Changes to the rules on foreign students
Dec 28, 2009
The UK Border Agency announced new changes to the rules on foreign students under the age of 18 who come to the UK on exchanges and educational visits.
As of 1 January 2010 non-visa nationals from countries outside the European Economic Area will be able to enter the UK without prior entry clearance. They will be allowed to apply for permission to enter at the UK port of entry for up to 6 months in an exchange or educational visit capacity to a state-maintained school, a non-maintained special school, an independent fee-paying school or an independent non fee-paying school.
The above change will not apply to applicants from countries that require compulsory entry clearance before travelling to the UK.
Applicants will need to satisfy the entry clearance or immigration officer that they:
▪ are under 18;
▪ intend to leave the UK on completion of the exchange or educational visit, which must not last for more than six months;
▪ a school as described in paragraph 46A (viii) of the Immigration Rules has approved the exchange scheme or educational visit;
▪ suitable travel, reception and care arrangements are in place for your stay here, and there are sufficient funds for your support;
▪ the care arrangements that are in place for you comply with relevant UK care requirements;
▪ the care arrangements also meet the requirements described in paragraph 46A (iv) of the Immigration Rules if you are under 16 and will be cared for full-time for more than 28 days;
▪ have a parent or guardian in your home country who is responsible for your care and who confirms that they consent to the visit and to any foster care arrangement; and
▪ are not intending to study at an educational institution that holds a Tier 4 sponsor licence or accreditation from an accreditation body approved by the UK BA, or that is inspected by a public review body.
For further details on how those changes could effect you and your specific circumstances please contact us on 0203 384 3075.
If you have an enquiry relating to your immigration status or you ability to work in the UK, we can assist you in your application. Please contact us or book an appointment.
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