What you need to know? The UK Home Office has announced changes to the maintenance requirements for Student visa applicants. Starting from 2nd January 2025, students applying for a UK Student visa will need to meet new financial thresholds. These changes are particularly important for prospective international students, as they impact the amount of money you’ll need to demonstrate for living expenses while studying in the UK.
Key changes to maintenance requirements From 2nd January 2025, the maintenance funds students need to show in their visa applications will increase to the following:
- Students studying in London: £1,483 per month.
- Students studying outside London: £1,136 per month.
How does this impact you? If you’re planning to apply for a Student visa on or after 2nd January 2025, you’ll need to show proof that you have sufficient funds to cover living expenses for up to nine months of your course. This means:
- For students in London: You will need to demonstrate up to £13,347 in maintenance funds.
- For students outside London: You will need to show up to £10,224.
These changes are designed to ensure that students have enough money to live comfortably during their studies, given the rising cost of living across the UK.
What about student dependents?
The UKVI has also indicated that the maintenance requirements for dependents accompanying Student visa holders are currently under review. As of now, there hasn’t been a confirmed outcome, but it’s expected that further updates will be provided in due course. If you plan to bring dependents, it's essential to stay informed about these forthcoming changes to avoid any last-minute surprises.
When do these changes take effect? The new maintenance requirements will apply to all Student visa applications made on or after 2nd January 2025. If you're planning to submit your application before that date, the existing maintenance thresholds will still apply. However, if you're applying on or after 2nd January 2025, be prepared to meet the new financial criteria.
Preparing for your application Given these changes, it’s crucial to ensure that your finances are in order well ahead of your visa application. If you’re aiming to study in the UK, now is the time to:
1. Review your finances and ensure you have the required amount saved.
2. Gather your documents - bank statements or other financial documents will need to show that you’ve had the required funds in your account for 28 consecutive days before submitting your visa application.
3. Stay informed about potential changes to the maintenance requirements for dependents if you’re applying with family members.
For more information or to discuss a visa application under the Student route or any other route please contact us at info@viscapital.co.uk and/or +44(0)7827 889288, or book an appointment for a telephone call using the calendar on our website. We can guide applicants through the complexities of the immigration rules to ensure that their personal and career goals are met.