear information on timings (when they would hear whether their application had been successful, and therefore their visa start date), or specific issues related to their application, such as the cost of needing to have their degree certificate translated into English, or the requirement for degree certificates to include dates.

5.2 Individual elements of the HPI application process

The majority of HPI visa holders found all elements of the application process easy, though US nationals were generally more likely to find individual elements difficult.

Around 4 in 5 (78%) HPI visa holders found the application process itself easy, with less than a tenth (9%) finding it difficult. US nationals were more likely than average to find the application process difficult (18%). On the other hand, those who had studied at US universities (81%) were more likely to find it easy. This may reflect prior experience of applying for study visas.

Figure 12: Experience of different aspects of the HPI visa application process, part 1

Graduate visa route users were not asked whether their overall perception of the visa process was positive or negative, but they were asked how easy or difficult they found the application process, allowing a comparison with the HPI visa in this aspect. A higher proportion of HPI visa holders found the application process easy (78%) compared to the graduate route (67%). The difference was made up of more graduate route holders finding the process neither easy nor difficult (24% compared to 13% of HPI visa holders), as the same proportion of visa holders for both routes found the application process difficult (9% each).

Similarly, around 4 in 5 (79%) HPI visa holders found locating the necessary information or documents for their application easy, with around one in 10 (11%) having found it difficult. Those over the age of 30 were more likely to find this easy (83%) than average. However, those aged 29 and under and US nationals were more likely to find it difficult (14% and 17% respectively).

This was reflected in the qualitative interviews, where people were broadly positive about the visa application process. Most agreed that it was easy to navigate independently, again in contrast with other visas where they had needed more support. However, some suggested that a possible improvement would be providing a more detailed checklist of documents needed, and the formats in which they were required, at the start of the application process.

As seen in Figure 13, a similar proportion of HPI visa holders found navigating and completing the online application forms easy. Around 4 in 5 found it easy (81%) and 7% found it difficult. Those earning over £40,000 (86%), and those over the age of 40 (94%) were more likely to find navigating and completing the online application forms easy.

Figure 13: Experience of different aspects of the HPI visa application process, part 2

In the qualitative interviews, most HPI visa holders reported finding navigating and completing the online application forms straightforward. Several described it as ‘quick’ and ‘easy’. However, a few people that they felt they needed extra information, which led them to seeking additional advice from online fora.

“There wasn’t much guidance out there because people hadn’t really done it [before].”

HPI Visa holder, USA, Undergraduate, no dependants

Despite this, only one person explicitly said that the website itself was difficult to navigate and repetitive.

“The UK website, where all the information is, was incredibly frustrating…you just go round and round and round.”

HPI Visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

Just under three-quarters (72%) of HPI visa holders found the process of validating qualifications through Ecctis easy and 16% found it difficult. HPI visa holders who had studied at US universities (76%) and those with dependants (82%) were more likely find it easy than average. Although most HPI visa holders found the process of validating their qualification through Ecctis easy, a few mentioned ‘minor issues’ relating to a lack of clarity around the status of their application on the portal.

“The Ecctis process was slightly challenging because the time period was so vague, and I think there weren’t too many opportunities within the Ecctis portal to enquire about the status of my certification application.”

HPI Visa holder, Pakistan, masters, no dependants

Around two-thirds (65%) of HPI visa holders found the digital elements of the HPI application process to be positive, with just one in twenty (5%) reporting a negative experience. However, around one in 8 (12%) did not know whether to describe their experience as positive or negative. US national HPI visa holders (56%), those looking for work (56%), and those planning on leaving the UK (57%) were less likely to report a positive experience of the digital elements of the application process.

Figure 14: Experience with the digital elements of the HPI visa application process

5.3 Follow-up elements of the application process

Just under three-quarters (72%) of HPI visa holders said the experience of getting updates and communication from the Home Office was positive. Those with a postgraduate degree (76%), men (76%), and STEM graduates (78%) were more likely to be positive about communication from the Home Office than average. US nationals (58%), women (69%), those with an undergraduate degree (66%), and non-STEM graduates (69%) were less likely to report a positive experience with communication from the Home Office.

Figure 15: Experience with status updates during the HPI visa application process

Around one in 8 (12%) HPI visa holders described their experience of receiving updates and communication from the Home Office as negative. Generally, HPI visa holders did not tend to mention issues in getting updates and communicating with the Home Office in the qualitative interviews. However, some mentioned that contacting the Home Office by phone was difficult, and that it would have been beneficial to have a dedicated customer service responding to queries about their visa application.

“If there was someone that you could talk to about the visa, [that] would be great. It was difficult just getting any answers from anyone about it. […] Being able to speak to someone more official who knows more about it could actually help clear out any answers or can maybe point out other resources in terms of, like, finding a role.”

HPI Visa holder, USA, Undergraduate, no dependants

“There were no options for speaking with someone at the Home Office or immigration about it. There were no emails, and to call [the Home Office] you had to pay to speak with someone.”

HPI Visa holder, USA, Undergraduate, no dependants

As mentioned previously, HPI visa holders also said it would have been beneficial to have clearer information on the timings of the visa process, which accounted for the possible extra time involved in obtaining or translating the documents required.

“The website says the application takes […] a few weeks, however, that’s just the application, it doesn’t include the time for degree verification – it took 2 more weeks than I expected. Maybe they should allow applicants to apply for the visa and the certificate at the same time.”

HPI Visa holder, China, masters, no dependants

6. Current activities of HPI visa holders

This chapter explores the current activities of HPI visa holders in the UK. This includes their original plans when coming to the UK, employment status, income levels, and the type of employment in which they are engaged. The chapter also covers any changes to planned activity whilst on their visa, HPI visa holders’ experiences of finding a job in the UK, and how they are integrating into UK life.

6.1 Original plans when coming to the UK

Nearly all HPI visa holders planned to work once they got to the UK (96%), and the majority were in work at time of the survey (78%, see Figure 16). The fact the majority were employed demonstrated a high drive for employment in the UK, as over two-thirds did not have jobs arranged prior to arrival (69%). In qualitative interviews, respondents highlighted the benefits of the HPI visa and the fact they could come to the UK without a job offer.

“The flexibility of coming to the UK without a job offer in hand has been amazing.”

HPI visa holder, Pakistan, masters, no dependants

Indian HPI visa holders were more likely to have a job offer when deciding to come to the UK (43% compared to 25% overall) and to have accepted that job offer (37% compared to 21%).

HPI visa holders who had job offers when deciding to come to the UK were predominantly still working for the same employer (78%) at the time of the survey. Those who earned over £40,000 were more likely to be working for the same employer (87% compared to 78% overall).

Three fifths (58%) of HPI visa holders planned to be employed for one to 2 years while on the HPI visa. A further 17% expected to work for less than one year, and 3% expected to work for over 2 years under their HPI visa. Over a fifth (22%) did not know how long they would be employed during their HPI visa. HPI visa holders who were planning to stay in the UK after the end of their HPI visa were more likely to plan to work for between one and 2 years (64% compared to 58%). US nationals were most likely to plan to work for between one and 2 years (75%). This may reflect how quickly HPI visa holders had found work, and how long they had remaining on their visa.

In terms of employment type, half of HPI visa holders intended to work in a professional occupation (56%), and a quarter intended to work in an associate professional occupation (24%). This differs slightly to the employment profile at the time of the survey (discussed below).

6.2 Current employment status and occupations

Employment status

Reflecting their original plans, HPI visa holders were largely in work. More than three-quarters (78%) of all HPI visa holders were in work at the time of the survey. Two-thirds were employed on a full-time basis (64%), 5% on a part time basis, and nearly one in 10 were self-employed (9%). Further breakdown of this is shown in Figure 16.

Figure 16: Employment status amongst HPI visa holders

In addition, a further 17% were looking for work at the time of the survey, leaving only 4% who were studying, volunteering, being a tourist or otherwise not in work.

Employment status differed by nationality, with HPI visa holders who were US nationals more likely to be in work than average (86%, compared to 78% overall). US national HPI visa holders were also more likely to be in part-time employment (8% compared to 5% overall). Chinese HPI visa holders were least likely to be in work, with over a third (35%) not in work compared to a fifth (21%) of the overall population, although they were more likely to be self-employed (15% compared to 9%). Whilst Chinese HPI visa holders were least likely to be in work, they were also the most likely not to have looked for a job prior to arriving to the UK (15% compared to 9% overall).

There were also differences based on level of study. HPI visa holders who qualified for the visa on the basis of an undergraduate degree were more likely to be in work (83%), and more likely to be in part-time employment (7%). People with masters degrees were least likely to be in part-time employment (3%). This may also be linked to the fact that younger HPI visa holders (aged 18 to 29 years old), who tended to have lower levels of qualification^{[footnote 7]}), were more likely to be employed full-time (68%). Older HPI visa holders (40 and over) were more likely to be self-employed (19%).

The profile of the current employment status of HPI visa holders was broadly similar to those using the Graduate route. Three quarters of Graduate route users were also in work (76%), and a quarter were not currently in work (24%). However, a larger proportion of Graduate route users were looking for work (21%) than HPI visa holders (17%).

Types of occupations and sectors

HPI visa holders worked in a wide range of sectors. The top 3 sectors were information and communication (17%), financial and insurance activities (13%) and education (13%). Indian HPI visa holders were more likely to be employed in financial and insurance activities (22%), whilst those from the USA were more likely to be employed in arts or other activities (20% compared to 9% overall).

Figure 17: Sector of work for HPI visa holders currently in employment

Nearly half of HPI visa holders were employed in professional occupations (49%), as shown in Figure 18. A further fifth were employed in associate professional occupations (21%), followed by about a tenth in managerial or senior official roles (9%). This suggests that HPI visa holders tend to be working in highly skilled occupations, reflecting their qualification profile.

Figure 18: Occupations of HPI visa holders currently in employment

HPI visa holders with an undergraduate degree were more likely to be working in associate professional roles (30%), and HPI visa holders who had postgraduate qualifications (masters and PhDs) were more likely to be employed in professional occupations (56%). Nearly 9 in 10 of those with doctorates were employed in professional occupations (89%).

Age also had an impact on occupational distribution. HPI visa holders who were 40 years and over were more likely to be managers, directors, and senior officials (20%), and 19% were self-employed (compared to 9% overall).

By nationality, Indian nationals were more likely to be employed as managers, directors, and senior officials (16%), whilst HPI visa holders from the USA were more likely to be employed in sales (5% compared to 3% on average) and elementary occupations (5% compared to 2%).

HPI visa holders’ occupations were markedly different to those of Graduate route users. A larger proportion of working HPI visa holders were in occupations classified as Managers, Directors and Senior Officials (9%) than Graduate route users (5%), and the same was true for Professional Occupations (49% compared to 30% of Graduate route users). Conversely, a larger proportion of working Graduate route users had occupations classified as Caring, leisure and other service occupations (8%) and Sales and customer service occupations (6%) compared to HPI visa holders (3% for each).

6.3 Income and salary

As above discussed, HPI visa holders were generally in work, and as a group they command relatively high salaries compared to the wider UK population. Nearly half of HPI visa holders earned over £40,000 (46%), an income level which would make them eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa^{[footnote 8]} in the future. A third were earning over £50,000 (27%) and one in 8 earned over £75,000 (12%). Further breakdown of income can be seen in Figure 19.

Figure 19: Income of employed HPI visa holders before tax and other deductions

Some characteristics affected income levels, such as age, gender and nationality. HPI visa holders who were 30 and over were more likely to be earning between £40,000 and £50,000 (25% compared to 19% overall) and men were more likely earn over £50,000 (33% compared to 22% of women). In terms of nationality, Indian nationals were the highest earners. Over two-thirds earned over £40,000 (62%), whilst two-fifths earned over £50,000 (41% compared to 27% overall).

STEM graduate HPI visa holders were more likely to earn higher salaries. A third earned over £50,000 (33%), and one in 10 earned £75,001 to £100,000 (11%).

There is also a correlation between HPI visa holders’ qualification level and salary. Income increased with the higher qualifications, as seen in Figure 20.

Figure 20: HPI main visa holders’ annual income, by level of study

HPI visa holders with a doctorate were more likely to earn over £40,000 (66%). On the other hand, HPI visa holders with an undergraduate degree were more likely to earn £25,001 to £30,000 (15% compared to 10% overall).

HPI visa holders as a group tended to earn higher salaries than Graduate route users. Nearly half (46%) of HPI visa holders earned over £40,000 per year, compared to 11% of Graduate route users.

6.4 Current activity in comparison with original plans

HPI visa holders were predominantly doing what they had planned to at the time of their visa application (71%), with only a quarter reporting that their current occupation or situation was not what they had hoped or planned (24%) to be doing.

HPI visa holders were more likely to be doing what they had planned at the time of their visa application (71%) than Graduate route users (57%).

HPI visa holders who earned over £50,000 were more likely to feel positively about their situation and report that it was what they had planned at the time of application (92%). Those still looking for work were more likely to report they were not doing what they had planned (51%).

HPI visa holders who were not doing what they had originally planned primarily attributed it to employment challenges (94%), citing difficulties finding the right kind of job, a job at their desired salary level, or any job at all. Just under a tenth said it was because of personal issues (7%), such as health or family issues.

Figure 21: Reasons why HPI visa holders’ plans changed

As seen in Figure 21, HPI visa holders who were not doing what they originally planned to do reported issues with finding employment (47%), only finding employment with lower pay than expected (34%), working at a lower level of skill (33%), and struggling to find employment in their sector (33%). In terms of personal reasons, HPI visa holders mentioned not living in the area they wanted and family commitments as the reasons why their plans had changed (7% and 6%).

This was echoed in qualitative interviews, where some HPI visa holders highlighted struggles with finding suitable employment and dealing with lower salaries in the UK compared to other countries such as the USA, Canada, Singapore, or Hong Kong. The cost of living in the UK was another factor which resulted in changes to plans, with some HPI visa holders reporting they had less disposable income than anticipated.

“Pay is way below what I got in Canada. At first, I was like, well, this is a starting point and I’m moving to a new country and maybe this is a sacrifice I have to make. But it sucks to have to put yourself in that situation, especially when you were being paid more before.”

HPI visa holder, Canada, Undergraduate, no dependants

Generally, those who reported they were not doing what they had planned and earned below £40,000 were more dissatisfied with their job. They were more likely to report their work paid less than expected (55%), that their work was at a lower level of skill than expected (59%), and to work in a sector which was not the one they had wanted (47%).

6.5 Experience of finding employment in the UK

Whilst some HPI visa holders found it simple to find jobs once in the UK, or had arranged them prior to arrival, there was strong sentiment in the qualitative interviews that the experience of finding employment was difficult. Issues raised included:

• challenges finding work
• waning interest from companies when HPI visa holders had less than the full 2 years on their visa
• a lack of knowledge about the HPI visa from companies and recruiters

Challenges finding work

One key difficulty raised, despite 4 in 5 (78%) HPI visa holders being in work, was difficulty finding a job in the first place. Respondents in qualitative interviews highlighted the difficulty of progressing from the application or interview stage to being offered a job. They reported industry shortages, barriers relating to their visa (explored below), and wider challenges in obtaining employment in highly competitive industries as reasons.

“It’s very easy to apply and get interviewed for 1st and 2nd rounds …but … very difficult to get to the final round.”

HPI visa holder, China, masters, no dependants

In qualitative interviews, some HPI visa holders also reported frustration with their job search.

“What’s the point of us like being here, with the shortages in the industries or in the companies here. When we are not even being able to get hired in the first place.”

HPI visa holder, Indonesia, masters, no dependants

Short length of visa

As well as more general difficulties finding a job, HPI visa holders highlighted an issue with the two-year time limit on their visa. They felt that it negatively impacted their opportunities to get a job, particularly for those who struggled to get employment in the first few months, and then had a shorter “buffer” time of employment before needing visa sponsorship.

“Employers don’t want to even speak to you because they’re like, well, you only have a year left here. Like they don’t really want to sponsor you. They’d rather like not waste the money.”

HPI visa holder, Indonesia, masters, no dependants

Others felt that employers were concerned about needing to sponsor someone in the future and that the 2 years that the visa allowed them to work without needing sponsorship was not enough for them to demonstrate their worth. HPI visa holders felt that their need for future sponsorship acted as a barrier to them being offered jobs.

“Some companies when you apply, they do ask like they just don’t ask like do you have the right to work in the UK they ask like will you require a sponsorship in the future.”

HPI visa holder, Singapore, Undergraduate, no dependants

“Difficult … I did almost 30 pre-screening interviews and the reason for not proceeding was always my visa status and the need to offer sponsorship after 2 years.”

HPI visa holder, Afghanistan, masters, has dependants

A couple of HPI visa holders suggested that it would be useful if the HPI visa could be extended for those who did manage to secure employment, as some Canadian visas (reportedly) can be. They felt this might make it easier to get a job in the first place, and that employers might be more likely to sponsor a follow-up visa if they had worked for the company for a longer period.

Low awareness of the HPI visa

Another issue HPI visa holders highlighted was that neither companies nor recruiters were generally aware of the HPI visa route. Respondents noted concerns that low awareness of the route made it harder for them to find a job. They were worried that recruiters may reject them outright, not knowing the details of the visa route, which may put them at a disadvantage.

“Some recruiters or HR people, the people who are responsible for employing us, they’d be like what’s the name of the visa. Does it allow you to work? So again, the people who are responsible for employing us are not really aware or know the types of visas and what they bring, what we can do … It was quite a frustrating process.”

HPI visa holder, Zimbabwe, masters, has dependants

6.5 Integrating into UK life

In general, HPI visa holders were mostly happy in the UK and integrating into UK life. There were some aspects which they felt made integration easier:

• familiarity with UK culture
• having a good level of English
• having a more mobile background
• relatively liberal and / or accepting views in UK society

Some HPI visa holders who came from similar cultures felt it was easier to assimilate into UK culture.

“Being from a Commonwealth country, I do have an idea of the cultural landscape of the country, and that definitely helped, I think.”

HPI visa holder, Pakistan, masters, no dependants

Similarly, those who spoke English as a first language, or those who had a high level of fluency in English, reported fewer hurdles when integrating into the UK. The lack of language barrier was an enabler for building ties with their local community and progressing at work.

More mobile cohorts, for example those who had already moved abroad for their studies, were more used to adapting to new environments and cultures, and mentioned having little to no trouble adapting and integrating. In qualitative interviews, respondents highlighted the benefits of either having moved abroad during childhood or for university or work.

“[I’m used to adjusting to new countries] because I’ve been moving from when I was 16. So, I’m kind of used to like adapting to like new countries’ environments.”

HPI visa holder, Singapore, Undergraduate, no dependants

In addition to this, HPI visa holders who were part of the LBGTQ+ community reported feeling more accepted in the UK compared to other countries. Several respondents mentioned freedom of religious expression in the UK.

7. Dependants’ profile and activities

This chapter explores the profile of HPI visa holders with dependants, as well as the profile and activities of the dependants themselves. It covers dependants’ motivations for and intentions when coming to the UK, as well as their current activities and experiences of integration into the UK.

7.1 Profile of HPI visa holders with dependants

The vast majority (81%) of HPI visa holders did not have any dependants associated with their visa. As shown in Figure 22, only one-seventh (14%) currently had their partner and/or children as dependants on their HPI visa. A further 5% reported they did not currently have dependants on their visa but intended to in future.

Figure 22: Whether any dependants were associated with the visa

Older HPI visa holders were more likely to have dependants associated with their visa, especially those aged over 40 (51% of those aged over 40 compared to 7% of those aged 18 to 29). Similarly, HPI visa holders with postgraduate-level qualifications were more likely to have dependants (19%, rising to 27% of those with a doctorate, compared with 6% of those with an undergraduate degree). Male HPI visa holders were also more likely than female HPI visa holders to have dependants associated with their visa (19% compared to 10% of female HPI visa holders). However, older HPI visa holders were more likely to be male and have postgraduate-level qualifications, which may explain some of these differences.

A larger proportion (14%) of HPI visa holders had dependants than Graduate route users (2%), while a similar proportion intended to have dependants in future (5% for HPI visa holders compared to 4% for Graduate route users).

7.2 Profile of dependants

Almost all (96%) HPI visa holders with dependants had their partner as a dependant, and 38% had dependent children. As shown in Figure 23, HPI visa holders most commonly only had their partner as a dependant (61%), although around one third had both their partner and children as dependants (35%).

Figure 23: Types of dependants associated with the HPI visa

There was some indicative evidence of differences by subgroup; however, these findings should be interpreted with caution given relatively small base sizes. HPI visa holders aged over 40 (base: 30) were more likely than average to have both a partner and their children as dependants on their HPI visa (72% compared to 35% on average). Similarly, HPI visa holders with a degree in a STEM subject (base: 45) were more likely to only have their partner as a dependant (74%), compared with those with a non-STEM degree (52%).

Of HPI visa holders with dependent children, nearly 9 in 10 (88%) had one or 2 children. As shown in Figure 24, there were equal proportions of HPI visa holders with one or 2 dependent children (44% for both) and only small proportions with 3 or 4 children (8% and 5% respectively).

A similar proportion of visa holders with dependants on their visa had dependent partners for both HPI visa holders (96%) and Graduate route users (93%), although a larger proportion of Graduate route users had children as dependants on their visa (50%) than HPI visa holders (38%).

Figure 24: Number of dependent children associated with the visa

In the qualitative interviews, dependants were asked about their education and qualifications. As with main applicants, most of the dependants had postgraduate-level qualifications degrees – most commonly at masters level, such as MBAs or MSc degrees. Some also held more than one masters’ level qualification. Their degrees were a mix of STEM and non-STEM subjects, with non-STEM subjects were mostly subjects such as economics, finance, and business. A small number were qualified medical doctors who had already trained in a speciality area of medicine, such as psychiatry.

7.3 Dependants’ motivations and influence on decision making to come to the UK

The ability to bring dependants on the HPI visa was a critical factor for both HPI visa holders and dependants. As shown in Figure 25, 69% of HPI visa holders would not have come to the UK if the HPI visa route did not allow dependants, and would either have sought a visa in a different country (35%), or remained in their home country or current country of residence (34%). A further 21% said they would have sought a UK visa route that allowed dependants instead. Only 5% would have still used the HPI visa route.

Figure 25: What visa holders would have done if dependants were not allowed

The only subgroup difference was that HPI visa holders who held non-STEM degrees were more likely to report that they would not have come to the UK if the route did not allow dependants (79% compared to 56% STEM). However, please note that the sample size for STEM degree holders is 45 and therefore this should be taken as indicative only.

These findings were echoed by both HPI visa holders with dependants and dependants themselves in the qualitative interviews. Reasons cited centred around the importance of staying together as a couple or family.

“If that option wasn’t available, I wouldn’t have applied…Right now money doesn’t matter that much and I just want to make sure my kids are ok.”

HPI visa Holder, Zimbabwe, masters, has dependants

“Being able to come together was pretty important, because we love each other.”

Dependant, USA

The decision to come to the UK was usually made jointly by HPI main visa holders and their partners, with both parties weighing up the decision. Both dependants and HPI main visa holders described the decision as mutual, with both parties in agreement.

“We [both] decided, yeah, this is what we want to do.”

Dependant, Iran

For example, one HPI visa holder and dependant pair chose the UK to grow a start-up they owned jointly. A few other dependants also reported that they had discussed moving abroad with their partners for several years, and so the decision to pursue the HPI visa felt like a natural culmination of that.

“It was something we’ve talked about in the past, that we wanted to move to another country [together].”

Dependant, Ghana

Dependants’ motivations for coming to the UK largely mirrored those of HPI main visa holders. Similarly to HPI main visa holders, dependants saw the HPI visa as easier, cheaper and quicker to obtain than other UK and international visas, making it the main driver behind choosing the UK for many dependants. Another frequently cited reason was work opportunities and/or career progression in the UK. Dependants valued the flexibility to change jobs, start their own business or study. Some also had specific career goals they wanted to pursue in the UK.

“For me in terms of my career, in comparison to the US it was easy for me to pursue the specialty I wanted to do [in the NHS].”

Dependant, Ghana

However, dependants were also more likely to reference cultural factors than HPI main visa holders. For example, a few cited how work-life balance was more relaxed in the UK. Some also saw the UK education system as better or, in some cases, more familiar for those whose children went to UK-style schools overseas. Some dependants cited other factors including gun control laws, freedom of religious expression, the English language, and the legality and wide social acceptance of same-sex relationships.

“The community we have here is huge and this is something we lacked in the other countries we have lived”.

Dependant, USA

“One I think is the very rich history that this place offers, and I think it should not go without noting that it is in huge part thanks to the very special relationship that the US and the UK have to have to have made this kind of path possible.”

Dependant, USA

7.4 Current activities of dependent partners

Partners who were dependants on the HPI visa route were generally economically active. Two thirds of all dependent partners were in work (67%), with 54% being in full-time employment, 9% in part-time employment, and 4% self-employed.

A minority of dependent partners were not in work (30%), with 16% looking for work, 7% unemployed but not looking for work, and 6% currently studying for or gaining additional qualifications.

Figure 26: Employment status of dependent partners of HPI visa holders

The current activities of dependants also varied based on other factors such as having children and the income of the HPI main visa holder. HPI visa holders who earned up to £40,000 annually were more likely to have dependants who worked part-time (17%) than those who earned over £40,000 annually (2%). Similarly, HPI visa holders who had both partner and child dependants were more likely to have dependent partners who were unemployed and not looking for work (14%) than those who only had dependent partners (3%).

During the qualitative interviewing, one dependent partner noted that they found it difficult to find employment initially as they felt that employers were seeking to hire people with UK experience, while their experience was from their time working in China.

Dependent partners worked in a wide variety of jobs. The most common occupational group was Professional Occupations (40%), followed by 14% working in Associate Professional and Technical Occupations, and 12% in Caring, Leisure and Other Service Occupations.

Figure 27: Dependent partner occupations

Specific job roles were too varied to allow for many patterns to emerge, especially given the relatively low base size of HPI visa holders with an employed dependent partner (70).

However, around one in 12 dependent partners were Programmers and Software development professionals (8%). Just over one in twenty HPI visa holders had dependent partners who worked as Care workers and home carers (6%).

Dependants in the qualitative interviews were working in banking, care work, marketing, project management, and technology, and generally signalled that they wanted to continue in their current careers. A couple of dependent partners intended to change their employment following their move to the UK, with one stating that they would look to start a business when they are more settled.

7.5 Current earnings of employed dependent partners

A small majority of dependent partners who were employed earned up to £40,000 per year. Out of the HPI visa holders with employed partners, 51% of partners earned up to £40,000, with 37% earning more than that per year (12% preferred not to say).

One in 10 of employed dependent partners earned less than £12,500 per year (10%), while 41% earned between £12,500 and £40,000 per year, 18% earned between £40,000 and £50,000 per year, 16% earned between £50,001 and £75,000 per year, while 4% earned over £100,000 per year.

The small base size of HPI visa holders with employed dependent partners means that statistically significant differences between distinct groups and characteristics are limited. Despite this, 30% of female HPI visa holders with employed dependent partners had partners earning over £50,000 per year, a higher proportion than among men’s employed dependent partners (10%).

Figure 28: Earnings of dependent partners of HPI visa holders (per year)

8. Plans for the Future

This chapter covers HPI visa holders’ plans for the future, both in the mid and longer term, visa options they are considering, as well as any barriers they face.

8.1 How long HPI visa holders plan to stay in the UK

Most (66%) HPI visa holders were planning to stay in the UK for longer than the duration of their current visa, and one in 7 (15%) were planning to stay for the duration of their visa. Only 6% were planning to stay for less time than the duration of their current visa. The remaining 12% were unsure how long they planned to stay in the UK.

Figure 29: Intended length of stay in the UK for HPI visa holders

The intended length of stay in the UK for HPI visa holders varied by characteristic, including educational background and employment status. HPI visa holders who held an undergraduate degree were more likely (71%) to be planning to stay in the UK for longer than their visa compared to postgraduate degree holders (63%). There were also links between employment status and plans to stay in the UK; employed HPI visa holders were more likely to be planning to remain in the UK longer than the duration of their current visa (71%) than those not in work (48%).

Intended length of stay in the UK was also linked to family characteristics. HPI visa holders with dependent children were more likely to be planning to remain in the UK for longer than the duration of their visa (90%) than those with only dependent partners (61%) and those without any dependants (65%). Conversely, HPI visa holders who only had dependent partners (and no children) were more likely to be planning to leave after the end of their current visa (26%) than those with children (4%), or those with both dependent partners and children (4%).

Findings from the qualitative interviews mirrored those from the quantitative survey, demonstrating a mix of long-term plans for HPI visa holders, covering those who want to stay in the UK beyond the duration of their visa and those who plan to leave the UK at the end of their visa.

Most dependants wanted to stay in the UK on a long-term basis and intended to transfer to other visas when their partners’ HPI visa expired as well. This was especially emphasised by dependants with children.

“It was really important [as a family] to be able to establish roots in a place where we felt we could thrive over a very long time.”

Dependant, USA

“It was something we’ve talked about in the past, that we wanted to move to another country… when the visa expires, we’ll just continue with sponsorship afterwards.”

Dependant, Ghana

However, a small few were less certain about whether they would stay in the UK on a long-term basis, due to family commitments in their home countries.

“Our parents are getting older, and they don’t speak any English. So, it is kind of hard for us to be [away from] our family in China.”

Dependant, China

There was some variation in the planned duration of stay in the UK between HPI visa holders and Graduate route users. Two thirds of HPI visa holders planned to stay longer than the duration of their visa (66%), a larger proportion than Graduate route users (51%). There was more uncertainty among Graduate route users than HPI visa holders, with 17% being unsure how long they intended to stay in the UK, compared to 12% of HPI visa holders.

8.2 Important factors when considering remaining in the UK

Factors HPI visa holders considered when deciding whether to remain in the UK varied. HPI visa holders who planned to stay longer than the duration of their visa most commonly cited factors relating to work and the HPI visa holder’s personal life. Three quarters (75%) of those who planned to stay longer than the duration of their visa felt that opportunities for work were important considerations.

When grouped, factors relating to personal life were important for 80% of HPI visa holders, with having built a life in the UK (64%) and having personal networks in the UK (57%) being the second and third most frequently cited individual factors. Figure 30 shows the full list of factors felt to be important by HPI visa holders who planned to stay longer than the duration of their visa.

A wide range of other factors remained important in the decision-making process for HPI visa holders who were considering staying in the UK beyond the duration of their visa. Over half of HPI visa holders noted that the fact that their quality of life was better in the UK (53%) was an important factor. Familiarity with the English language (51%) and British culture (36%) were also important to a substantial proportion of HPI visa holders.

Individually, access to healthcare (36%), public services (25%), and to education (20%), were less commonly noted as important factors for HPI visa holders. Nevertheless, when grouped as access to public services, nearly half of all HPI visa holders who were considering staying in the UK longer than the duration of their visa noted them as an important factor in their decision (46%).

Figure 30: Important factors when considering whether to remain in the UK

There were numerous subgroup differences relating to the factors that were important to HPI visa holders in deciding to stay longer than the duration of their visas. Personal life factors were particularly important for HPI visa holders from the USA (95%), female HPI visa holders (87% compared to 71% for males), undergraduate degree holders (88%), and younger HPI visa holders (85% of those aged 18-29 compared to 71% of those aged 30 or over). Some of these groups have strong crossovers with each other; for example, 80% of US HPI visa holders are aged 18-29.

The reasons HPI visa holders cited when considering staying beyond the length of their current visa varied depending on dependant status. Those without dependants were more likely to note personal life factors (81%) than those with dependants (71%), while the converse was true for familiarity of language (considered by 70% of those with dependants compared to 58% without) and access to public services (68% and 42% respectively), and access to education more specifically (52% and 14% respectively).

Opportunities for work was particularly prominent as a factor in decision-making about whether to stay in the UK beyond the duration of their visa for HPI visa holders from countries other than the US, China and India. Around two-thirds of US (67%), Chinese (66%), and Indian (70%) HPI visa holders considered opportunities for work in the UK as an important factor, compared to 85% of those from other countries. Male HPI visa holders were more likely to cite opportunities for dependants to work (24%) as an important factor than female HPI visa holders (13%).

There were other differences by nationality in terms of the influential factors when considering remaining in the UK. For example, US nationals were particularly likely to take into consideration access to healthcare (54%) and other public services (38%), compared to HPI visa holders overall (36% and 25% respectively).

Qualitative interviews also revealed a mixture of important factors in this decision. One key reason some HPI visa holders wanted to remain in the UK was that they felt that they had established a good foundation and did not want to disrupt their or their children’s lives, careers, and education. One HPI visa holder planned to stay in the UK for a period of around 5 years after their visa ended to enable their child to finish their schooling, before eventually leaving the UK. Several HPI visa holders noted that enjoying their job was a key reason to stay in the UK, and a few felt that the UK’s strengths in specific industries (for example, FinTech, finance, or international aid) made it an attractive place to live.

Social factors were also a motivator behind planning to remain in the UK beyond the duration of their visa. Social networks, community, and friendships were other commonly mentioned reasons why HPI visa holders and their dependants did not want to leave the UK at the end of their visas.

Several HPI visa holders and their dependants reported enjoying living in the UK and enjoying a high quality of life in the UK. A few HPI visa holders felt that the opportunities provided by living in London, specifically, were a driver to stay in the UK; it was described as a “fabulous city” by one HPI visa holder and noted for its diversity and job opportunities by a few others.

I’m getting used to the life here. I don’t want to move to another city, another country …I’m feeling quite comfortable. I like London, it’s a great place to live.”

HPI visa holder, China, masters, has dependants

Other reasons mentioned included language-related reasons, the UK being seen as socially permissive and accepting of differences (for example, relating to LGBTQ+ rights or freedom of religious expression), the perception of the UK as a good place to start a business, and its proximity to European countries (enabling wider travel).

Where HPI visa holders noted plans to leave the UK at the end of the duration of their visa, this was sometimes part of a plan to continue travelling, exploring, and living in new countries, whereas other HPI visa holders were planning to move back to their home country, as they intended. A couple of HPI visa holders also noted the cost of living in the UK, especially in London, as a reason to leave at the end of their visa.

For a few HPI visa holders, considerations about remaining in the UK centred on their visa period coming to an end and feeling that they would be unable to extend it or transfer to a new visa route.

“I don’t know how long I can have this job… If we can’t get sponsorship, we can’t stay.”

HPI visa holder, China, masters, has dependants

“Unless some crazy opportunity came up that someone wanted to sponsor me. If I was able to get a job and they would sponsor me then no question.”

HPI visa holder, USA, Undergraduate, no dependants

8.3 UK visas considered next

HPI visa holders were most commonly considering transferring to a Skilled Worker visa the end of their current visa period. In total, three-quarters of the HPI visa holders who were considering staying beyond the length of their visa were considering this route (75%), while less than a third (29%) were considering the Global Talent visa route. Other routes were less frequently cited, with the Family visa (9%), Student visa (9%) and Dependant visa (6%) routes each considered by smaller numbers of by HPI visa holders planning to remain in the UK.

Figure 31: Future visa routes being considered by HPI visa holders

There were some differences in terms of the visas considered by wider demographic characteristics. Those who were employed (79%) were more likely than average (75%) to be considering the Skilled Worker route. STEM subject HPI visa holders (84%) were also more likely to be considering the Skilled Worker visa than non-STEM subject HPI visa holders (68%).

A larger proportion of self-employed HPI visa holders who were planning to stay longer than the duration of their visa was considering using the Global Talent visa route (56%) compared to employed HPI visa holders (25%). Similarly, this route was more commonly being considered by doctoral degree holders (55%) than masters degree holders (23%) and undergraduate degree holders (31%).

The student visa route was being considered by a relatively small proportion of HPI visa holders. However, it was more common for undergraduate degree holders (15%) to be considering the student visa route as a means of remaining in the UK compared to postgraduate degree holders (4%), and similarly it was more common for HPI visa holders from the USA to be considering this route (15%) than those from other nationalities (8%).

The qualitative interviews revealed a similar profile of potential next visas being considered by HPI visa holders. They also revealed reasons for these patterns, including that several HPI visa holders were unsure of the exact options open to them, but were happy to use any visa route for which they were eligible. Some were confident in their ability to get Skilled Worker visas, while others were unsure which would be best for their circumstances.

“I’ve been trying to explore other visas available, but I can’t find one that best suits what I’m looking for.”

HPI visa holder, Zimbabwe, masters, has dependants

One HPI visa holder noted that potential changes to legislation around different visa routes and immigration pathways was a fairly big concern. They felt that changes to the immigration and visa system would necessarily mean that they may have to change their plans.

“I hope that when I do apply for the 5-year Skilled Worker route, there aren’t too many policy changes in terms of the Route 2 settlement. If that changes drastically, radically and if that option becomes foreclosed, I will consider perhaps reviewing my plans.”

HPI visa holder, Pakistan, masters, no dependants

8.4 Possible barriers and reasons not to remain in the UK

The main barrier preventing respondents from remaining in the UK was related to visa issues and not being able to find a job with sponsorship. In response to this problem, several participants said that they would return to their home country to rethink their plans and work out their next steps.

“Unless some crazy opportunity came up and someone wanted to sponsor me… If I was able to get a job and they would sponsor me then no question.”

HPI visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

There were a few respondents who noted that, prior to coming to the UK, they thought they would settle and stay for a while. However, since being here have realised that the UK is not somewhere they see themselves living long term.

One respondent said the lack of community had influenced their decision to leave London.

“It’s a bit hard to find your community in a new country when you move on your own.”

HPI visa holder, India, masters, no dependants

Cost was the main barrier preventing several respondents remaining in the UK. The cost of living was mentioned by some respondents, including the cost of rent relative to salary value, as well as the general cost of day-to-day life.

The cost of the visa itself also presented a barrier to remaining in the UK for some respondents. One respondent said that the HPI visa was ‘ridiculously expensive’.

A recent graduate mentioned that they found it ‘really difficult’ to find accommodation to rent at a reasonable price. They felt that being able to come to the UK on the HPI was impractical as a recent graduate because of the cost.

“It’s super-impractical to come over [to the UK] if you don’t have savings or family backup.”

HPI visa holder, USA, masters, no dependants

1. The HPI visa and Graduate routes have different cohorts and demographics, and not all survey questions were directly comparable, so comparisons need to be interpreted with caution. ↩

2. The Skilled Worker Visa has a general salary threshold of £38,700 per year, though thresholds vary for some occupations, as well as for those under 26, those studying for a qualification in a UK regulated profession and those working towards chartered status or full registration in the job for which they are being sponsored. ↩

3. Accurate as of date published. More information about the visa can be found at High Potential Individual (HPI) visa: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) ↩

4. See immigration system statistics data tables - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) ↩

5. The list of eligible institutions is published in Autumn of each year, and the total number of institutions based in these countries is likely to change each year. ↩

6. A smaller number (less than 1%) did not provide sufficient information in the survey to allow their programme of study to be coded ↩

7. HPI visa holders whose highest level of qualification was at undergraduate level were more likely to be 18 to 29 (57% compared to 38%). ↩

8. The Skilled Worker Visa has a general salary threshold of £38,700 per year to be eligible, though there are different eligibility thresholds for different occupations and levels. ↩