Parent of Child at School in UK

Parent of a Child Student visa guidance for parents of under-12s at independent fee-paying day schools.

Reviewed by Border & Boundaries Immigration Team·Last updated 30 Aug 2026

Overview

The Parent of a Child Student route may allow one parent to accompany a child under 12 at an independent fee-paying day school. It is separate from a Standard Visitor visa and has specific eligibility tests.

Overview & Eligibility

What is the Parent of a Child Student route?

This route may allow one parent to live in the UK while a child under 12 attends an independent fee-paying day school. It is not the same as visiting on a Standard Visitor visa.

Who may qualify

Parents who meet age, school-type, maintenance, and sole-parent conditions in the Rules may qualify. Boarding arrangements and older children usually need a different analysis.

How it differs from a visitor visa

A visitor stay is short and limited. The parent route is designed for living with a child student for the school period, subject to conditions and extensions.

Requirements & Evidence

School and CAS evidence

A valid CAS or confirmation from an eligible day school is central. Fee payment or ability to pay should be clear.

Maintenance and accommodation

You must show funds and housing that meet the Rules for you and your child. Statement formats and timing matter.

Only one parent

Usually only one parent can hold this permission at a time. The other parent’s status and consent should be explained where relevant.

Applying, Costs & Refusals

How to apply

Apply in the correct parent-of-child category with school, relationship, and maintenance evidence. We align the parent and child applications so timelines match.

Costs & processing time

Home Office fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge usually apply. School fees are separate. Processing times vary.

Common reasons applications are refused

School that does not meet the day-school requirements
Child’s age or boarding arrangements outside the Rules
Insufficient maintenance or accommodation evidence
Confusion with a Standard Visitor application

Key Requirements

Child's age	Child must usually be under 12 years old
School type	Independent fee-paying day school (not boarding)
Single parent	Only one parent can hold this visa at a time
Maintenance	Sufficient funds to maintain yourself and your child in the UK
Duration	Often linked to the child’s course, extendable if requirements continue to be met

Typical Supporting Documents

Child's Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school
Evidence of school fees paid or ability to pay
Birth certificate showing parent-child relationship
Financial evidence (bank statements, savings)
Evidence of accommodation in the UK
Tuberculosis test results (if required by country)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can both parents get a Parent of a Child Student visa?

Usually only one parent can hold this permission at a time. The other parent may need a different route or to remain abroad. We confirm what fits your family.

Does this work for boarding schools?

This route is generally for independent fee-paying day schools. Boarding arrangements often need a different analysis. We check the school type against the current Rules.

Can I work on a Parent of a Child Student visa?

Work conditions depend on the grant. Many parents face restrictions. Always check the wording of your permission before taking employment.

Send an enquiry

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