The UK government has introduced updated rules for children coming to the UK on a Child Student Visa. These changes are designed to improve safeguarding and ensure that every child studying in the UK has clear, appropriate care arrangements in place. The revised immigration rules and updated guidance for sponsors took effect in stages in 2025 and continue to shape UKVI applications from November 2025. The rules affect children who are attending an independent school in the UK.

What’s Changed?

Clearer Care and Living Arrangements

When applying for a Child Student visa, families must now clearly explain where the child will live and who will care for them outside of school time. This includes term time, weekends and school holidays.

Children may live:

  • In school boarding accommodation
  • With a nominated guardian
  • With a close relative
  • With a private foster carer

These arrangements must be confirmed before a UKVI visa application is submitted. There is detailed guidance regarding each case.

Stronger Guardianship Requirements

The definition of a nominated guardian has been expanded. Guardians may now be:

  • An individual appointed by parents, or
  • A professional guardianship organisation such as Cambridge Guardians.

Guardians are responsible for supporting the child when they are not in school, including during holidays, illness or emergencies.

Increased Safeguarding Checks

UKVI authorities now have greater powers to refuse a visa if there are concerns about a child’s care arrangements or the suitability of a guardian or carer. This includes checks related to safeguarding and household suitability. Parents should check the detailed guidance regarding who is a suitable carer for their child.

Letters of Undertaking Required

A Letter of Undertaking from the guardian must be provided as part of the visa application. This confirms:

  • Who is responsible for the child
  • Where the child will live when not at school
  • That appropriate care and supervision will be provided

Schools must keep these letters on record.

Greater Responsibilities for Schools

Schools sponsoring Child Student visas are expected to keep accurate records of:

  • Travel and arrival details
  • Where students live when not boarding
  • Any changes to guardianship or care arrangements

What This Means for Families

Families should:

  • Arrange guardianship and accommodation early
  • Ensure all documents are accurate and complete
  • Work closely with their school and guardianship provider to ensure all arrangements meet the detailed requirements
  • Avoid last-minute changes to care arrangements

Incomplete or unclear information can lead to visa delays or refusals.

Why These Changes Matter

The updated rules aim to strengthen child welfare and safeguarding for international students studying in the UK. By setting clear expectations, the government hopes to ensure every child is properly supported throughout their time in the UK.

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How Cambridge Guardians Can Help

Cambridge Guardians provides professional guardianship and host family support for international students studying in the UK. We work closely with parents and schools to ensure that each student’s care, accommodation and safeguarding arrangements fully meet UKVI Child Student visa requirements.

Our services include guardianship, emergency support, holiday care and full compliance with UK safeguarding expectations.

Get in touch if you want to know more about our guardianship services: info@cambridgeguardians.co.uk