UK Student Visa

Purpose and Use

Primarily, this visa caters to students enrolled in full-time degree courses, but it's also applicable to certain types of part-time studies. Whether you're pursuing an undergraduate degree, a postgraduate program, or certain research assignments, the Student Visa is your academic pass to the UK.

Key Features

• Eligibility for Full-time Courses: You must have an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor.
• Work Permissions: Allows for part-time work during term time and full-time work during vacations, depending on the level of your course and the type of sponsor.
• Healthcare Access: Grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) upon payment of the health surcharge.
• Dependents: Permits dependents for certain courses and conditions.

Restrictions

• Course Requirements: The course must meet the full-time study requirement, and the institution must be a licensed sponsor.
• Financial Proof: Must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs for the duration of the course.
• No Public Funds: You cannot access public funds or benefits.

Salmo Pro Tips

• Document Readiness: Make sure all crucial documents, like your offer letter, English proficiency proof, and financial documents, are in order. A key reason for student visa rejections is insufficient funds shown in bank statements or not demonstrating that funds have been maintained for at least 28 days.
• Know Your Work Rights: It's essential to know the rules around working as a student in the UK. Gaining work experience is beneficial, but staying within your permitted hours is crucial for maintaining a clean record, especially if you're considering long-term stay in the UK.
• Smart Budgeting: Life in the UK, particularly in cities like London, can be pricey. Carefully plan for your tuition, living expenses, and personal spending. Don't forget to make the most of student discounts to stretch your budget further.

Can you settle in the UK with a Student Visa?

No, you can't settle in the UK directly with a Student Visa. It's meant for your education in the UK, covering your course duration plus a brief period before and after. While it opens doors for education and life experiences in the UK, it doesn't lead straight to permanent residency. After studying, students might opt for a 2-year Graduate Visa, but like the Student Visa, it also doesn't offer a direct path to settlement.

What visa should I go for if I want to settle in the UK?

For students on a Student Visa in the UK looking towards settlement, transitioning to a different visa category is necessary. Here are three viable options to consider:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

After completing your studies, if you secure a job offer from a UK employer who is approved by the Home Office and your job meets the skill and salary requirements, you can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. 

• Eligibility: You must have a job offer from a UK employer holding a valid Sponsor Licence, and the job offer must be at the appropriate skill level (RQF3 or above) and pay a minimum salary threshold.
• Points-Based System: Applicants must score enough points based on their job offer, salary, knowledge of English, and other criteria.
• Path to Settlement: Eligible for settlement after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK.
• Duration: The visa can be issued for up to 5 years before needing an extension.

2. Innovator Founder Visa

For those with entrepreneurial spirits, the Innovator Founder visas present opportunities to start a business in the UK. The Innovator Visa, in particular, is for those with a viable, scalable business idea that is endorsed by an approved body. 

• Endorsement: A UK endorsing body must assess and approve your business idea. Book a consultation session with us if you want to learn more about the Innovator Founder visa and understand if you eligible for it!
• Path to Settlement: Provides a pathway to settlement after 3 years, subject to meeting specific business growth criteria.
• Duration: Granted for 3 years, with the possibility to extend and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
  

3. Global Talent Visa

If you're recognised as a leader or potential leader in specific fields like science, humanities, engineering, the arts, and digital technology, you might qualify for the Global Talent Visa. This visa requires an endorsement from a relevant UK body. It provides a flexible route to settlement, allowing for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 3 or 5 years, depending on your qualification level.

• Eligibility: You need to be endorsed by a recognized UK body as a leader or an emerging leader in your field.
• Flexibility: There's no requirement for a job offer, allowing you to work, be self-employed, or start your own business in the UK.
• Path to Settlement: It offers a route to settlement, usually after 3 or 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, depending on your qualification level.
• Duration: Initially granted for up to 5 years, with the option to extend.