No matter where you choose to study in the world, you will need to secure the proper immigration documentation in order to be allowed to enter that country and live there as a student. This process can seem very difficult to understand and navigate, because of all the necessary paperwork to complete.
However you should keep in mind that hundreds of thousands of students do the same thing each year, so you are not alone. Below are a couple of things you should keep in mind to make sure your student visa process goes smoothly:
Apply for your passport beforehand
If you don't already have a passport, apply for this as soon as possible. Getting your first passport is often much, much harder than renewing a passport as your identity has to be verified. Plus there can often be delays to process your application as these offices get very busy.
Get the correct photo
Something like a photo shouldn't disrupt your visa process to much right? Wrong! There will be certain guidelines on what is a satisfactory photo identification, especially in countries like the UK. This may mean wearing no glasses or not smiling in your photo! These may seem silly, but rules are rules.
Supply all documents required
If you are asked to provide a document, do so! Ignoring this will only slow down your application being processed as someone will have to chase you for these missing documents, and then wait for you to send them. Read what you need to provide carefully and submit it in the correct format.
Read the terms carefully
Once you have your visa, read the terms of it carefully (these will also be on your visa or passport sticker). Depending on where and what you are studying, as well as other factors, there are likely some restrictions on what you can and cannot do while living in another country. The most notable example is if you can work or not (and if so, how long for and what you can do). Stick to these terms, or you risk being deported before your course has finished.
Get further, in-depth student visa advice courtesy of Hotcourses Abroad for 10 of the most popular study destinations in the world. This includes the full processes for applying, explained in a simple, easy-to-understand fashion with popular queries answered too.
