Changes to the UKVI Child Student Visa rules - Important update for parents of under-18 overseas students in the UK

We are informing you of crucial updates to the UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) Child Student Immigration Rules, which took effect on May 29th 2025. As part of these changes, UKVI is intensifying its scrutiny of the host family accommodation arrangements approved for international students by independent schools.

What does this mean for students, parents, and agencies

This increased oversight will result in schools requesting more detailed information about homestay arrangements. This initiative is crucial to ensure that each student's living situation meets the highest standards of safeguarding and is fully transparent to both schools and immigration authorities.

Here's what to expect:

- Requests for Detailed Information: Schools will require documentation such as:

- Proof of the whole family enhanced DBS check

- Proof of British citizenship or settled status for the whole family. Schools will directly discuss the suitability of the Host Family and accommodation with them, confirm that the necessary paperwork, insurance, and certificates are in place, and finalise hosting arrangements.

• Registered Host Family will now be categorised as the "Nominated Guardian"

These changes are designed to enhance the safety and well-being of all students, ensuring a secure and positive environment. Additionally, there is a wider push to ensure that all living arrangements meet safeguarding standards and are transparent to the school and immigration authorities.

If you have any questions about the UKVI Child Student Visa rules, please don't hesitate to reach out.