New and enhanced visa system for Indian students made it easy and flexible for Indian students to study in the UK. The move is one part of the UK government’s broader effort to accept international students and make sure they excel in school and work. With its partner VFS Global, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has made several changes to the Tier 4 student visa process.
Increased Opportunities for Indian Students
Almost 50,000 Tier 4 Student Visas have been granted to Indians in the year ending March 2020 (136% more than last year). This reflects Indian students becoming an increasingly important part of the UK economy and society.
New Flexibility for Students
UK Visas and Immigration also has new regulations that make it easier for students to apply for visas such as later applications. That means students can enroll before they apply for a visa online. Some of the big news:
- Graduate Route: From the summer of 2021, if you have studied in the UK as an undergraduate or Master’s student, you can remain in the UK for up to two years longer to find work or do work experience. Ph.D. students are allowed in for three years. Even foreign students who enter the course online may also take the Graduate Route provided they are based in the UK by 6 April 2021 and finish their final semester in the UK.
- Health and Safety: Due to the Coronavirus pandemic UKVI has introduced safety measures at the visa application counter. These are temperature inspections, social distancing, and frequent surface disinfection for applicants’ safety. Centres started reopening in July 2020, and various centers opening across India like Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, and more.
- Mobile Visa Service: To make the visa process a bit simpler UKVI introduced an On-Demand Mobile Visa Service. You can apply for your visa and biometrics online using this service from your house. Your passport is then sent to you by courier if your visa is granted.
Tier 4 Visa Requirements
You’ll need these basic details to qualify for a Tier 4 Student Visa:
- Admission Offer: You should have an unconditional offer of a course from a UK university or school that is a Tier 4 licensed sponsor.
- 3) Proof of Funds: Make sure you can afford your course fees and housing in the UK. When you have dependents (like your spouse or kids under 18, you will have to prove that you can take care of them too).
- English Proficiency: You will have to prove that you speak, read, and write in English. That can be through your degrees or an English language exam.
- Healthcare Surcharge: You have to pay the healthcare surcharge for you and any dependents, and will be entitled to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your time in the UK.
The new Tier 4 Student Visa system for Indian students who wish to study in the UK gives you more flexibility and support. Since the introduction of the Graduate Route, now students can also get valuable work experience once they’ve graduated.
If you’re an Indian student studying in the UK and want support with completing your visa, Law and Visas can assist you at every step. We have UK student visa immigration lawyers who will help you with a smooth and successful application for a UK student visa. Contact Law and Visas today for help with a Tier 4 Student Visa.
