Immigration, Simplified
Parent of a Child Student Visa
The Parent of a Child Student Visa allows one parent to accompany and care for a child studying at an approved independent school in the United Kingdom. Designed for parents of children aged 4 to 11, this visa enables you to stay in the UK while your child completes their education, provided you meet the relevant immigration requirements. Our experienced immigration advisers offer expert guidance to help you prepare a complete and successful application.
Official UK Government Updates
For the latest guidance, eligibility requirements, and visa regulations, we recommend checking the official UK Government website before submitting your application.
Core Eligibility
To qualify for this visa, you must meet several specific criteria:
- Child’s Age: The child must be between 4 and 11 years old at the time of your application.
- School Type: The child must be enrolled at an independent, fee-paying school with a valid Student sponsor license.
- Single Parent Rule: Only one parent can be in the UK on this route. The other parent must remain living outside the UK.
- Intent: You must demonstrate that you maintain a home abroad and intend to leave the UK when the visa expires or the child turns 12.
Permitted vs. Prohibited Activities
While in the UK on this visa, your primary role is to care for your child.
- You can: Live with your child and bring other siblings along if they also hold a valid Child Student visa.
- Full-time and below degree level (RQF levels 3–5) with at least 15 hours of daytime study per week.
- You cannot: Work (paid or unpaid), start a business, or study. You also cannot apply for public funds (benefits) or make the UK your permanent home.
2026 Financial Requirements
You must prove you can support yourself and your child without working. The funds must be held in a regulated bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.
| Requirement | Amount (per month) | Max Calculation |
| First Child + Parent | £1,560 | Up to 9 months (£14,040) |
| Each Additional Child | £625 | Up to 9 months (£5,625) |
- Exemption: If you have already been living in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, you typically do not need to provide financial evidence for an extension.
2026 Application Costs
- Visa Fee: The application fee is currently £682.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): You must pay £1,035 per year for each year of your stay to access the National Health Service (NHS).
Duration and Extensions
- Length of Stay: Your visa is usually granted to match your child’s visa or until the child turns 12, whichever is sooner.
- Turning 12: Once your child turns 12, the Home Office expects them to either move into a boarding school arrangement or be cared for by a UK-based guardian. You will be required to leave the UK or apply for a different visa from abroad.
- Switching: You cannot switch from this visa to any other visa category while inside the UK. If you wish to stay in a different capacity (such as a Skilled Worker), you must leave and apply from your home country.
Parent of a Child Student Visa
Expert consultancy support to secure your Parent of a Child Student visa smoothly and on time.
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Important Information About Our Fees
Professional Service Fees: Our quoted fees cover our professional immigration advice and application support only. They do not include UK Government application fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), biometric appointment charges, translation services, or any other third-party costs.
Personalised Fee Estimates: All prices provided are intended as estimates and may vary depending on the complexity of your case, the level of support required, the volume of documentation, and any urgent processing requests.
Disclaimer: All quoted service fees are exclusive of VAT where applicable.
Expert UK visa and immigration services designed to simplify your application, provide real-time progress updates, and maximise your chances of success.
