Swansea University - Applying for a visa in your home country

Applying for a visa outside the UK

Information about how to apply for a visa in your home country.

I want to apply for my student visa outside the UK

If you already in the UK and have a student visa which has not yet expired, you cannot leave the UK and apply from the embassy in your own country, you must do this inside the UK. This is because most embassies refuse to process applications if you already have a valid visa that has not yet expired. You may wish to contact the embassy in your country and check this but we are told that this is current policy across the world. Click here for information about applying for a student visa in the UK.

If you are a new student and you know you need to apply for a visa, click here to download our leaflet Applying for a student visa from outside the UK

What forms should I use (applying outside the UK)?

You will need to complete 2 forms - VAF9 and Appendix 8. Completed samples of the forms with notes can be viewed below.

Application form VAF9 - PBS Migrant

PBS Appendix 8 General Student self assessment form

If you have dependants (spouse and children) who are applying with you or joining you later, they should complete form VAF10.

Application form VAF10 - PBS Dependant

I want to extend my student visa in the UK

If you are already in the UK, we can help you to apply for your visa by checking your application and documents, and sending it for you to a special case-working unit in the UK Border Agency.

You must attend one of our workshops where we give you further information and help you to fill in the forms.

Click here for further details of how to apply and when the workshops are.

Then book an appointment to have your application checked by an Adviser on 01792 602000.

I want to know more about the Tier 4 General (Student) visa

Find out more about the University's and student's responsibilities under Tier 4 -  Leaflet for students on Tier 4 duties and responsibilites

I am coming to Swansea University for less than 6 months, can I come in as a Student Visitor?

If you are coming to Swansea on a short exchange programme or English language course of LESS than six months, you might be able to enter as a Student Visitor. Click here to find out more.