Immigration Updates:

Immigration White Paper

The Immigration White Paper, released on 12 May 2025, outlines future legislative proposals without timelines and does not reflect current UK immigration law or guidance. The UK and the EU have also had early discussions on developing a Youth Experience Scheme.

However, there are no changes at this time. We'll inform you of any future legal changes that result from these proposals and discussions. 

UKCISA questions and answers

EU Youth Experience Scheme Discussion

Visa Application Fee Increase from 9 April 2025

The Student visa application fee is now £524, and the Graduate visa fee is £880.

Student Visa Financial Requirement (Living Costs)

Applicants must now show at least £1,136 each month for the programme (Up to 9-month maximum of £10,224)

Student financial requirements

Non-Visa Visitors for up to 6 months must get an ETA

Non-visa nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel. An ETA costs £16, links to your passport, and lasts 2 years. An ETA is a pre-travel clearance only. Visitors must still be able to meet the rules for entry and duration. 

Visiting the UK without a visa

Visa of 6+ months: eVisa details must be correct before travel

How to update your eVisa account

Support for conflict and humanitarian disasters:

Iran and Israel: Visa application centres (VACs)

  • The situation is being closely monitored in Israel, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, and the Palestinian Territories (Jerusalem and Ramallah) and UKCISA are working with VFS Global to keep customers updated on UK visa services.
  • The VAC in Tel Aviv reopened from Monday 30 June 2025.
  • The VAC in Tehran reopened from Tuesday 1 July 2025.
  • The VACs in Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, the Palestinian Territories and Egypt remain open.
  • Customers in all markets (globally) who wish to keep their passport while they await their visa decision can choose to pay for VFS’ ‘Keep My Passport While Applying’ (KMPWA) service. Customers are advised to wait until they have received their visa and documents before booking travel, and only to do so if it is safe. For up-to-date information, please regularly check the VFS Global website as it will display the latest information on the status of the VACs in the region

VFS Iran News

VFS Israel News

New Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) Scheme

Ukrainian nationals in the UK under Ukraine schemes may qualify for the new UPE extension scheme, opened on 4 February 2025. Applications are free, online, and must be submitted within 28 days of visa expiry. If approved, you can live, work, and study in the UK for an additional 18 months.

Ukraine Permission Extension overview

Free information sessions from the Scottish Refugee Council

Free Immigration Advice from Settled

Asylum Claim or Refugee Status

The Scottish Refugee Council offers advice and a free helpline. Their website also offers translation options.

Information for asylum seekers and refugees: Scottish Refugee Council

Support Groups: Scottish Refugee Council

University of Sanctuary support

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

A red banner saying welcome

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

EFI external - CAM

If your UK immigration permission exceeds 6 months, you will need to get a UKVI online account to access and securely share your online eVisa record

careers students

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

A passport, compass and money

How to obtain a CAS number for your Student visa application

A family on the Meadows

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

University crest on a glass door

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