Student Visa Archives - Halliday Reeves

Can I Switch From A Student Visa To Skilled Worker Visa Without Completing A Degree Course?

Can I switch from a student visa to skilled worker visa without completing a degree course?

If you are in the UK on a student visa, you may want to take up a job without completing your degree course. It may currently be possible to switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa without completing your degree course. We take a look at the requirements.

At Halliday Reeves, we specialise solely in visas and immigration, meaning we have an exceptionally high level of experience and understanding of this complex area of law.

We represent students and workers in securing and switching visas, enabling them to live, work and study in the UK. If you are considering switching from a student visa to a skilled worker visa without completing your degree course, we can put together a robust application on your behalf. We will also ensure that the right documents accompany your application to give it the best chance of success.

To talk to us about switching from a student visa to a skilled worker visa, please feel free to ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form and we will do all we can to help.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Eligibility To Switch To A Skilled Worker Visa

If you wish to move from a student visa to a skilled worker visa before you have completed your degree, you will need to satisfy the eligibility criteria for the skilled worker visa. This means that:

Your job must be eligible; and
You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English to an acceptable level and provide evidence of this

Job Eligibility For A Skilled Worker Visa

You need to have a confirmed job offer before you apply which must comply with the following requirements:

Be offered by an employer that has been approved by the Home Office
The employer must have a sponsorship licence and have issued you with a certificate of sponsorship in respect of the job you have been offered
The job must be on the government’s list of eligible occupations
The employer must have a genuine vacancy for the position
If you are a new entrant to the labour market, the salary should be at least £20,480 per year. This should also be at least 70% of the ‘going rate’ for the occupation
If you are not a new entrant to the labour market, the job must pay a minimum salary that is the highest of either:
- £26,200 per year; or
- £10.75 per hour; or
- The ‘going rate’
You have sufficient money to support yourself, which is generally £1,270. Your employer can fill in a section of the certificate of sponsorship if they intend to provide money to support you

Fee For Switching From A Student Visa To A Skilled Worker Visa

The application fee for switching to a skilled worker visa from inside of the UK is £719 for up to three years. If you will be applying for more than three years, the fee is £1,423.

If the job you are applying for is on the shortage occupation list, it will be £479 for up to three years and £943 for more than three years.

You also need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is generally £624 per year.

Apply To Switch From A Student Visa To A Skilled Worker Visa

You will need to resubmit your identity information when you apply. This means that you will either need to provide your fingerprints and photograph at a visa service point or use the UK

Immigration: ID Check app to scan your passport.

When you submit your application, you will also need to provide evidence showing that you satisfy all of the above eligibility criteria. If you ask us to represent you, we can go through each point and check that you have adequate evidence. We will advise you on the best documents to include and check that your application is as robust as possible.

You should submit your application before your existing visa expires.

Rules From January 2024

From January 2024, it will not be possible to switch from a student visa to a skilled worker visa until your studies have been successfully completed. This will not affect those on a graduate visa.

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, our immigration solicitors offer a full range of personal immigration services. If you are considering switching from a student visa to a skilled worker visa, we can provide advice and representation.

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert UK immigration lawyers, ring us on0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Student Visa Tier 4

Student visa Tier 4

If you are an overseas student and you have been offered a place to study in the UK, you will need a student visa, previously known as a student visa Tier 4. This will allow you to live and study in the UK. You may also be able to work while you are in the country, subject to some restrictions.

At Halliday Reeves, we are immigration experts. If you require a student visa, we can work with you to put together a strong application. It is important to make sure your first application is accurate and as comprehensive as possible, to avoid it being rejected. We can advise you of the best documents to include alongside your application to provide evidence of your eligibility.

As visa specialists, we have an in-depth understanding of UK Visas and Immigration’s requirements. We have a strong track record of success in securing visas for our clients and are known for the high level of client service that we provide.

To talk to us about our student visa application service, please feel free to ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form and we will do all we can to help.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Eligibility For A UK Student Visa (Formerly A Student Visa Tier 4)

To be eligible for a UK student visa, you need to satisfy the following criteria:

You Have An Offer Of A Place On A Course Made By A Licensed Student Sponsor

The course you are doing needs to be provided by a university, college or other provider that holds a licence allowing them to issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number.

The course will generally need to be a full-time course at degree level or above, or a part-time course above degree level. Some full-time courses below degree level are also acceptable as well as some English language courses and recognised foundation programmes for postgraduate doctors or dentists.

You Have Enough Money To Pay For Your Course And Support Yourself

You need to have funds available to pay for the first year of your course. The sum will be included on your CAS.

You will also need to provide evidence that you have money to support yourself for at least one year. The sum of £1,023 per month for a minimum of nine months is required, or £1,334 per month for nine months if your course is in London.

The money should have been in your bank account for at least 28 days, and day 28 must be within 31 days of the date on which your application for a visa is made.

You Have Sufficient Knowledge Of The English Language

You need evidence that you have an acceptable level of English, to include understanding, reading, writing and speaking. This is usually at level B2 on the Common European Framework of

Reference for Languages scale. If your course is below degree level, B1 is acceptable. Your course provider may assess your level of English by providing you with a test, otherwise you will need to take a Secure English Language Test, unless you are from an exempt country.

Applying For A UK Student Visa

You can apply for a student visa from outside of the UK up to six months before your course starts. If you are already in the UK on another visa, you can apply up to three months before your course starts. Your application should be made before your existing visa ends and your course should start within 28 days of the expiry of the existing visa.

You will need to pay the student visa application fee of £363 if you are applying from outside of the UK. If you are already in the UK and you are switching to a student visa or extending a student visa, the fee is £490.

You also need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is generally £470 per year.

Studying In The UK

Once you have your visa, you will be able to live and study in the UK. If you are doing a degree-level course, you can usually stay for up to five years. For courses below degree-level, you can stay for up to two years.

You can generally work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during term time, although you should check whether your course provider permits this.

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, our immigration solicitors offer a full range of personal immigration services. If you need a UK student visa, we can represent you to make sure your application has the best possible chance of success.

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert UK immigration lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

What Happens If I Work Over 20 Hours On A Student Visa UK?

What happens if I work over 20 hours on a student visa UK?

If you are from overseas and you are studying in the UK, you may be wondering what happens if you work over 20 hours on a student visa. There are strict rules surrounding what you can do under the terms of a student visa and it is important not to breach these. We take a look at the hours you can work and what will happen if you work more than the maximum number of hours on a student visa.

At Halliday Reeves, we secure visas for students from across the globe, enabling them to live and study in the UK. We specialise in visas and immigration and have an exceptional level of legal expertise in this complex area. We are also known for the high level of service we provide to our clients.

If you need a student visa, we can put together the strongest possible application on your behalf. We will also ensure that all of the necessary paperwork is included alongside your application by way of proof that you satisfy the eligibility criteria.

To talk to us about our services or for student visa guidance and advice, please feel free to ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

How Many Hours Can I Work On A Student Visa UK?

If you have a UK student visa, you can work in certain jobs for up to 20 hours per week if you are studying on a full time course at degree level or above. Less than degree level on a full time course and the maximum is 10 hours. This includes both paid and unpaid work. If you work in more than one job, you must add up the hours from both jobs and the total must not exceed 20 hours. You cannot carry unused hours over to another week.

Other restrictions include:

You cannot be self-employed. This includes trading on Ebay (other than selling the occasional unwanted item), carrying out online business or e-commerce or babysitting
You cannot work as a professional sportsperson or as a sports coach
You cannot work as a paid or unpaid entertainer
You cannot work in a business in which you have an interest unless you own less than 10% of the shares and you work as an employee
You cannot take on a full-time job with a permanent contract

You are permitted to work full-time during official holiday periods, but only on a fixed-term contract, ie. a contract with a specified end date. You need to check what official holiday your course includes. Some post-graduate research qualifications do not have any official holiday, so you would not be able to work more than 20/10 hours per week at any time during the year.

What Happens If I Work More Than 20/10 Hours On A Student Visa UK?

If you work more than the maximum number of hours on a UK student visa during the term time or outside of official holiday time, you will be in breach of the conditions of your student visa.

If the Home Office was alerted to this, which could happen through employment or tax records, you could be asked to leave the UK. You are likely to also receive a ban on re-entry for a specified period of time.

The employer could also face penalties. If your university were to discover that you were working for more than the maximum number of hours during term time, they would have a duty to report this to the Home Office.

If you need advice in respect of a student visa, we will be happy to help. If you wish to work in the UK for longer, you may be able to switch to a different visa, and we can advise you of any available options.

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Student Visa Guidance

Student Visa Guidance

If you wish to study in the UK as an overseas student, you will need a student visa. This will allow you to stay in the UK to attend your course, work part-time, subject to some restrictions, and if necessary, apply to extend your visa if you continue your studies.

At Halliday Reeves, we deal with UK student visa applications for clients from around the globe. The process of obtaining a visa is not always straightforward and it is important to include all of the necessary paperwork in support of your application or it could be refused. We can deal with your student application on your behalf, making sure that the right documents are sent with it, providing evidence of your eligibility.

We are immigration specialists, meaning we have an exceptional depth of understanding of both the law and the visa application process. We are known for our track record of success in securing visas for our clients as well as for the high level of personal service we provide.

We can put together the strongest possible visa application on your behalf. If you have had a visa application rejected, we can advise you of your options and, where appropriate, submit a fresh application.

We also deal with student visa extensions and visa applications for the partner or children of student visa holders.

To talk to us about our services or for student visa guidance and advice, please feel free to ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Am I Eligible For A Student Visa?

If you are aged 16 or over, you may be eligible for a student visa if you have been offered a place on a course offered by a licensed student sponsor. They will be able to provide you with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or CAS form. This will include the reference number that you will need for your application.

To be eligible, you will need:

Enough money to pay for the first year of your course
Enough money to support yourself for nine months, which is £1,023 per month or £1,334 per month if your course will take place in London
Evidence that your English is at an acceptable standard, which could mean taking a Secure English Language Test

How To Apply For A UK Student Visa

If you will be applying from outside of the UK, you can apply up to six months before your course is due to start.

If you will be applying from inside of the UK, you can apply up to three months before the course starts. This must be before your current visa expires.

You will need to provide your biometric information (photograph and fingerprints) at a visa application centre or create a UK Visas and Immigration account and use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to provide your identity document to the authorities.

Your application needs to take place online and we can help you with this. It will need to be accompanied by documentary evidence that you satisfy all of the eligibility criteria, for example, bank statements showing that you hold sufficient funds and that you have done for the required period. We will go through each point with you and make sure that the best evidence is included in support.

Bringing Your Partner And Children To The UK If You Have A Student Visa

If you are granted a student visa, your partner and your children may also be able to secure a visa to join you in the UK.

You will need to be a full-time student on a post-graduate level course or a government-sponsored student or on a doctorate extension scheme.

Eligible family members are:

A spouse or civil partner
An unmarried partner
A child aged under 18

Each individual will need to make a visa application. Comprehensive paperwork will be needed to provide evidence of their relationship to you and that the necessary financial criteria are satisfied and we can advise you on what needs to be included with the application.

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Child Student Visa UK

Child Student Visa UK

If your child is between 4 and 17 years old and you would like them to attend an independent school in the UK, they will need a child student visa.

At Halliday Reeves, we specialise in visas and Immigration and we can put together the strongest possible application on behalf of your child. We will go through the eligibility criteria with you and make sure that we have the right documents to support the application, giving evidence that all of the necessary points are met.

As visa experts, we have an in-depth understanding of both the complex law in this area and the way in which UK Visas and Immigration works in processing applications. We routinely secure child student visas for our clients and have an exceptionally high success rate for visa applications.

To talk to us about our services, please feel free to ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form and we will do all we can to help.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Eligibility For A Child Student Visa UK

To be eligible for a child student visa, your child should be aged between 4 and 17. If they are 18 or older, they can apply for a student visa.

Study Requirements

They will need to have been offered an unconditional place on a course offered by an independent school. The course should follow the national curriculum or another similar standard, but cannot be a foundation course for a higher education institute. The school should provide you with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or CAS form with a reference number that will be needed for the application. The application needs to be submitted within six months of the date of issue of the CAS.

Accompanying Parent

If your child is under 12, you can apply for a parent of a child student visa for yourself. This will allow you to accompany your child to the UK. If your child is over 12, you cannot apply for a parent of a child student visa. Other options include boarding school or your child living with a foster carer or close relative. Once your child is 16 or 17, they can live independently.

Financial Requirements

You will need to show that there are sufficient funds available to pay for your child’s education and to support them while they are in the UK.

If they will be living with a parent, they will need £1,560 per month for both them and the parent, plus the cost of the course.

If they will be boarding, you will need the full cost of the course plus boarding fees

If they will be living with a carer or relative, they will need £570 plus the cost of the course. The carer or relative must be a British citizen or have indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

If your child is 16 or 17, they will need £1,023 per month plus the cost of the course. If they will be living in London, this rises to £1,334 per month.

Applying For A Child Student Visa UK

The application can be made online. We will go through the details with you and check that you have the right evidence to prove that you meet all of the eligibility criteria. This will include:

An up to date passport or valid travel identification document
Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies form
Parental consent
Evidence that sufficient money is in place
Evidence of your relationship to your child
Evidence of any qualifications required by the school
Tuberculosis test results, if you are from an affected country

Other documents may also be needed. We will go through your specific circumstances and advise you as to what else will be necessary and make sure that your application is comprehensive.
Your child will also need to provide biometric information at a visa application centre or provide their identity via the UK Immigration: ID Check app.

Contact Our UK Child Student Visa Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, we have extensive experience in securing UK child student visas. If you have any questions, we will be happy to hear from you.

We have offices in Gateshead, Middlesbrough, Wakefield and Nottingham. To speak to one of our expert UK immigration lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

If your child is between 4 and 17 years old and you would like them to attend an independent school in the UK, they will need a child student visa.

At Halliday Reeves, we specialise in visas and Immigration and we can put together the strongest possible application on behalf of your child. We will go through the eligibility criteria with
you and make sure that we have the right documents to support the application, giving evidence that all of the necessary points are met.

To talk to us about our services, please feel free to ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form and we will do all we can to help.

Eligibility For A Child Student Visa UK

To be eligible for a child student visa, your child should be aged between 4 and 17. If they are 18 or older, they can apply for a student visa.

Study Requirements

Accompanying Parent

Financial Requirements

You will need to show that there are sufficient funds available to pay for your child’s education and to support them while they are in the UK.

If they will be living with a parent, they will need £1,560 per month for both them and the parent, plus the cost of the course.

If they will be boarding, you will need the full cost of the course plus boarding fees

If they will be living with a carer or relative, they will need £570 plus the cost of the course. The carer or relative must be a British citizen or have indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

If your child is 16 or 17, they will need £1,023 per month plus the cost of the course. If they will be living in London, this rises to £1,334 per month.

Applying For A Child Student Visa UK

The application can be made online. We will go through the details with you and check that you have the right evidence to prove that you meet all of the eligibility criteria. This will include:

An up to date passport or valid travel identification document
Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies form
Parental consent
Evidence that sufficient money is in place
Evidence of your relationship to your child
Evidence of any qualifications required by the school
Tuberculosis test results, if you are from an affected country

Other documents may also be needed. We will go through your specific circumstances and advise you as to what else will be necessary and make sure that your application is comprehensive.

Your child will also need to provide biometric information at a visa application centre or provide their identity via the UK Immigration: ID Check app.

Contact Our UK Child Student Visa Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, we have extensive experience in securing UK child student visas. If you have any questions, we will be happy to hear from you.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Can You Work On A Student Visa UK

Can You Work On A Student Visa UK?

If you are coming to the UK to study, you may be wondering if you can work under the terms of your student visa. We take a look at the requirements for obtaining a student visa and the rules about working once you have moved to the UK.

At Halliday Reeves, we specialise in immigration. We have put together successful student visa applications for many clients from around the globe so that they can come to the UK to study. We can work on your behalf to ensure that your application is as strong as possible and that the right paperwork is included in support.

We know how important it is for you to secure a visa to enable you to take up your place to study and we will make sure you have the support you need throughout the application process. If you have had your application refused, we can advise you of your options and where appropriate put together a fresh application on your behalf.

To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship solicitors, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.

Applying For A UK Student Visa

If you are aged 16 or over, you can apply for a UK student visa, provided you are eligible. You will need to have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor. They will provide you with a document known as a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.

You will need to have an adequate level of English and you may need to take a Secure English Language Test to prove this. You will also need to have sufficient funds to pay for the course and support yourself while you are in the UK. Evidence of this is to be provided when your application is sent.

Can I Work On A Student Visa?

Once you have a student visa and you have taken up your place on a course, you may want to work. There are strict rules in place in respect of student visa working hours and it is important that you do not breach them as this could affect your immigration status, particularly if you wish to extend your visa in the future or switch to another visa.

Generally, the visa rules allow students on courses at degree level and above to work for up to 20 hours per week during term time. For full time courses below degree level the limit is 10 hours per week and for all other study work is not permitted. This includes unpaid and voluntary work. If less than 20/10 hours are worked, the remainder cannot be carried forward and no more than 20/10 hours can be worked in any single term time week. A week is defined as being from Monday to Sunday inclusive. You should also note that universities may have their own rules about whether students can work. By way of example, students at Oxford and Cambridge cannot generally work at all during the term time.

Where you are entitled to work during term time; during the holidays, you are allowed to work full-time under the conditions of a student visa, but you cannot sign a permanent contract. You will need to check the official end of term dates with your university. For students on research-based courses, there might not be any holiday time, in which case only 20 hours per week can be worked.

Certain work activities are not permitted under a student visa, including:

Self-employment
Working in a business in which you have an interest, unless as an employee
Taking on a permanent full-time job
Working as a professional sportsperson, coach or entertainer, even if this is an unpaid position
Working as a trainee doctor or dentist, unless you are on a foundation programme

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

If you need help in applying for a student visa, we will be happy to hear from you. We have an excellent track record of success in putting together student visa applications. We will ensure that your application is comprehensive and that it includes the right evidence to back up your visa request.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Student Visa UK Working Hours

Student Visa UK Working Hours

If you are applying for a UK student visa, you may need to know how many hours you will be permitted to work. We take a look at the process of securing a student visa and the government’s limits on UK student visa working hours.

At Halliday Reeves, we are immigration law experts. We have many years of experience in helping students obtain visas and a high success rate in respect of student visa applications.

The student visa application process can be complex and you will need to provide a range of evidence in support. If mistakes are made, it could result in your application being rejected. We can make sure that your application is as strong as possible and that all of the right paperwork is included to give you a good prospect of success.

To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship solicitors, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Applying For A Student Visa

If you are an overseas student and you have been offered a place on a UK course provided by a licensed student sponsor, you will need to apply for a student visa. Your placement could be a full-time degree course or a full or part-time post-graduate course. It is also open to you to apply for a student visa if you have been offered certain other options, including a full-time post as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer.

You will need to have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course as well as the required standard of English. We can guide you as to the amount of money required and ensure you have documentary evidence of this as well as of your English abilities.

Permitted Student Visa Working Hours UK

For students following a full time course at degree level or above: The UK student visa generally allows you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time. Unpaid work will also be included in this total. The hours cannot be averaged over a longer period of time, meaning no more than 20 hours can be worked in any week during term time. You should note that certain universities including Oxford and Cambridge do not permit students to work during term time. Full time work is permitted outside of term time.

If your visa is for a full-time degree course, you can work full-time outside of the official term-time. For post-graduate courses, you will need to check when the university course officially ends. If the course is taught, you will be notified of when your term ends. For research-based post-graduate courses, there is usually no official break during the year so you will not be able to take up full-time work.

For students undertaking a full time course below degree level, generally this is a maximum of 10 hours per week during term time with full time employment permitted outside of term time.

For all other study, no employment is permitted.

What Type Of Work Is Allowed On A UK Student Visa?

There are certain restrictions relating to the type of work allowed on a UK student visa, and the following are not permitted:

Self-employed work
Business activity, ie. working in a business, in which you have an interest, in any capacity other than as an employee
Taking on a permanent full-time position, meaning that if you take on full-time work it must be on a fixed-term basis, with a specified end date
Working as a professional sportsperson or sports coach, either paid or unpaid
Working as an entertainer, either paid or unpaid
Working as a trainee doctor or dentist, except on a foundation programme

Internships And Work Placements

Internships and work placements can be undertaken during the official university vacations. If the placement is an official part of the course, details will need to be provided to UK Visas and Immigration.

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, we can advise you on all aspects of the UK student visa, including what work you can undertake. It is important not to jeopardise your visa, so you are strongly advised to check before taking on work if you have any concerns.

We can also put together a strong UK student visa application on your behalf and advise you on the best evidence to be included in support.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

UK Student Visa Extension

UK Student Visa Extension

If you hold a UK student visa or a Tier 4 (General) student visa, you may want to extend this so that you can stay longer to complete your studies or start a new course.

If you are applying for a UK student visa extension, it is important to make sure that your application is right the first time. If there is an error in your application or you do not send the right documents in support, you are likely to be refused an extension. You will then need to try and re-apply or you may even have to appeal the decision.

At Halliday Reeves, we are immigration specialists. We routinely deal with student visa extensions and we can make sure that your application is as strong as possible.

It is usually necessary to include a substantial amount of paperwork with your application by way of evidence that you are eligible and meet all of the criteria. We can work with you to establish exactly what needs to be sent to give you the best chance of success.

We have a proven track record of securing extensions to UK student visas for our clients and we always work to send applications promptly so that you will receive the permission you need

To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship solicitors, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“Good experienced staff and friendly too…. takes care of their clients very well… definitely approachable”

Student Visa Extension UK – Requirements And Eligibility

To be eligible for a UK student visa extension, you must:

Hold a valid UK student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
Have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies document issued by a licensed student sponsor giving you an unconditional offer of a place on a course
Be taking up studies at a higher academic level than your previous course, or if it is at the same level, be related to your previous course or your career aspirations and be at degree level

There are some exceptions to the requirement to study at a higher level, including where you are resitting exams, completing a doctorate or the extension is needed because of a work placement or a period of overseas study.

Apply For A UK Student Visa Extension

The application for a UK student visa extension is made online. The earliest you can apply is three months before your course starts. Your application needs to be made within six months of the date on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.

You also need to make sure that you apply before your existing visa expires. Your new course must start within 28 days of your current visa expiring.

Fee For A Student Visa Extension

The fee for a student visa extension is £490. You will also need to pay the healthcare surcharge of £470 for each year that you will be in the UK.

If you have had a UK visa for 12 months prior to the date of your student visa application, you do not need to prove the financial requirement.

Contact Our Immigration Lawyers

At Halliday Reeves, our immigration solicitors offer a full range of personal immigration services and business immigration services, including help with applications for student visa extensions. We can go through your application with you and ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and confirm that extending your existing student visa is the best UK immigration route for you.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

Student Dependent Visa UK

Student Dependent Visa UK

If you hold a student visa then your dependent partner and/or your children may be able to apply to come to the UK with you. If they are granted a visa, this will end on the same date as your student visa.

At Halliday Reeves, we deal exclusively with immigration, meaning we have a high level of expertise in securing visas for our clients. We can help you or your family with visa applications, ensuring that the right evidence is included in support giving you the best possible chance of success.

We know how important it will be to you to have your family with you in the UK. You will find our immigration solicitors to be helpful and approachable and we will work with you to identify the best documents to include with their application and ensure that they have chosen the most appropriate immigration route to the UK.

To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship solicitors, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Are My Dependants Eligible To Come To The UK On A Student Dependent Visa?

To enable your partner and/or your children to apply to come to the UK, you need to be either:

A full-time student on a postgraduate course that lasts a minimum of 9 months; or
A new government or International sponsorship agency-sponsored student on a full- time course of at least 6 months; or
A student on a Doctorate Extension Scheme

Dependants who can apply are:

A spouse or civil partner
An unmarried partner
A child aged under 18

You will need to supply full evidence of your relationship with your dependant. In the case of an unmarried partner, this can be substantial and it is important to include enough information to show that it is a genuine relationship.

If your child is aged 16 or 17, it is necessary to provide paperwork to show that they are not living an independent life. This includes proof of where they live, what rent or upkeep is paid each month and evidence that you support them financially if they do not live with you.

Documents are also needed to show that each dependant has enough money available to support them. This is £845 per month for up to 9 months in London or £680 per month for up to 9 months outside of London.

Each applicant must have sufficient money available. This includes you as the student. You will need the minimum amount of money to live on, plus your course fees, plus the healthcare surcharge.

We can advise you of the amount you need to have available and how you can demonstrate that you have this to the satisfaction of UK Visas and Immigration.

Applying For A Student Dependent Visa UK

The application should be made online. Your dependants will need to use your student application number that you were given when you applied for your visa.

They will also need to give their biometric information at a visa application centre. This will enable the authorities to prepare a biometric residence permit which they can collect within 10 days of their planned arrival date in the UK.

The application fee is £490 for each dependant plus the healthcare surcharge. The healthcare surcharge is generally £624 for each year that the individual will be staying, or £470 for students and those aged under 18.

UK Student Dependent Visa New Rules

In early 2023, the government’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) was launched. This is gradually being rolled out to individuals from various countries. It gives people who do not need a visa permission to travel to the UK for up to six months. If your relative intends to stay in the UK for longer than six months, they will still need a visa and will not require an ETA.

Contact Our Immigration Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, our immigration solicitors offer a full range of personal immigration services and business immigration services. If you want to have your dependent relatives with you in the UK while you are here as a student, we can put together a strong visa application on their behalf.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”

UK Student Visa Application

UK Student Visa Application

If you are an overseas student aged 16 or over and you wish to study a further education course in the UK, you will need a student visa. This will entitle you to live and study in the UK for the duration of your course. There is also the option for family and dependants to apply to accompany you. At the end of your course, you may be able to apply for an extension if you wish to move on to a course at a higher academic level.

At Halliday Reeves Solicitors, our lawyers deal exclusively with immigration and visa applications. This means we have an exceptionally in-depth level of expertise and understanding of the visa application process.

It is important to make sure that your student visa application is as strong as possible and that all of the right evidence is included in support. Without this, your request for a student visa could be refused. Our student visa lawyers can put together a robust application on your behalf, giving you the best chance of success and ensuring that the right paperwork is sent to UK Visas and Immigration.

To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship solicitors, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.

“All went well and I got all the special services you could expect from such a professional organisation. I will 100% advise anyone who is in need of the immigration services with pride.”

Eligibility For A Student Visa

You will need an unconditional offer from an education provider who holds a student sponsor licence. They will give you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or CAS reference number to use on your visa application.

Your course needs to be one of the following:

A full-time course with a minimum of 15 hours of organised study each week for a course at level 3, 4 or 5, such as A-levels or a diploma of higher education
A full-time course at degree level or above that is equivalent to a UK higher education course and is delivered as part of a longer course overseas
A part-time course for a qualification that is above degree level, such as a master’s degree
A recognised foundation course for postgraduate doctors or dentists
An English language course at level B2 or above

Requirements To Apply For Student Visa UK

When making your UK student visa application, you will also need to provide evidence that you have the required level of funding available. This includes the amount you will need to support yourself of £1,334 per month for up to nine months for a course in London or £1,023 per month for up to nine months for a course outside of London.

You will also need enough money to pay for the course as well as the student visa application fee of £363, if you will be applying from outside of the UK, and the healthcare surcharge of £470 for each year you will be in the UK.

We can advise you of the total amount you will need and how you can demonstrate to the visa authorities that you hold sufficient funds.

In addition to funding, you need to have documentary evidence that your knowledge of English is at an acceptable standard. This could be by holding a qualifying degree, passing a Secure English Language Test in the previous two years before the date of the application or by holding a GCSE or A-level from a UK school. Individuals from certain English-speaking countries are exempt from proving knowledge of English as are those who are applying for a course at degree level and above from certain establishments who confirm on the CAS that they have assessed the applicant’s English language ability.

Contact Our Student Visa Solicitors

At Halliday Reeves, our immigration solicitors offer a full range of personal immigration services and business immigration services. If you need help to make sure you are given the student visa you need, we will be happy to hear from you.

“Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for how you handled our enquiry. We were both feeling anxious about making contact with a solicitor to discuss our circumstances. You were so warm, friendly and understanding when we spoke.”