Heading to the UK as an EU citizen?
Don’t worry and don’t let VISA issues put you off your stride! Unlock here with us all the steps you must know before entering the UK.
As you might already know, the United Kingdom decided to withdraw from the European Union, of which it had been a Member State since 1973. The UK left the European Union on 31 January 2020. On 1 January 2021, the UK applied the immigration system. It is a points-based system intended equally for EU and non-EU citizens, with the target of controlling whoever enters the UK based on skills and qualifications. For instance, they check the job offer, the skill levels, the level of English, and the salary. Visa applicants usually need to score at least 70 points to pass.
International students have to meet challenges to go to the UK; there’s misinformation and they have no idea where to look or what to do. Fortunately, online resources (or this article 😉 can provide guidance for young people who desire to study in the United Kingdom.
You need to be suitable and respect specific requirements so as to work or study in the UK from 1 January 2021. You also must pass different checks and there are several steps in front of you.
Let’s start with the different types of VISAS.
People who visit the UK for up to 6 months have the possibility to participate in a wide range of activities, such as tourism, visiting family and friends, short-term study, job interviews, and other business appointments. You still need to apply for a different type of VISA: the Student Visitor Visa.
Students studying in the UK for more than 6 months must apply for a Tier 4 General Student Visa. You must show that you’ve been accepted at a recognized educational institution, have sufficient funds for yourself and for your course, test your level of English, and demonstrate that you genuinely intend to study in the UK.
Other types of Visas include Family Visas, Skilled Worker Visas, Global Talent Visas, Health and Care Worker Visas…
Step by step
For Students
- Choose the right Visa
- Register online and demonstrate that you meet the relevant score
- Verify your identity through the ‘UK Immigration” app or visit a Visa center.
- Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Wait!
- Proof of current English level
- Receive Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
- Complete the application form
- Check all the required documents: passport, CAS, TB test, proof of funds…
What do I know and real-life examples
I’ve been abroad many times and I know that some places are very strict about entering their country and about immigration rules. I’ve been to the US and I’m pretty conscious of the severe guidelines authorities need to follow at the border.
I’ve also already been to the UK, just for tourism for a few days. As an Italian citizen, I had to bring my passport, but I didn’t have to do anything more.
One example that fits this topic perfectly is the example of my brother. My brother started studying in England two years ago for university. Naturally, he had to apply for a Student Visa since he knew he would’ve stayed there for longer than 6 months. Fortunately, he had references that helped him complete all the steps of the Visa application. He had to pass a test and then receive his Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which contained codes he needed to insert into the application form.
After that, came the hardest part: waiting. He had to wait, wait, and wait until the Visa was ready and he could book his flight for the UK.
I still remember how anxious he felt after completing the test, waiting for the Visa to be approved. Everything went well in the end, but the stress of waiting and the uncertainty were challenges he had to overcome.
It went great, though!
I’ve also heard of some European students who were taken aback by misinformation. They believed that they could still study in the UK without a visa. This misunderstanding caused them to have delay in the Visa process because they realized too late their need of Visa.
What I’ve understood from this
- Take it in advance and plan early. The key for this process is preparation. Check whether you need a visa in advance and, if you have to, do it early. Applying in advance will help you live the months before departure with more relaxation. As a matter of fact, my brother applied for a Visa not so early so he couldn’t go to England when the lessons started.
- Control, control and control! Make sure you have everything and control all your documents at least a 100 times. It’s fundamental to be careful and to be responsible. Now you’ve grown up and you have the duty of taking care of your personal items.
- Adapt and go ahead. There are obstacles to go through because of the increasing of problems after Brexit. You may feel disoriented, but the importance is to stay informed and adapt.
- Confidence at the border. When the border office asks about your documents, be confident because you have everything you need! Remember: don’t count your chickens before they’ve hatched!
- Get help if you need. Don’t hesitate to ask for information. It’s significant to be aware of all the documents that are required. There’s no shame in doing that. It is Important to have someone who is by your side: rely on the right people and on the right sites. Seek help from a visa expert or someone who’s well informed about this topic.
- Be patient! The wait for a Visa to be ready depends on the type of Visa you need and when you did apply. Don’t worry too much: you just have to be patient and have to remind that there’s an end.
In conclusion
As you’ve seen, Visa application can be challenging and have dire processes, but it is not impossible. With the right planning , controlling documents multiple times, and seeking help, I can assure the procedure will go easily. All you need is paying attention, trusting the right people, and doing everything you capable to. Because of Brexit’s rigorous rules, it is common that applicants tend to be disoriented and confused. Remember that you’re not the first student doing that and there were many other who went through it. The importance is to enjoy the real experience abroad, that comes after this harsh operation.
You’re not alone and if you need a reference, we’re here for it.
Keep it up!