Visa Information

Our London centre is accredited by Accreditation UK. This means we can support your entry to the UK to learn English for courses with a maximum duration of 11 months. There are different requirements depending on where you come from (your nationality), how long the English language course is, and your personal circumstances. You may need:

• A letter from us to show border control officials that you are coming to the UK to learn English for fewer than 6 months, or
• A Standard Visitor visa, or
• A Short-term study visa 

Find out if you need a visa here.

Click here for more information about the visa application process.

Do you need a visa?

For English language courses lasting from 1 week to 6 months

• If you are a EU, EEA or Swiss citizen: you can stay in the UK as a student at an accredited institution for up to 6 months without a visa. When you arrive in the UK, you need to show evidence that you will be learning with us. We can supply a letter on official headed paper to show border control officials. If you have a criminal record or you have previously been refused entry to the UK, you may need a Standard Visitor visa.
• If you are from outside the EU or the EEA: you need a Standard Visitor visa. Find out how to apply for a Standard Visitor visa here. We can supply a letter on official headed paper with the necessary details to prove you will be learning English with us.
• Some nationalities from outside the EU or the EEA can enter the UK to learn English for up to 6 months without a visa. Check if your nationality is on this list using the UK Government visa checker tool here. If your nationality is on this list, you need a letter from our school to show border control officials that you will be learning with us. If you have a criminal record or you have previously been refused entry to the UK, you may need a Standard Visitor visa.

For English language courses lasting between 6 and 11 months

There is no difference in this process based on nationality or country of origin, therefore:

• If you are a EU, EEA or Swiss citizen: you need a Short-term study visa. With a Short-term study visa you can stay in the UK for the length of your course, plus an extra 30 days, as long as your stay is no longer than 11 months. We can supply a letter on official headed paper with the necessary details to prove you will be learning English with us.
• If you are from outside the EU or the EEA: you need a Short-term study visa. With a Short-term study visa you can stay in the UK for the length of your course plus an extra 30 days as long as your stay is no longer than 11 months. We can supply a letter on official headed paper with the necessary details to prove you will be learning English with us. Here are the steps you need to take to apply for a Short-term study visa.

For English language courses lasting longer than 11 months

You need a Student visa. This type of visa used to be called Tier 4 (General) Student visa. We are unable to support Student visa applications.

Registering with the police

UK visas and registering with the police - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Guide to the UK’s New Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) System

What is the UK ETA?

The UK has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visa-exempt travellers. If you are visiting the UK and do not require a visa, you may now need an ETA before your trip. This is a digital travel permit required for entry, similar to the US ESTA or the upcoming EU ETIAS.

Who Needs an ETA?

• Citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and EU nations from April 2025)
• Transit passengers passing through the UK without a visa

Exemptions:

• British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.
• If you already have a valid UK visa or residency permit, you do not need an ETA.
• Residents of Ireland who are travelling from within the Common Travel Area (Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, Isle of Man) are also exempt.

How to Apply for an ETA

• You can apply online or through the official UK ETA app, available for iOS and Android.
• Provide your passport details, a recent photograph, and answer security questions.
• Pay the application fee.
• Receive your ETA confirmation within three working days (most are processed faster).

Once approved, your ETA is linked electronically to your passport.

How Long is the ETA Valid?

An ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into the UK for short visits (up to six months for tourism, business, or study).

When Will ETA Be Required?

• Now in effect: Qatar passport holders must already obtain an ETA.
• From January 8, 2025: Citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE must apply.
• From April 2, 2025: Most EU countries, as well as the USA, Canada, and others, will require an ETA.

What Happens If You Don’t Have an ETA?

Without a valid ETA, you will not be allowed to board your flight, ferry, or train to the UK. Make sure you apply well in advance of your trip.

More Information

For the latest updates and application details, visit the UK government’s official page:

UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Guide

If you have questions, contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI): Visit UKVI

Make sure you check your eligibility and apply before travelling to avoid disruptions to your journey!

Please note this is for informational purposes only and is not official or legal- please consult the UK Visa and immigration services for full, up to date information.