Apply for UK Child Student Visa and Parent Visa Together

Sending your child to study in the United Kingdom can be one of the most important decisions you ever make. The UK is home to world-renowned independent schools that offer high-quality education, modern facilities, and a safe learning environment.

If your child is between 4 and 17 years old, there are two main UK visa routes you should know about:

Child Student visa – for the child attending school in the UK.
Parent of a Child Student visa – for a parent accompanying their child aged between 4 and 11 years.

Many families apply for both visas at the same time so the child can study while the parent stays in the UK to provide care and support. This guide explains how to apply for the UK Child Student visa and Parent visa together, the requirements for each, and tips to make your application smooth and successful.

1. What is the UK Child Student Visa?

The UK Child Student visa allows children aged 4 to 17 years to study full-time at an approved independent school in the UK. It replaced the Tier 4 (Child) visa in October 2020.

Eligibility Requirements

Your child must:

Be accepted for a full-time course at a UK independent school that is a licensed Student sponsor.
Be between 4 and 17 years old at the time of application.
Have parental or guardian consent to study in the UK.
Have enough funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the first year.

Note: Children aged 16 or 17 can also work part-time (up to 10 hours a week during term time) under this visa.

2. What is the UK Parent of a Child Student Visa?

If your child is 11 years old or younger and studying in the UK on a Child Student visa, one parent can apply for the Parent of a Child Student visa. This visa allows the parent to live in the UK and care for the child.

Key Rules for the Parent Visa

Only one parent can apply. The other parent can visit but cannot live in the UK unless they have their own visa.
You cannot work in the UK under this visa.
You cannot bring other family members except children under 12 who are also on a Child Student visa.
The parent visa expires when the child turns 12 or when their study ends (whichever comes first).

3. Financial Requirements for Both Visas

When applying for both visas, you must prove you can pay for:

Tuition fees for the first year.
Living expenses for the child and, if applicable, the accompanying parent.

Living Cost Requirements

If living with a parent: £1,560 per month (for up to 9 months) – covers both parent and child.
If living in school boarding: £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months).
If living with a relative or private foster carer: £570 per month (for up to 9 months).

Note: These funds must be in your bank account (or your parent’s/guardian’s) for at least 28 consecutive days before you apply.

4. How to Apply for the UK Child Student Visa and Parent Visa Together

Step-by-Step Process

Choose an Approved Independent School
- Look for a UKVI-licensed independent school.
- Make sure it offers the right support and facilities for your child’s age.
Secure an Unconditional Offer
- The school will assess your child’s academic level and possibly conduct an interview or entrance test.
Receive the CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
- This is a unique reference number from the school required for the visa application.
Prepare Financial Documents
- Bank statements showing required funds.
- Evidence of tuition payment (if paid in advance).
Apply for the Child Student Visa (Online)
- Apply from your home country or a country where you have legal residence.
Apply for the Parent of a Child Student Visa (Online)
- Can be done simultaneously with the child’s application.
Pay Visa Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Both visas require the IHS for NHS access in the UK.
Attend Biometric Appointment
- Provide fingerprints, photographs, and original documents.
Wait for the Decision
- Standard processing time is around 3–6 weeks, but it may vary.

5. Documents You’ll Need

For the Child Student Visa:

Current passport.
CAS from the school.
Proof of parental consent.
Proof of funds (bank statements, sponsor letters).
Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if required).

For the Parent Visa:

Current passport.
Proof you’re the child’s parent (birth certificate).
Child’s visa application or approval letter.
Proof of funds (shared or separate from the child’s).
TB test certificate (if required).

6. How Long You Can Stay in the UK

For the child: The visa covers the length of the course plus 4 months.
For the parent: Matches the child’s visa validity, but only until they turn 12.

7. Benefits of Applying for Both Visas Together

Child’s safety and emotional support – younger children adjust better with a parent present.
Streamlined process – applying together avoids repeated paperwork.
Consistent timelines – both visas will have similar start and end dates.
Peace of mind for parents – you can handle emergencies, attend school events, and help your child settle in.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not meeting the financial requirement exactly as per UKVI rules.
Applying for the Parent visa when the child is 12 or older (ineligible).
Choosing a school not on the UKVI sponsor list.
Submitting documents without certified translations (if not in English).

9. Why Choose CEMEDS for Your Visa Application

At CEMEDS, we specialise in Child Student and Parent visa applications for the UK. We:

Help you choose the right school.
Review your financial documents for compliance.
Prepare and submit your application to maximise approval chances.
Guide you through every step until your arrival in the UK.

Final Thoughts

The UK Child Student visa and Parent of a Child Student visa offer a unique opportunity for young learners and their families. By applying for both together, you ensure your child receives world-class education while staying emotionally supported.

With the right planning, financial preparation, and professional guidance, the process can be smooth and stress-free. It opens the door to a brighter academic future for your child.