2 September 2024
UK Tier 4 Visa lets students study in the UK.
However, it is important to get familiar with several aspects of this visa type, including process, fees, and certain conditions.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the UK Tier 4 visa, including eligibility requirements, the application process, necessary documents, and more.
Don’t worry! We have come up with this comprehensive guide to help you.
What is a UK Tier 4 Visa?
For international students who want to study in the UK, there is the UK Tier 4 Visa, which is currently called the Student Visa. With this visa, you have the legal right to reside in the UK for the length of your studies at any accredited university.
Eligibility for UK Tier 4 Visa
To be eligible for a UK Tier 4 visa, you must meet specific criteria:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old.
- Offer from an Approved Sponsor: Make sure to get an offer from a recognized educational institution.
- Financial Requirements: You need to show sufficient funds to fulfill your tuition fees and living expenses.
- English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in English.
Documents Required for UK Tier 4 Visa
Before applying for a UK Tier 4 visa, gather the following documents:
- Current Passport or Travel Document: Ensure it is valid and up to date.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Number: It is issued by the university you have applied to.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements or financial sponsor letters.
- Passport-Sized Color Photograph: Recent photo meeting official requirements.
- Tuberculosis Test Results: Get this test done from the authorized clinic.
Additional Documents
– ATAS Certificate: If your course requires it and your nationality is eligible.
– Letter of consent from parents or guardians: Required for applicants under the age of eighteen.
– Relationship Proof: If you are under 18, provide proof of your relationship to your parent or legal guardian.
– Financial Sponsor Authorization: If you’ve been financially supported in the past 12 months.
How to Apply for a UK Tier 4 Visa
Applying for a UK Tier 4 visa involves several key steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Accept the Offer
Accept the unconditional offer letter from your chosen institution. Ensure the offer includes the course name, duration, and university details.
– Verify Details: Check for any errors in the offer letter and report them to the university.
Step 2: Receive CAS
Once everything is verified, you will receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) within five working days. Ensure that tuition deposits and scholarships are correctly noted in your CAS.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Arrange all necessary documents in the order specified by the UK visa guidelines.
Step 4: Apply Online
Submit your UK Tier 4 visa application online. You will need to pay a visa application fee of £348 (approximately INR 32,444). If you want priority processing, additional fees apply.
Step 5: Schedule Your Visa Appointment
Make an appointment in person at the Visa Application Center to turn in your paperwork and biometric information.
Step 6: Pay Health Surcharge
To use the National Health Service (NHS), pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). You will pay £300 (about INR 28,062) and an additional £150 (about INR 14,031) a year for this.
Step 7: Receive Your Visa
Upon approval of your application, you will be issued a Vignette Visa Sticker that will grant you a 30-day entry permit into the UK. A confirmation letter from UK Visas and Immigration will also be sent to you.
Step 8: Collect Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
After arriving in the UK, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from your institution or authorized post office within 10 days.
UK Tier 4 Visa Fees and Costs
Understanding the fees and additional costs associated with the UK Tier 4 visa is essential for planning your studies abroad.
Basic Fees
– Visa Application Fee: £348 (approximately INR 32,444).
– Priority Service (Optional): €500 (approximately INR 40,314) for faster processing.
Health Insurance Fee
– Basic Insurance: €470 (approximately INR 37,895) for stays over six months.
An additional fee of €235 (about INR 18,947) if the stay is shorter than six months.
Priority Service & Processing Time
A UK Tier 4 visa normally takes three weeks to process from the date of your biometric appointment.
. If you choose the priority service, you’ll receive a faster decision.
– Standard Processing: 3 weeks.
– Priority Processing: Additional €500 for expedited service.
Extending Your UK Tier 4 Visa
If you plan to continue your studies, you may be eligible to extend your Tier 4 visa. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility for Extension
– You must be in the UK on a Tier 4 (General) student visa.
You’ve received an offer letter for a new course that is unconditional.
The academic level of your new course is higher than that of your old one.
When to Apply
– If you’re not from the UK, apply six months ahead of the start of your new degree.
Apply within three months of the expiration of your existing visa if you are in the UK.
Conclusion
Navigating the UK Tier 4 visa process might seem daunting, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can secure your student visa smoothly.
To know more about studying in the UK and visa requirements, reach out to our study abroad experts at Landmark Immigration.
