With excellent post-study employment prospects, top-notch educational institutions, and a diverse community, the UK continues to be one of the most alluring locations for international students. But whoever wants to stay in the country to continue their studies after the expiration of their first visa needs to have at their disposal the Extension Student Visa UK. As the immigration rules are evolving, students must be prepared to avoid any problems with their education and UK status due to the changes in relations with their jobs, financial requirements, and education. Having excellent educational institutes for centuries, this is a dream for thousands of students across the globe. But it is ok to be slightly concerned about what to do beyond your Visa. Thankfully, if you plan accordingly and comply with proper rules and regulations, it is quite easy to extend your student visa. Whether you are pursuing your current course of study, upgrading to a higher level of study, or coming back to do a bachelor’s degree, this guide will get you started.
Step 1: Determine your Eligibility.
Be sure you have the right to extend your “student visa” before you do so. You need to be currently studying at an institution within the United Kingdom, recognised by the institution to be a part of a UK Recognised Body, and have a proven history of compliance. Students must also be enrolled in an academic course that is of an appropriate level. A change of institutions and/or upgrading the course will require your new University or college to sponsor your visa. Vital, while you start when applying, you must first verify your eligibility to save time and money.
Step 2: Find your application deadline:
The timing of the visa extension is very important. This should be done no more than 3 months before your current visa runs out. However, don’t wait too close to the last minute. Last-minute applications can be stressful, and uncertain of the validity of visas, should they expire during the process. You will have ample time to apply to the counter six to eight weeks before the expiry of your visa.
Step 3: Compile Your Records
There are many important things that need to be done throughout this process, but one of the most important ones is arranging the paperwork. You need to have a current passport, a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) Number for your university, and proof of English language proficiency. Additionally, you could be required to present bank statements attesting to your ability to sustain yourself while pursuing your education. Some applicants may be required to submit their Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance depending on the subject they are studying. A very common source of delays is missing documents – be extra cautious with each document.
Step 4: Use the Online Portal for the United Kingdom’s Immigration Department (UKVI)
All applications for student visa extensions are made online for the UK through UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). You need to create a new account if you don’t have one already. The form will ask for personal information, course, CAS number, and financial status. Carefully and slowly complete the form, and match all the information with your papers, needless to say.
5. Pay your Immigration Health Surcharge plus Application fee.
Two separate fees will be collected once or upon application. The first is the application fee for a student visa, which is currently around £490 for applications made from within the UK. The second is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which means the use of the National Health Service (NHS) during the period of stay. The longer you get your extension, the more your IHS will cost; and it is charged yearly for your visa. You NEVER save money, and then come back to it later for payment; you must have the money BEFORE you start your application!
Step 6: Plan a Biometric Consultation
It is necessary to make an appointment to attend a local UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center after submitting a visa application and paying a fee. Fingerprints and a photo will be taken during this appointment. This is known as your biometrics. Slot machines can become busy, particularly during busy periods, and so it’s crucial to book an appointment to claim your ticket as soon as you enter your form. Make sure to bring your passport and any paperwork that you would have e-filed to this appointment, as well as all of your original documents with you.
Step 7: Know Your Rights and Wait For The Decision
Waiting time begins once you have finished your biometric appointment. This usually takes about 8 weeks although it may be quicker or slower, depending on the workload of the UKVI at the time. While you wait you do not need to suspend or cease your education, but you are allowed to continue your studies under the old visa. If a decision has not been made on your visa application before your visa runs out, you will have a visa called ‘section 3C leave’ which is legal to be in the UK whilst you are waiting for your visa. The new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will be sent to you in the mail if your extension is successful.
Final Words
There’s no need to find gaining a student visa extension in the UK difficult. If you do these seven preliminary steps and prepare ahead, and don’t forget to leverage what you have, then you increase your chances of getting accepted. Be organized, work fast and be willing to ask for assistance when necessary.