Student Visa in the UK
A student visa in the UK provides the opportunity to study in one of the best education systems in the world. Thanks to this visa, thousands of students each year have the opportunity to pursue higher education in the country's universities and colleges. However, the process of obtaining a student visa can be complex and requires careful planning and meeting a number of requirements.
Types of Student Visas
To study in the UK on various courses, in universities, or other educational institutions, it is necessary to have a student visa. This document is known for its complexity, as there are several types of it. The type of student visa depends on the duration and purpose of the student's stay:
- Student Visitor. Granted for a maximum period of 6 months;
- Extended Student Visitor. Suitable for individuals planning to attend courses for more than a year;
- Prospective Student. Intended for individuals intending to participate in the educational process;
- Adult Student General Tier 4. For students over 16 years old intending to study in higher education institutions;
- Child Student Tier 4. Visa for children intending to receive school education.
The two most common types of student visas are short-term and long-term. Short-term visas (Student Visitor) are usually issued for English language courses and have a validity period of 6 months. If the educational program continues beyond this period, students can apply for a student visa (Extended Student Visitor), which allows them to stay in the country longer.
Requirements for Obtaining a Student Visa
- Permission from the educational institution to teach foreign citizens;
- Confirmation of the prospective student's financial capability. There must be enough funds for both tuition and living expenses;
- Document package. It varies depending on the type of visa and the specific educational institution;
- For Adult Student General Tier 4 visa, it is necessary to demonstrate English proficiency at level B1 or higher (IELTS test).
Required Documents for a Student Visa
- Passport;
- Letter from the educational institution;
- Evidence of funds in the student's or sponsor's bank account;
- Proof of the student's income or the sponsor's income;
- Invitation from the educational institution or courses where the study will take place;
- Confirmation of accommodation during the study period (e.g., rental agreement).
All documents must be submitted in English. On our marketplace "Consultant," you can order sworn translation of documents into English.
Visa Application Timing
It is very important to accurately calculate the timing of the visa application to ensure its processing before the start of the studies. Failure to do so may have negative consequences for the student. Therefore:
- If the application is submitted outside the UK, documents must be submitted no earlier than 6 months before the start of the studies. Usually, a decision is made within 3 weeks;
- If the application is submitted within the UK, it cannot be submitted earlier than 3 months before the start of the studies. Usually, a decision is made within 2 months.
Restrictions for Foreigners with a Student Visa
One of the advantages of obtaining a student visa for the UK is the opportunity not only to receive high-quality education but also to participate in various student initiatives. However, there are certain prohibitions. With a student visa, it is impossible to:
- Receive state funds (payments) and pensions;
- Work in certain positions, such as professional athlete or sports coach;
- Be self-employed;
- Study in an academy or school funded by local authorities.
Due to the variety of student visas, people often have questions: what to choose and what requirements to follow?
Lawyers working on the "Consultant" marketplace can provide support in the process of obtaining a student visa, offering professional advice on visa requirements and procedures, helping to prepare necessary documents, including application letters and documents confirming financial capability, as well as providing legal consultations on issues that may arise during the visa application process.
