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What to do if you need a visa to study
As an international student, you'll need a visa to study in the UK. There are a few different types of visa available from the UK government, but the type you would normally need is a Student visa.
On this visa, you can study on full-time courses as well as part-time postgraduate courses (as long as they are Level 7 or above on the UK government's Regulated Qualification Framework).
On these pages, you'll also find visa advice on extra steps you might need to take, how you can travel to other European locations on your visa, and how you can invite friends and family to visit you in the UK.
Important E-visa information
UKVI is changing the way that students prove their immigration status in the UK. Physical documents such as BRP cards are being replaced by digital immigration status known as an eVisa.
What will happen?
- You will need to create a UKVI account before your BRP expires on 31 December 2024
- Your immigration status will be held within this account
- You can use this account to view your online status and share it with others – such as the University, your employer or your landlord
When will this happen?
- UKVI aims to replace your physical documents with a new digital system by the end of 2024
What do I need to do?
- Go to the Home Office Website to create your UKVI eVisa account
Things to know:
- You will need to follow this process if your BRP card has an end date of 31 December 2024, but your course continues beyond this date and your visa has been issued for longer
- UKVI will not ask you for money to set up an eVisa account. If you have any concerns that the email you receive is not genuine, contact the International Student Advisers
- The UKCISA website also has helpful information about applying for an eVisa
It is more important than ever to keep all correspondence (emails and letters) you receive relating to your visa. This is so that you will be able to cross-check your eVisa with all the other information you have about the decision that was made in your case.
It is important that you regularly check and keep all emails and other correspondence from UKVI (Home Office). You should also regularly check your ‘spam’ folder to see if emails from UKVI have gone there. Making regular checks is important while you are waiting for a decision from UKVI about your visa application.
Step by step guides to help you:
UKVI have created some step by step video guides explaining what an eVisa is, how to access your eVisa and use it.
If you can't find the information you need, there are various other sources of help:
- Contact our specialist international student team about visa advice at student-visa@port.ac.uk or +44(0) 2392 84 5430. Alternatively, see our UKVI Compliance information.
- If you are using a representative or agent to help you apply to the University of Portsmouth, they can help you with your visa application
- UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website
- UK Government visa advice
Student visas
All you need to know about student visas and the UKVI Student Route, including applying from the UK, from your own country, e-Visas and BRP cards, credibility interviews, and information for EU, EEA and Swiss students.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Find out how to receive your CAS, including the steps you need to take to ensure it is processed.
Post-study work visas
If you want to work in the UK after you graduate, find out what post-study visa you need and the visa requirements.
Exchange and study abroad visas
Visa information for Exchange and Study Abroad students about your student visa and joining us in the UK.
Schengen visas
If you're from outside the European Union, discover how you can travel inside the EU during your time in the UK by applying for Schengen Visa.
Visitor visas
If you're thinking of inviting friends and family to visit you during your studies, they may need a visitor visa. Find out what you need to do to apply for one, and download a sample invitation letter.
Visa FAQs
Read the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about getting your visa to study at the University of Portsmouth.
Academic Tech Approval Scheme
Read more about the ATAS and whether you need to apply for this as part of your visa.
Graduation visas
If you have family living outside the United Kingdom who'd like to attend your graduation ceremony, you may need to organise a visa for them.
Extend your student visa
If you need to extend your visa to cover your current course, or you're joining a new course, you must extend your student visa to study in the UK.
