Child Student Visa

CHILD STUDENT VISA

The Child Student Visa is a UK visa category designed for children aged 4 to 17 who wish to study at an independent school or private school in the UK. This visa allows young students to attend schools that are licensed by the Home Office as student sponsors. It is specifically for children pursuing education at institutions that follow the national curriculum or other recognised qualification frameworks.

Children aged 16 or 17 have the option to apply for a Student Visa if they are pursuing further or higher education (Level 3 or above) at an independent school or higher education provider.

UK Child Student Visa Q&A

  1. What are the age requirements for a UK Child Student Visa?

To apply for a Child Student Visa, the applicant must be aged between 4 and 17 years. Students aged 16 or 17 may also apply for a Student Visa if they are pursuing higher education courses at Level 3 or above.

  1. What type of educational institutions can I attend with a Child Student Visa?

Applicants can attend any independent school (private school) in the UK that is licensed as a student sponsor by the Home Office. The school must offer courses that comply with:

  • The National Curriculum or
  • The Recognised Qualification Framework (RQF) or an equivalent recognised by UK educational bodies (Ofsted, Education Scotland, etc.).
  1. What are the course requirements for a UK Child Student Visa?

Students can apply to study:

  • Courses taught in line with the National Curriculum or RQF.
  • Courses recognised as having equivalent academic status by UK education standards.
  • Courses meeting the inspection standards for independent school education.
  1. What are the financial requirements for a UK Child Student Visa?

You will need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. The amount depends on your living situation:

  • Boarding school: Must show funds for boarding fees for the academic year.
  • Living with a private foster carer or close relative: They must have at least £570 per month of the course (up to 9 months).
  • Living with a parent/guardian on a Parent of a Child Student Visa: You need £1,560 per month for yourself and an additional £625 per month for each dependent child (up to 9 months).
  • Living independently (for 16- and 17-year-olds): You need £1,334 per month (for London) or £1,023 per month (outside London) for up to 9 months.
  1. What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)?

The CAS is a reference number issued by your education provider after you accept an offer for a course. You need the CAS to apply for your visa, and it must include details such as:

  • Course start and end dates.
  • Tuition and accommodation costs.
  • Payments you have made. You must apply for your visa within 6 months of receiving the CAS.
  1. Can I switch into the Child Student route from another visa category?

Yes, you can switch to a Child Student Visa if you are already in the UK, provided you do not hold a visa in the following categories: Visitor, Short-term Student, or outside the Immigration Rules. You must also not be on immigration bail.

  1. How long can I stay on a Child Student Visa?
  • For children under 16, the visa will be granted for the duration of the course or up to 6 years, whichever is shorter.
  • For children aged 16 or 17, the visa will be valid for the duration of the course or up to 3 years, whichever is shorter.
  1. Can I work on a Child Student Visa?

If you are 16 or 17 years old, you may work:

  • Up to 10 hours per week during term time.
  • Full-time during vacations.

Younger children on a Child Student Visa are not permitted to work.

  1. Can I extend my Child Student Visa?

Yes, you can apply for an extension of your Child Student Visa if you remain eligible, are continuing your studies at an independent school, and can demonstrate the necessary financial support.

  1. Does the Child Student Visa lead to settlement in the UK?

No, the Child Student Visa does not lead directly to settlement in the UK. However, after your studies, you may be eligible to switch into another visa route, such as the Student Visa or other relevant immigration categories.

How Kaya Legal Can Assist You

At Kaya Legal, we specialise in assisting young students and their families through the UK Child Student Visa process. Our services include:

  • Visa eligibility assessments: Ensuring that your child meets all the necessary criteria to apply for a UK Child Student Visa.
  • Document preparation: We assist in gathering all required documents, including CAS, proof of finances, and consent from parents or guardians.
  • Visa application support: Our team will help you navigate the complexities of the visa application, ensuring every detail is in line with UK Visas and Immigration requirements.
  • Post-arrival advice: Once your child arrives in the UK, we can provide guidance on visa extensions, switching to other visa categories, and compliance with immigration rules.

Contact Kaya Legal today for expert assistance with your UK Child Student Visa application. We are here to make the process straightforward and successful for you and your child.