If you have been accepted into a UK educational institution, you will need a student residence permit to enroll and live in the UK during your studies. The UK student visa (previously known as the Tier 4 visa) allows you to reside in the country while pursuing your education. The permit is typically granted for the duration of your course and can be extended if necessary, depending on your study progress.
Who Needs a Residence Permit to Study in the UK?
Everyone, including students from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland, now requires a student residence permit to study in the UK following Brexit.
Here is a breakdown of visa and residence permit requirements for international students in the UK:
Do not need a visa or residence permit:
- Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland
Need a student visa (Tier 4 or Student Visa):
- Citizens of all other countries
How to Apply for a Student Residence Permit in the UK
To study in the UK, international students need to Apply for a Student Visa, which is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
Here’s a step-by-step description of how to apply for a student residence permit in the UK:
Step 1: Choose the Right Visa
The first step is to determine whether you qualify for the Student Visa (formerly Tier 4). You must be accepted into a course at a recognized UK educational institution and have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) before applying.
Step 2: Apply for the Student Visa Online
You can apply for your Student Visa online through the UK Government’s official website. The process requires providing personal details, documentation, and paying the visa fee. You may also need to book and attend a biometric appointment at a local visa application center.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
The documents required for a Student Visa application generally include:
- A valid passport
- The CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) reference number
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself (bank statements or sponsorship letters)
- Proof of your English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL results)
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Evidence of your qualifications and previous academic history
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After gathering your documents, submit your visa application and pay the application fee. The processing time for a student visa typically takes 8 weeks. In some cases, you may be eligible for faster processing at an additional cost.
Step 5: Wait for the Decision
Once you’ve submitted your application and attended your biometric appointment, you’ll have to wait for a decision on your visa. If your application is successful, you’ll be issued a visa vignette (sticker in your passport) which allows you to enter the UK. Upon arrival, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
Cost of the UK Student Visa
The cost for a Student Visa (Tier 4) application is:
- Visa application fee: £348 for courses lasting up to 6 months or £475 for courses lasting more than 6 months.
- Immigration health surcharge: £470 per year, which gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Duration of UK Student Residence Permits
Your Student Visa will be valid for the duration of your course, plus a short period after the course ends to allow time for you to prepare for departure or transition to another visa type. For example, if your course is 1 year long, your visa will typically be issued for 1 year plus an additional few months after the end of your studies.
If you need to extend your visa to continue your studies, you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires.
Working Rights With a Student Residence Permit in the UK
As an international student in the UK, you are allowed to work part-time during term time and full-time during university breaks. The work restrictions depend on your course and level of study:
- Degree-level students: Can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- Non-degree students: Can work up to 10 hours per week.
During university vacations, you can work full-time.
Important Note: Freelance work or self-employment is not permitted without explicit approval from the UK Home Office.
After Graduation: Staying in the UK
After completing your studies, you have several options for staying in the UK:
Option 1: Switch to a Graduate Visa
The Graduate Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 2 years after completing an eligible degree at a UK institution. During this time, you can work at any skill level without requiring a sponsor.
Option 2: Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa
If you receive a job offer from a UK employer that meets the required salary and skill level, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for longer and can lead to permanent residency after 5 years.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) for Students
Upon approval of your student visa, you will be issued a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) once you arrive in the UK. The BRP is a crucial document that serves as proof of your immigration status and allows you to access various services in the UK, including:
- Proof of your right to study and work (under specified conditions)
- A unique reference number for official records
- A photograph and fingerprints for identity verification
You must collect your BRP within 10 days of arriving in the UK, and it is required for tasks such as opening a bank account and verifying your legal status in the country.
Settlement for International Students in the UK
After working in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa for 5 years, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which grants you permanent residency.And you become eligible for settlement. This status allows you to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions, move freely within the UK, and access public services and benefits.