Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Who can apply
The Parent of a Child Student visa page says your child must be 4 to 11 when you apply and attend an independent school in the UK. You must be the only parent accompanying the child, have enough money, keep your main home outside the UK and plan to leave when the visa expires. The child's other parent must live abroad.
You can bring your other children only if they also have, or are applying for, a Child Student visa.
Costs and funds
All figures are from the gov.uk page on 30 October 2026.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | £726 |
| Healthcare surcharge | Usually £1,035 per year |
| Funds for you and one child | £1,560 a month, up to 9 months |
| Funds for a stay of 9 months or longer | £14,040 |
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What the visa does not allow
You cannot do paid work, study, start a business, make the UK your main home, claim benefits or switch to another visa. You can stay until your child's visa expires or they turn 12, whichever comes first. Immigration rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current rule on the gov.uk Parent of a Child Student page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need IELTS to accompany my child to a UK school?+
No. Gov.uk's requirements for the Parent of a Child Student visa do not include an English test.
Can both parents come?+
No. You must be the only parent accompanying the child, and the other parent must live abroad.
Can I study English on this visa?+
No. Gov.uk lists study among the things you cannot do.
What happens when my child turns 12?+
Your visa lasts until the child's visa expires or they turn 12, whichever comes first.
Keep reading
Related
- Does the Child Student visa need IELTS?
- Student Guardian visa 590 (Australia)
- IELTS for UK spouse and family visas
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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