Amongst all UK visas, a child student visa allows the longest duration of stay in the UK (for those under 16). Children anywhere from 4 to 17 years old can apply for this visa – whether for primary or secondary education.
If your child plans to remain in the UK for their entire education, they will need to extend their visa more than once. In this article, you will find out when a child student visa expires, how to extend it and whether parents can remain with their children throughout.
Before you jump in, learn more about child student visas in our complete series:
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- Child student visa UK – Eligibility requirements
- Parent of a child student visa – What you need to know
- How to apply for a UK child student visa
When Does a Child Student Visa Expire?
A child student visa will expire at different lengths depending on the age your child applies. If your child is:
- Under 16: They can stay in the UK throughout their course of study – up to six years. Your child will also have an additional four months after the course has ended to finish post-studies.
- 16 or 17: They can remain in the UK for the course length – up to three years. Your child has four months to finish remaining post-studies or prepare for further education (student visa required after this point).
Can You Extend a Child Student Visa?
Yes, you can extend your child’s student visa three months before a new course starts. To do so, your child must already be in the UK on a child student visa. You also need an unconditional offer and Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) on a course with a licensed student sponsor.
If your child has completed primary education (ages 5-11), you must extend your visa to carry on to secondary education. This level of education lasts 6 years and results in GCSE qualifications.
Further and higher education, like A-levels and degrees, requires a child student or student visa, depending on the age of your child at the time.
Can You Extend a Parent of Child Student Visa?
A parent of child student visa can only be extended if you and your child meet the eligibility requirements.
Your visa will expire after your child turns 12 or until their visa ends, whichever comes first. You cannot extend it beyond this point, meaning you will have to return to your home country.
As a parent, it can seem daunting to leave your child behind in another country. Fortunately, the UK has a fantastic collection of independent schools offering boarding facilities. Or, your child can live with a close relative or family friend. You can rest assured knowing that your child is in good hands. This time apart will also improve your child’s independence, which will prove invaluable should they move on to further study.
Need to Extend Your Visa?
Extending your child’s student visa can be just as stressful as the first time you applied. Our immigration consultants will take care of everything for you so your application goes smoothly.
We can also help those eager to study for longer by converting them from child student visas to student visas. Contact our team today to learn more.
