Student immigration the basics
Straightforward advice on when you need a visa and when you don't.
Do I need a visa?
You can use the UK Visas and immigration (UKVI) online tool to help you check if you need a UK visa.
What type of immigration permission do I need?
The type of visa/immigration permission you will require to study will depend on your course and future plans.
Student visa - You can apply for a Student visa to study a range of courses whilst if you are aged 16 or over. Students studying at Reading will have working rights you would like to extend your visa from within the UK.
Short-term student visa - You can apply for this visa if you are going to study an English language course that is between 6 and 11 months in duration. You cannot apply to extend or switch from this visa from within the UK.
Visitor – You can only come to the UK as a visitor to study if your course is less than six months in length or you are studying a course by distance learning. You usually cannot apply to extend or switch from this visa from within the UK.
Other – If you already hold a visa not listed above for the UK, please contact the International Student Advisory Team to check if your current visa permits study.
Frequently asked questions
Lost BRP's should be reported to the UKVI even if they have expired. Please report your BRP as lost through the gov.uk website or contact us directly at immigration@reading.ac.uk.
Many students enjoy having family and friends visit. It is important they apply for the visitor visa (if required) and follow the correct procedure. For further information on applying for visitor visas, please visit our dedicated Essentials pages.
Please be mindful that visitors are not entitled to use the NHS services, therefore we recommend you inform your guest that they should consider purchasing insurance before travelling. If they don't purchase insurance and require medical/hospital treatment in the UK, they would be charged for treatment. Failure to pay for these costs would result in their future visa applications being subject to refusal.