Child Student Visa
If your child is between 4 and 17 years old and plans to study at an independent school in the United Kingdom, the Child Student Visa is the lawful route to make that possible.
At Immigration Solicitors UK, we do more than file applications. We safeguard your child’s education, your family’s legal position, and your long-term residency plans in the UK.
Call +44 20 8016 2308 or submit our secure online form to speak directly with a senior immigration solicitor.
Book your FREE consultation today!
The Strategic Advantage
Our approach is results driven. We focus on compliance, security, and long-term family stability.
Guardianship Compliance Audit
Since November 2025, the Home Office has tightened its oversight of all guardianship and care arrangements.
We ensure your arrangements meet the new safeguarding standards, including the 28 Day Rule that limits a Nominated Guardian to less than 28 continuous days of care.
Longer arrangements automatically become Private Foster Care, requiring formal registration with the Local Authority. We structure your documentation to prevent accidental breaches and protect schools and parents from penalties.
Part Suitability Shield
Under the Home Office’s new Part Suitability framework effective 11 November 2025, applications can be refused if any adult regularly residing with the child’s guardian fails the new background criteria.
We collect and verify dates of birth and National Insurance numbers for all adults in the guardian’s home to prevent automatic refusals.
Solicitor Drafted Parental Consent Letter
We prepare a full consent letter covering travel, reception, and care, precisely meeting the requirements under Appendix CS. This removes the leading cause of administrative delay in Child Student applications.
eVisa Border Compliance for Minors
Since 30 October 2025, physical passport vignettes have been discontinued for most students.
We create a Proxy UKVI Account and ensure your child’s eVisa is correctly linked to their passport, preventing boarding denials, a frequent issue for minors without physical BRP cards in 2026.
Parent Visa Coordination With Sibling Rule Protection
From 11 November 2025, parents in the UK on a Parent of a Child Student Visa may legally care for an older sibling aged 12 or above who also holds a Child Student Visa.
We coordinate both children’s cases to ensure the family remains lawfully united under one care arrangement.
To qualify, your child must:
• Be aged 4 to 17
• Hold an unconditional offer from a licensed independent school
• Have parental consent to study in the UK
• Show adequate financial support for fees and living costs
• Have suitable accommodation and care arrangements
Financial Requirements
Living Arrangement | Monthly Funds Required | Duration |
|---|---|---|
Boarding at independent school | Full boarding fees | Academic year |
Living with foster carer or relative | £570 | Up to 9 months |
Living with parent or guardian | £1,560 | Up to 9 months |
Additional child same parent | £625 | Up to 9 months |
Independent aged 16 to 17 in London | £1,529 | Up to 9 months |
Independent aged 16 to 17 outside London | £1,171 | Up to 9 months |
Funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and your final bank statement must be dated within 31 days before submitting the application.
We conduct a detailed verification of all evidence before submission to avoid technical refusals.
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Our solicitors manage every stage of the application:
- Verify all documents including passport, CAS, financial evidence, and parental consent
- Submit the online application and arrange biometrics if required
- Liaise directly with UKVI to track and manage your case until decision
Duration and Extensions
Children under 16 can stay for their course up to six years plus four months.
Those aged 16 or 17 may stay for up to three years plus four months.
We handle all extensions to ensure continuous lawful status and uninterrupted education.
The Switching Trap
When your child turns 18, they can switch to a Student Visa, but the new course must start within 28 days of their current visa ending.
Missing this window may reset the 10 year continuous residence period used for future settlement eligibility.
We ensure precise timing so your child’s long-term residency record remains unbroken.
Restrictions and Permissions
Students aged 16 or 17 can work part time up to 10 hours per week during term and full time during holidays.
They may not attend state schools, be self employed, or claim public funds.
This visa does not directly lead to settlement but supports a structured path to long term residence when managed professionally.
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- Dedicated representation by regulated solicitors
- Full guardianship and financial compliance audits
- Integrated Parent and Child visa management
- Protection under Legal Professional Privilege
- Transparent fees and guaranteed solicitor contact
Transparent Investment
Item | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
UKVI Visa Fee | £524 | Standard for entry clearance and extensions |
Immigration Health Surcharge | £776 per year | Reduced rate for under 18s |
Professional Legal Fee | Fixed quote | Covers representation, guardianship audit, and ongoing support |
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What We Offer
Our Services
we understand that immigrating to a new country is a significant
decision that comes with its own set of challenges.
Family Visas
Partner Visas
Settlement in the UK
Settlement of EEA Nationals
British Citizenship and The Right of Abode
Challenge a Refusal
Removals/Deportations
Asylum/Human Rights
Sponsor License for a UK Business
UK Business Visas
Student Visas
Popular Work Visas
Other work visas and permits
Visas without a job offer
Work for an overseas employer
Temporary work visas
UK Visit Visas
Speak to Our Solicitors Today
Give your child the best start in the UK with professional legal representation.
Our solicitors ensure every aspect of your application, from guardianship and care to travel and long term planning, is handled correctly the first time.
Call +44 20 8016 2308 or complete our online form to speak directly with an immigration solicitor today.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can parents join their child?
Yes. Parents of children under 12 may apply for a Parent of a Child Student Visa, now with the right to care for older siblings under the 2025 Sibling Rule.
What are the financial requirements?
Independent students in London need £1,529 per month; outside London £1,171 per month.
Can the visa be extended?
Yes, extensions are possible if the child continues at a licensed independent school.
Can my child work during study?
Students aged 16 or 17 can work up to 10 hours per week during term and full time in holidays.
When should I apply?
Applications open three months before the course starts, and most decisions are made within three weeks.
Does this visa count toward settlement?
Not directly, but it forms part of a continuous residence pathway that supports future ILR or long residence applications.
