Child Student visa
For children aged 4 to 17 attending an independent fee-paying school in the UK.
The Child Student visa is a UK study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~£524 application; IHS ~£776/year (child rate)) and processing time (~3 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Child Student visa is for
For children aged 4 to 17 attending an independent fee-paying school in the UK.
Does not directly lead to settlement; switch to Student route afterwards.
Child Student visa - eligibility criteria
- Aged 4 to 17 at the time of application
- Place at a licensed independent fee-paying school
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Parental or guardian consent and care arrangements
- Enough money for fees and living costs
Child Student visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Child Student visa (United Kingdom) is ~£524 application; IHS ~£776/year (child rate), with an indicative processing time of ~3 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the UK |
| Length of stay | Length of course (up to 6 years depending on age) |
| Work rights | Limited work for those aged 16+ only |
| Study rights | Full-time study at the sponsoring independent school |
| Government fee | ~£524 application; IHS ~£776/year (child rate) |
| Processing time | ~3 weeks |
| Route to PR | Does not directly lead to settlement; switch to Student route afterwards. |
Pathway & next steps
Does not directly lead to settlement; switch to Student route afterwards.
Many applicants also compare Student · Student visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Child Student visa pitfalls we fix
Child Student visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Child Student visa cost?
The Child Student visa government fee is ~£524 application; IHS ~£776/year (child rate). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at GOV.UK before applying.
How long does the Child Student visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Child Student visa lead to permanent residence?
Does not directly lead to settlement; switch to Student route afterwards.
Can I work on the Child Student visa?
Work rights: Limited work for those aged 16+ only.
Who can apply for the Child Student visa?
For children aged 4 to 17 attending an independent fee-paying school in the UK.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority