Information on Student Visitor Visas

If you come to the UK to study for six months or less and intend to take up work, including voluntary work, part-time work, vacation work or a work placement as part of your course, you MUST hold a valid Tier 4 General Student Visa.

If there is a possibility that you will want to apply to extend your stay then you must also apply for a Tier 4 General Student Visa.

If you are coming to study in the UK for a period of six months or less and do not wish to take part-time employment or seek an extension to your student visitor leave, then you are eligible to enter the UK on a Student Visitor Visa.

Visa National Students

If you are from one of the countries listed under 'More information' on the UK Border Agency Information for non-visa nationals webpage, then you are considered to be a visa national and you must apply for leave to enter as a Student Visitor prior to arrival in the UK.

Non-Visa National Students

You are a non-visa national if you fall in one of the following categories:

  • a national or citizen of any country that is not listed under 'More information'  on the UK Border Agency Information for non-visa nationals webpage;
  • a British overseas territories citizen;
  • a British overseas citizen;
  • a British national (overseas);
  • a British protected person; or
  • a British subject.

If you intend to leave the UK within six months of starting your studies and do not wish to seek employment then you are not required under UK immigration law to obtain prior entry clearance.

Instead, on arrival in the UK, you may seek leave to enter as a Student Visitor by presenting immigration officers with details of your programme of study (your offer letter). You must also be able to demonstrate that you have the financial resources to meet the costs of your stay.

Page last modified on 13 apr 12 11:47

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