If the UK is your dream destination for studying abroad, you will have to obtain a Tier 4 visa to get started with your international education journey. This visa option specifically applies to individuals from outside the European Economic Area to travel as a student to the country. Much about the Tier 4 visa has changed this year. If you want to pursue your study abroad venture in 2021-22, here are the facts you must know about Tier 4 visa.
RENAMED AS “STUDENT VISA”
The Tier 4 Route was officially replaced by the Student Route in October 2020. The current Student Visa hinges on a points-based immigration system, which is much similar to the Australian and Canadian models. It means your transition from a student to a worker or permanent resident will be much easier now. The Student Route takes you to the Graduate Route, which permits you to work in the country for up to three years after completing your degree.
WORKING IN THE UK WITH THE STUDENT VISA
If you want to work part-time as an international student in the UK, the Tier 4 visa permits you to do it. But you will have to follow some rules for the same. You have to be over the age of 16 years to work legitimately. Further, you can work up to 20 hours every week during the term and even longer hours during vacation. It is vital to know these rules and follow them. The UK Home Office officials are stern about work and study violations. You can face dire consequences such as being evicted from the university and the UK for breaching the visa rules.
TIER 4 VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
Applying for your Student Visa on time is absolutely necessary to make your journey smooth and seamless. Ideally, you should initiate the process six months before the beginning of your course. The process starts with admission to a UK university, which you must validate with the Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies document. It makes sense to pick a university that is a licensed sponsor of the UK government.
You can apply in two ways. Firstly, you can submit your application with biometric information at a visa application centre nearby. It is an expedited process as you obtain a biometric residence permit. The other option is to scan the required documents to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) using the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app. You can expect an update within three weeks.
Another aspect to understand about the UK Student Visa is the cost. The application fee is 348 pounds, while you will also have to shell out 470 pounds as an annual Immigration Health Surcharge. With the latter, you have access to the National Health Service. You can also get vaccinated through the NHS.
Now that you know all about the UK Tier 4 visa, it is time to apply for one. Get started with the process on time to get a step ahead with your study abroad dream.
If you are considering studying abroad why don’t you discuss your prospects and opportunities with experts at Lurnable’s dedicated study abroad counselling division LurnPathways?
