Re-entering for work or further studies

If you leave the UK at any time during your stay, permission to re-enter will always be the at the discretion of the UK Border Officer that you may meet with when you arrive. The officer will normally check to ensure that you still meet the conditions of your current visa.

UK Visas and Immigration(UKVI) has instructed immigration officers that students holding Tier 4/Student visas should be allowed to re-enter the UK during the 'wrap-up' period after their studies are complete.  However, you should be able to explain why you are returning, for example, to attend graduation, to switch to a work visa, or for further study.

Documentation

This could be an offer of employment, or a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) or an unconditional offer letter for a further programme of studies. We advise that you carry evidence of your new course or employment, such as a print out of a CAS statement or offer letter. You should also carry evidence to show that you can afford your new course of study and the living expenses (such as a bank statement).

Where you have an offer of further studies or work in the UK, you should be able to explain that you intend to apply before your current immigration expires and to evidence how you meet all relevant requirements for the immigration route you intend to apply under. 

Further information

For further information about application processes and required documents for applying for work category visas, please refer to our working in the UK after your studies page.

Working in the UK After Studies

There remain a very small number of cases over a period of years where people have still been refused re-entry.

If you experience any problems at immigration control please contact us directly.

Contact us through our enquiry form