Immigration Updates

Recent immigration changes

26 March 2026:  Visa brake on UK Student visa for some nationalities

New Student visa applications from outside the UK by nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan will be refused from 26 March 2026. Current students in the UK with a valid Student visa are not affected.

Visa brake: information for students

08 April 2026:  Visa fee increases

Visa application fees will increase from 08 April 2026.  From this date, a Student visa application will cost £558 and a Graduate visa application will cost £937.

Visa fees from 08 April 2026

01 January 2027:  Graduate visa length

The Graduate visa will be shortened from two years to 18 months for undergraduate and postgraduate taught graduates. PhD and doctoral graduates will still receive three years.

Applications made before 1 January 2027 are unaffected by this change.

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What to expect and consider when traveling to the UK for study

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International students must complete the International Check-in to confirm their right to study in the UK

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Discover the suitable visa route for your studies at Edinburgh and how to meet the requirements.

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How to obtain a CAS number for your Student visa application

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Check if you can bring your partner and children (under 18) on the Student Dependant route

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Information on the EU Settlement Scheme and the EU IHS reimbursement scheme

Immigration advice

Submit an online enquiry form to the Student Immigration Service for assistance

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Advice and guidance for University of Edinburgh staff on working with international students