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Visa and Immigration Advice
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about immigration and visa issues.
Before coming to the UK
Anyone entering the UK must comply with the UK immigration rules. Students from certain countries have to apply for a visa before they leave their home country. Remember, this can take quite a long time and Embassies can get very busy, so start doing this now. Read more about Before coming to the UK »
How do I extend my visa?
Here, at the International Student Centre (ISC), we are happy to check through your Tier 4 student visa application form before you send it to the Home Office UK Border Agency (UKBA). However, we expect you to attend one of the ‘Student Visa Extension Workshops’ before coming to have your forms checked. Read more about How do I extend my visa? »
I have changed my course/university - who do I need to inform?
It is very important to inform the Home Office if you change your course, institution or if you return home. Read more about I have changed my course/university - who do I need to inform? »
I want to go home for a holiday, what do I need to do?
You should only go on holiday during University holiday periods. If you take time off during your studies, you risk violating your visa and may have immigration difficulties in the future. Read more about I want to go home for a holiday, what do I need to do? »
I want to travel to another country, what do I need to do?
It is very important you make sure you have enough time. For residents of some countries it can take many weeks to process a visa application - this can be the case for a transit visa as well, so it really is extremely important that you plan well in advance of travelling. Read more about I want to travel to another country, what do I need to do? »
I've lost my passport
You should contact the Police to inform them that your passport has been lost/stolen. They will give you a crime report number – make sure you write this somewhere safe as you will need it. Read more about I've lost my passport »
Immigration Requirements for International Students (Tier 4)
Immigration requirements that International Students need to follow to comply with their Tier 4 visa. Read more about Immigration Requirements for International Students (Tier 4) »
My parents want to visit me, what can I do to help them get their visas?
Staffordshire University cannot invite family of students to visit. However, we can give you all the information you need to invite your family yourself. Read more about My parents want to visit me, what can I do to help them get their visas? »
My passport is expiring soon, what should I do?
You need to contact your country’s embassy to ask how to get a new passport or renew your current passport. Read more about My passport is expiring soon, what should I do? »
What is a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa allows you to travel to one or more of these countries on the same visa. You could visit as many of the 24 countries as you wanted in one journey which can last up to 3 months. Read more about What is a Schengen visa? »
What is registering with the police and how do I do it?
After you arrive in the United Kingdom, you may have to register your stay with the police. Read more about What is registering with the police and how do I do it? »
What should I do if I need to replace my ID card?
If you are issued with a replacement card, the expiry date on your new card will be the same as the one on your old card. Your old card will be cancelled and, if available, will be destroyed by the Home Office. Read more about What should I do if I need to replace my ID card? »
Working during your studies
If you have student immigration permission under Tier 4, that allows you to undertake employment, you can work up to 20 hours a week during term-time and full-time during your holidays, a work placement or an internship. Read more about Working during your studies »
Working after your studies
There are a number of options available once you finish your studies at Staffordshire University, but one of the most popular options for students at present, is to switch visa categories into Tier 1 Post-Study Work. Read more about Working after your studies »
