Frequently asked questions - FAQ - Student Visa and Work Matters

Can I get a refund if my visa is refused?

Yes you can, provided you supply us with all necessary documents.

Can I apply for a visa with a faxed copy?

As of 22nd of February students applying for a General Student Visa (GSV) will be supplied with a unique CAS number. Students applying for a Student Visitor Visa (SVV) will be supplied with a certificate of enrolment.

How long does it take for the embassy to grant me a visa?

This is different for all embassies. Please visit www.ukvisas.gov.uk for more information on this.

Will the embassy grant me a visa if I pay only the deposit?

Embassies usually prefer to see that the course has been arranged in full, although some embassies may grant you a visa if you only paid the deposit. If you apply for a General Student Visa you will have to show you have the remaining fees in the bank in addition to the maintenance fees. If you apply for a Studen Visitor Visa you will have to demonstrate that you have the funds to pay the remainder of your fees.

What kind of help can you give while applying for visa?

The school will supply you with all necessary school letters to submit with your application. If you have an interview you may inform us of the date and time and we can fax a support letter directly to the embassy.

How will the school confirm that I am enrolled?

SVV will receive a certificate of enrolment.

ESSV will receive a certificate of enrolment

GSV (TIER4) will receive a unique CAS number

Can I apply on the border?

If you are a visa national you can not apply at the border. Some countries can get a student visitor visa for up to six months at the border, but this can not be extended if you decide you wish to study longer. Therefore it is advisable for all students to apply before travelling to the UK. Again, information on this can be found on http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/

Am I entitled to work with a student visa?

Under the new regulations that were brought in on the 3d of March students can work 10 hours per week during study time and full time during vacations.

Students who obtained their visa's before the 3d of March 2010 can still work 20 hours per week during study time and full time during vacations.

New regulations will come into force in July 2011 prohibiting all work for students studying below degree level.

How many hours per week does the British Government allow me to work?

See above.....

If I find a job, can I change the time of my class?

Yes, but you may have to pay additional fees for this.

I have a work visa now. Can I change that for the student one?

This depends on your nationality.

Can you help me find a job?

LMC does not guarantee any jobs unless you enrolled on our Work Experience Programme.

Can I change my student visa to a work visa?

You can only do this if you have completed a degree at a recognised British University.

Can I extend my student visa, once it is finished?

If you came with a TIER4 Student Visa you will be able to extend it provided you have all the necessary documents available. LMC has an OISC accredited immigration advisor to assist you with your visa application. To make an appointment contact the Registry Office.

If you have a Student Visitor Visa (SVV) or Extended Student Visitor Visa (ESVV) you are not able to extend this.

You can chose between a document checking service at £50 or a full application service at £120.

Is it true that the school needs to be British Council for the Home Office?

Under the TIER4 system the school must be on the sponsor register. A school is not able to apply to be on the sponsor register without being accredited by either British Council, ASIC or BAC.

How much do I need to pay the Home Office to extend my visa?

If you apply by post you must pay them £357, if you apply in person then the fee is £500.

I want to go to the Home Office in person, should I make an appointment or just go there?

IF you go in person it is recommended you make an appointment. Try to do this four weeks before your visa expires.

Where do I need to register with the police and do I have to do?

If you are required to register with the police it will say so in your passport. You MUST do this within 7 days. It can only be done at the Overseas Registration Office opposite Borough Tube station.

How much time do I have to register with the police?

7 days.

How long in advance do I need to apply for an extension of my visa?

It is recommended you apply 4 weeks before. However as long as your visa has not expired you can submit your application later.