UK Student Visa

If you’re planning to study full-time in the UK for more than 6 months, you need to acquire a UK Student Visa. This UK Visa, which has now replaced the Tier 4 General Student Visa, can be a favorable choice if you’re looking to advance your education or acquire relevant credentials for your field of study. Once you have secured a spot at an eligible UK educational institution, you will be permitted to travel to the United Kingdom from Thailand for this purpose.

Continue reading to find out how to apply for the UK Student Visa from Thailand and all the important information you should know.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Student Visa

To apply for a UK Student Visa, you will need to satisfy the following eligibility requirements:

• You must be at least 16 years old
• You have to be enrolled in a full-time, part-time, or English language course, or a foundation program (for postgraduate doctors and dentists) at a UK-based institution that is a licensed student sponsor*
• You need to demonstrate that your English proficiency skills are at GCSE level**
• You must provide proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your course fees and living expenses in the UK
• You must provide your education credentials or relevant certificates showing that you completed your education either at a secondary school or college level

*NOTE: A licensed student sponsor is an educational institution that can sponsor their students for the UK Student Visa. They will provide a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) as proof of enrollment.

**NOTE: You need to meet a certain level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale, depending on what type of course you are enrolled in:

• If studying something at degree level: at least a B2 on the CEFR scale.
• If studying something below degree level: at least a B1 on the CEFR scale.

UK Student Visa Requirements for Application

After qualifying for a UK Student Visa, you will then need to gather some documents to start the UK student visa application process. You need to provide the following items:

• Completed online UK Student Visa application
• Valid passport with at least 1 blank page remaining
• Letter of acceptance confirming that you have been accepted into a full-time study program in the UK (such as a CAS)
• Evidence that you have fulfilled the English language requirements (such as a CEFR certificate)
• Proof that you meet the financial requirements (such as a bank statement)
• Education credentials or relevant certification (such as proof you completed your studies at GCSE level)
• Letter of consent provided by your parents or guardian(s), if you are between the ages of 16 and 17

UK Student Visa Restrictions

While the UK Student Visa allows you to study and live in the UK, there are specific guidelines that you have to abide by. Failing to comply with any of these regulations risks you getting removed from your education program or deported.

• You cannot bring family members with you if your course is less than six months long or below the level of a foundation or undergraduate degree.
• If you are studying below degree level and your course includes a work placement, you can work as long as the educational institution you are enrolled at is recognized as a "highly trusted sponsor."*
• If you bring any family members with you, they cannot work if you are enrolled in certain courses.

*NOTE: A highly trusted sponsor involves a school or university that has greater freedom in enrolling international students into their programs. Only a few top-tier educational institutions in the UK are awarded this designation.

Working Under the UK Student Visa

As a UK Student Visa Holder, you also have the option of working during your studies, enabling you to gather some work experience, learn more about the workforce, and pay for your living costs.

• With a UK Student Visa, you can work part-time during the academic year while studying.
• During the holidays, you can work for a full-time job.
• If your course includes work placements, you are permitted to use the program as a way to gain more valuable hands-on experience in your field of study.

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa from Thailand

To apply for a UK Student Visa, you need to submit an online application, which can be done by accessing the UK government website. You must apply for it at least 6 months before starting your course if applying from Thailand, but only 3 months if you are applying for the visa in the UK.

With the application ready, it will be sent to the UK VFS in Bangkok if you apply for a UK student visa from Thailand. It will then be forwarded to UKVI (UK Visa and Immigration) where the application will be reviewed. Once approved, you can collect your passport at the Bangkok UK VFS in person or receive it at your address via a courier service.

What Siam Legal Can Do For You

If you want to apply for a UK Student Visa, reach out to Siam Legal’s UK Visa team for further assistance.

With over 20 years in operation in Thailand, our team has the knowledge and expertise to ensure you can obtain your UK Student Visa as quickly and smoothly as possible. We’ll provide you with professional advice, thoroughly review and prepare your application, and handle the submission of your application so you can minimize the risk of delays or rejection.

Our UK Student Visa application services provide you with:

• Comprehensive review of your own personal and educational background to confirm your eligibility for the application
• In-person or online consultation sessions to address concerns and answer any unanswered questions
• A detailed checklist of all required documents, when requested
• In-person preparation and review of your application if desired
• Submission of your visa application to the UK VFS on your behalf
• Connecting with immigration authorities for updates on your application
• Quick and easy phone support through our exclusive hotline

Contact Siam Legal today to get started on applying for your UK Student Visa and secure your path to a Western education experience without fear of immigration issues holding you back.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I receive a document checklist for the UK Student Visa?

Yes. If you want a detailed checklist highlighting all the mandatory documents for a UK Student Visa, then reach out to Siam Legal and we can provide you with one.

What is the processing time for a UK Student Visa in Thailand?

It takes 3 weeks on average for you to receive your UK Student Visa in Thailand. The processing times vary based on many factors such as your nationality or whether you are completing your UK student visa application abroad. If you are applying for a UK Student Visa outside the United Kingdom, it takes 3 weeks on average for you to receive your visa. If you are applying inside the UK, then it takes 8 weeks to obtain it.

Is there a way to reapply after my application is rejected?

Yes, there is a possibility that you will be able to reapply for the UK Student Visa after your application has been rejected by the UK immigration authorities, depending on the reason given to you in the refusal letter. If you received this notification, reach out to Siam Legal’s foreign visa team for assistance in reapplying as efficiently as possible.

Do I need to provide details of my own savings account?

Yes, you need to provide evidence that you have enough funds to support your stay and to cover the fees for your education. If you lack the available funds, you can appoint your parents or a guardian to sponsor you, or utilize a scholarship to satisfy the financial requirement. You can either provide details of your savings account or proof of sponsorship from your parents or another party who will be funding your education.

Do I need to provide proof of accommodation if I do not have a UK address yet?

As an incoming student, you can rent out a unit or stay in a school dormitory. If you have not arranged for a place to stay yet and paid for it, then you can provide the address of the educational institution you will be studying at for the application.

I have not been accepted by the educational institute yet, can I apply for a visa?

No, you will not be able to apply for the UK Student Visa yet. Proof of acceptance from a school, university, or other valid educational institution is mandatory and you will need to provide an enrollment letter as part of your application.

Contact Siam Legal for UK Visa Services

Connecting with Siam Legal is like having a dependable friend to guide you through your UK academic journey.

Our goal is to minimize your stress and provide support that ensures you can get your UK student visa as quickly and with as little hassle as possible. Our experienced foreign visa team offers knowledgeable advice and meticulous application preparation service, maximizing your likelihood of visa approval and boosting your confidence throughout the whole process.

Contact Siam Legal today to apply for your UK student visa smoothly and stress-free.