Child Student Visa
The UK Child Student Visa allows children aged 4 to 17 to study at a UK independent school.
We explain the eligibility requirements, financial evidence, guardianship arrangements and
application process for families planning to send a child to school in the UK.
The Child Student Visa allows children
aged between 4 and 17 to study full-time at a licensed independent school in the United Kingdom.
It is separate from the main Student Visa, which covers older students studying at universities
and other eligible institutions.
The Child Student route is specifically for UK independent schools. It cannot normally be
used to attend a state school.
Before applying, the child must have an unconditional offer from a licensed Student Sponsor.
The school then issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is required for
the visa application.
Changes introduced from 29 May 2025 strengthened the requirements surrounding care and
guardianship arrangements for Child Student Visa applicants.
Where required, the child may need a Nominated Guardian in the UK who is responsible for
their care outside school arrangements and/or acts as an emergency contact.
The nominated guardian must generally be an adult who meets the Immigration Rules and
safeguarding requirements. Families may use an appropriate family member, friend or
professional guardianship organisation where permitted.
Where a Nominated Guardian is required, the application may need supporting documentation
confirming the guardianship arrangement, including the guardian's willingness and ability
to undertake the role.
Parents or legal guardians must provide appropriate consent for the child's study and
living arrangements in the UK. The application should clearly explain where the child
will live and who will be responsible for their care.
UKVI can refuse an application where it is not satisfied that suitable care, accommodation
or safeguarding arrangements are in place.
The permitted living arrangement depends on the child's circumstances and the school's
arrangements. This can include boarding accommodation provided by the school or an
appropriate arrangement with a parent, legal guardian or other permitted carer.
The intended accommodation and care arrangements should be clearly documented before the
visa application is submitted.
Applicants must normally demonstrate that sufficient funds are available to cover the
child's tuition fees and living costs in the UK.
Financial evidence may include:
The financial evidence must meet the specific requirements applicable to the Child Student
route. Incorrect dates, insufficient funds or documents that do not meet UKVI requirements
can result in refusal.
A parent may be able to accompany a child to the UK under the
Parent of a Child Student Visa
in limited circumstances.
Once the child reaches the relevant age limit, alternative care arrangements may need to
be made.
The visa may be extended where the child continues to meet the requirements and remains
enrolled at an eligible independent school.
Children under 16 cannot work on a Child Student Visa.
Children aged 16 or 17 may have limited work rights, subject to the conditions attached
to their immigration permission and restrictions applying to the type of work undertaken.
We can help families assess Child Student Visa eligibility, review the child's school and
CAS details, prepare financial evidence, check parental consent and guardianship documents,
and ensure the application is structured correctly before submission.
Get advice on eligibility, school sponsorship, financial evidence, guardianship and the
application process before submitting your visa application.
What Is the UK Child Student Visa?
Who Can Apply?
May 2025 Guardianship Changes
Nominated Guardian
Letter of Undertaking
Parental Consent
Where Can a Child Student Live?
Financial Requirements
Parent of a Child Student Visa
How Long Is the Child Student Visa?
Work Rights
Application Process
Common Problems That Can Lead to Refusal
How We Can Help
Need Help With a Child Student Visa?