High Potential Individual (HPI) visa
Switch to this visa
You might be able to apply to change (‘switch’) to a High Potential Individual (HPI) visa if you’re already in the UK on a different type of visa.
Your partner or child’s visa will not automatically switch to this visa if you switch yours. They can either apply at the same time as you, or at any time before their current visa expires.
You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.
When to apply
You must apply within 5 years of being awarded a qualification from an eligible university.
If you’re currently in the UK on a Student visa, you must also have either:
- completed the course you were sponsored to study
- studied for a PhD for at least 24 months
Who cannot apply to switch to this visa
You cannot switch to this visa if you’re on a Graduate visa.
You cannot apply to switch to this visa if you’re currently in the UK:
- on a visit visa
- on a short-term student visa
- on a Parent of a Child Student visa
- on a seasonal worker visa
- on a domestic worker in a private household visa
- on immigration bail
- because you were given permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds
You must leave the UK and apply for an HPI visa from abroad if you’re in one of these categories.
Fees
Each person applying will need to pay:
- the visa application fee
- the healthcare surcharge for each year of their stay - check how much you’ll have to pay
You’ll also need to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken. There’s no fee for this.
If you’ve been in the UK for less than 1 year, you’ll also need to prove you have enough money to support yourself.
Proving your identity and providing supporting documents
As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity.
How you do this depends on where you’re from and the type of passport you have.
You’ll either:
- give your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point - this is to get a biometric residence permit
- use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account
You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.
Apply to switch to an HPI visa
You must apply online before your current visa expires.
Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.
Continue your application
You can sign back into your application if you’ve saved it.
Find out how to sign in to your account.
How long it takes to get a decision
You’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks of your application date.
You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:
- your supporting documents need to be verified
- you need to attend an interview
- of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction
After you apply
If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.
You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.