UK Government Sets Child Student Visa Duration Rules

The UK government has clarified the duration of stay for foreign children applying for a Child Student visa, which is determined by their age at the time of application. Children who apply before turning 16 are allowed to remain in the UK for the full length of their course, capped at six years, and receive an additional four months after their course concludes before their visa expires.

For applicants aged 16 or 17, the maximum stay is shorter, limited to three years, but they also receive the same four-month grace period post-study. The four-month period is automatically included in the visa duration.

Additionally, visa holders can travel to the UK up to one month before their course begins, but cannot arrive earlier than the start date indicated on their visa. The overall duration of stay combines the course length and the four additional months, with the maximum course length differing based on the applicant's age.