Advice on immigration and working in the UK
You can find a lot of useful information here on UK immigration procedures and entry clearance requirements. We’ve also included information if you wish to work in the UK during and after your course. If you are planning to bring your family to the UK read about what they are entitled to.
Entry Clearance, which is like a student visa, is mandatory for US citizens who:
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will enter the UK as students on courses of more than six months; |
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wishes to work in the UK, including unpaid and volunteer work; regardless of the length of their course |
US citizens who will be studying in the UK for programs of six months or less may be stamped as "Student Visitors" on arrival and do not need Entry Clearance. Please note that Student Visitors are prohibited from working, including unpaid and volunteer work; are not eligible to apply for an extension of their stay; and may not switch into another immigration category.
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Questions about Entry Clearance? Read through our Visa FAQs. |
Our First Steps guide will help you prepare for obtaining entry clearance. It summarises immigration policy and procedures, helps you answer questions on the visa application form and tells you what to do if you experience difficulties. Download or view this guide here (180KB). This link is to a PDF file which you will need Adobe Reader to view.
The new improved UKvisas website provides quality visa guidance and information to students and those wanting to work in the UK. Application forms and guidance for students are available to download at: www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en
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