Latest news

Increase to visa application fees from 6th April 2018

The cost of UK visa applications will rise by 4% from 6th April 2018, UK Visas & Immigration have announced. 

• Tier 4 applications using the Standard Service in the UK will rise from £457 to £475
• Tier 4 applications using the Priority Service in the UK will rise from £916 to £952
• Tier 4 applications using the Premium Service in the UK will rise from £1047 to £1085 
• Tier 4 applications outside the UK will rise from £335 to £348

Additionally, the Priority Visa fee for applications outside the UK will rise by 15%.

Full list of current and increased fees from 6th April 2018

(19 Mar 2018)

Tier 4 pilot scheme for 2018/19 master's applicants

Durham University will participate in a Tier 4 Pilot scheme which could benefit applicants for one-year Master's programmes in 2018/2019.

Features will include:

• a streamlined visa application process
• an additional six month's leave after study in order to look for work in the UK

Further information on eligibility and requirements

(31 Jan 2018)

Changing programmes: changes to Immigration Rules from January 2018

Changes to the Immigration Rules in 2016 resricted the ability to transfer to a new programme on your current visa, including where you are looking to add a work placement or year of study abroad, change to a programme at a different academic level or one that is longer than your current visa allows.

The changes also removed the ability to apply for a visa extension in the UK, where you will transfer to a new programme having not completed the programme your current visa is for.

However, recent changes in January 2018 allow you to apply for a new visa in the UK if you are adding a year of study abroad or a work placement to your programme (undergraduates only).

Full details of the changes, implications and advice

(18 Jan 2018)

International students targetted by telephone scam

UK Visas & Immigration have made us aware of of the following scam which targets Tier 4 students whereby the student receives a telephone call from an individual who fraudulently claims to represent the Home Office.

Details of recent scams and what to do if you think you have been targetted

(7 Feb 2018)

Collecting your new BRP on arrival in the UK

If you are applying from outside the UK come to study at Durham University, during your visa application online you will be given the option to collect your BRP from the Palatine Centre, Durham University*.

If you wish to use this service, enter the Alternative Collection Location (ACL) code 2HE632 in the Alternative Location field in your online application.  

This option will make it easier and quicker for you to collect your BRP and complete the University’s passport & visa verification process.

Details of this and alternative arrangements for collecting your BRP when you arrive

(23 Jun 2015)

UKVI define working 'week' for Tier 4 students

UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) has defined the working 'week' for Tier 4 students for the first time.

Tier 4 students permitted to work part time, must ensure that they work any permitted hours (as stated on their visa) into a 7-day period starting on a Monday and ending on a Sunday.

This change becomes law on 6 April 2017.

Further information about working during your study

(4 Apr 2017)