Visitor immigration permission

Students undertaking the following types of study can do so as a Visitor:  

  • A short course where the duration is less than 6 months. 
  • A short period of research as part of a degree at an overseas institution. 
  • A medical elective placement.  
  • A part-time postgraduate course in which students spend most of their study time overseas and are only required to attend specified short periods in Cambridge. 
  • A PhD student returning to the UK for their viva and to complete their studies. 
  • A student granted an examination allowance to re-take part of their course or re-sit examination/s where the relevant period of study is less than 6 months. 

Whether you need to apply for a visa in advance of travelling to the UK depends on your nationality:  

Students from certain countries, i.e. visa nationals, are required to obtain a Visitor visa before travelling to the UK. The list of visa nationals is outlined in the Immigration Rules. 

Information on the application, including supporting documents, is outlined on the government website. 

A standard Visitor visa is granted for 6 months. It may be possible to request a longer-term Visitor visa.  

If your country is not included on the list of visa nationals, you will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to travel.  

A status as a Visitor in the UK has the following restrictions:

  • You cannot take employment in the UK.
  • You cannot undertake a work placement/internship (paid/unpaid).
  • You cannot work on a self-employed basis in the UK or be involved in business activities.
  • You cannot extend your stay in the UK.
  • You must demonstrate you have the funds to support yourself during your studies in the UK.

Entry to the UK as a Visitor is at the discretion of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) based on information available to them and the University cannot accept responsibility for decisions made by government agencies. 

Students coming to the UK as a Visitor are advised to take out private medical insurance unless your country has a reciprocal agreement with the UK which may entitle you to free healthcare. Further information is on the UKCISA website.