EP visa

Student visa abroad process

To study English at our international destinations, you may need to obtain a student visa abroad. We understand that the process of getting a visa can be quite confusing and intimidating, especially if you are not familiar with the student visa abroad application requirements and procedures. That's why we have simplified the process into a few simple and easy-to-follow steps. 

Step 1

After all course entry requirements are met and all documents have been submitted, you will get your acceptance letter from EP.

Step 2

After receiving the acceptance letter, contact the destination country's embassy or consulate in your home country to learn about the process for a student visa abroad. 

Step 3

Prepare and organise all the necessary documents as requested by the destination country's embassy to apply for a student visa abroad.

Step 4

When applying for a student visa abroad, embassies may ask for an in-person interview to gather information about you before processing your application. 

Step 5

When you apply for a student visa abroad, remember it can take 2-3 months to receive confirmation, depending on your home country. 

Step 6

You will finally receive your student visa and can travel to our EP campus to start your English language learning journey.

Visa Information

What do I need for entry to the UK?
This depends on whether you are a visa national or a non-visa national.
EEA & Swiss students are non-visa nationals
Check your visa status here
 
For courses of 6 months or less – visitor visa or visa on arrival
 
All nationalities
•    You will enter the UK as a Visitor
•    There are no limits on the number of courses you can study but they must be completed within the time of the permission granted
•    You must have sufficient funds to cover your time in the UK
•    Work (paid & unpaid), including voluntary work, is not permitted
•    Any visitor who has come in on business or as a tourist can choose to then take an English language course while in the UK
•    You must have a full passport to enter the UK
 
Non visa nationals
•    You do not need to apply for a visa in advance
•    There are no fees to enter the UK
•    You may use the e-gates at the UK border.  However, in the unlikely event that you are questioned, you should carry evidence demonstrating that you meet the entry requirements.  Please have your immigration and enrolment letters from the school with you.  If the school has not arranged your accommodation, please have your accommodation address confirmation ready to show.
 
Visa nationals
•    Visa nationals need pre-entry clearance for a standard visit visa, so if you are a visa national you must apply for a Visitor Visa before you come to the UK
•    A Standard Visitor visa costs £115 for up to 6 months. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel. 
 
You’ll need to provide the following information:
•    The dates you’re planning to travel to the UK
•    Details of where you’ll be staying during your visit
•    How much you think your trip will cost
•    Your current home address and how long you’ve lived there
•    Your parents’ names and dates of birth (if known)
•    How much you earn in a year (if you have an income)
•    Details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences you may have committed
•    You may also be required to supply further details depending on your case.
 
Your intentions will be assessed to check you are a genuine visitor.
You’ll be told what other documents and information to provide when you apply.
 
For more information visit this link
Click here to apply now for a Visitor Visa: Select your language
 
For courses of 7–11 months: short-term study visa
 
•    All visa and non visa nationals (including EEA & Swiss nationals) applying to study for longer than 6 months will need to make an application before travelling
•    You will need to apply for a short-term study visa for English language
•    This route is for English language study only
•    You must be 16 or older
•    If you are aged 16 or 17 then parental consent is required
•    You must have an offer letter (6-11 months duration) from EP.
•    You can only study on the course for which permission has been granted
•    Your course must be between 6 and 11 months long.
•    You must have sufficient funds to cover your time in the UK
•    Work (paid & unpaid), including voluntary work, is not permitted
•    You must leave the UK within 30 days of the end of the course or at the end of 11 months, whichever is earlier
•    You are not able to extend your visa
 
You’ll need to provide the following information:
•    a current passport (with a blank page for your visa) or other valid travel document
•    evidence that you can support yourself during your trip, for example bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months
•    details of where you intend to stay and your travel plans - you should not pay for accommodation or travel until you get your visa
•    evidence that you’ve paid your course fees or have enough money to pay them
•    You may also be required to provide further information.
 
Documents about your course and accommodation
•    You must provide written proof of the course you’re studying. For example, a letter of acceptance from EP stating the course’s name, duration and cost (including accommodation if you booked with EP)
•    Check here for more information
 
Short-term study visa English language fees:
•    Visa fee £200
•    Health surcharge £776 (this charge gives you access to the National Health Service in case you have any medical needs whilst in the UK)
 
For more information on the short-term study visa for English language, click here

 
Apply
You must apply online before you come to the UK. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel to the UK.
As part of your online application, you’ll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your documents and prove your identity.
Allow time to attend your appointment.
The visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.
 
How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.
You may be able to pay to get a faster decision.
 
Apply online
You must apply online. Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later. Apply now
 

 

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If you plan on studying English in Malta, you may be required to apply for a student visa. Let's find out if you need a visa and what steps you need to take.

Malta visa process

For further information, you can contact our EP team for advice.

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Study English in Ireland for 12 weeks or less 

To study English in Ireland for 12 weeks or less: 

How to apply for a short stay ‘C’ visit visa 

You need a short stay ‘C’ visit visa if: 

  • You plan to studying English in Ireland for less than 12 weeks 

  • EEA, Swiss, and British nationals do not need a visa 

Key facts about short stay ‘C’ visit visas: 

Study English in Ireland for 13-25 weeks 

To study English in Ireland for 13-25 weeks: 

  • EEA, Swiss, and British nationals do not need a visa 

  • You need a ‘Stamp 2’ or ‘Work & Study’ visa 

  • Students from certain countries can arrive in Ireland visa free (link: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/visit-ireland-travel-path/)  

  • Students from any other country must purchase a single entry short stay ‘C’ visit visa upon arrival in Ireland 

  • Upon arrival at EP Dublin you will be shown how to order your Stamp 2 visa. This can only be ordered within Ireland. 

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Visa on arrival – This option allows citizens of specific nationalities to enter Dubai free of charge for a specified number of days.
For example, citizens of European Union member states (excluding Ireland) can enter visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period.

Tourist visa – A prearranged visa for citizens who are not eligible for a visa on arrival. There are two options available: a 30-day or 60-day validity.
For example, citizens of Turkey, Thailand, Ecuador, Bolivia, etc., need to apply for a tourist visa before coming to Dubai.

Link to find out if your passport is eligible for visa on arrival or not:
Visit Dubai - visa information or Wikipedia - visa policy of the UAE
Student visa – EP can sponsor a student visa valid for 1 year if the student registers for our work and study program (English course + GBS diploma course).

Student visa – EP can sponsor a student visa valid for 1 year if the student registers for our work and study program (English course + GBS diploma course).

General requirements to apply for tourist, education, or student visa:

  • Passport copy (front page)
  • Passport copy (last page)
  • Passport-sized photo with white background (high resolution)
  • Student undertaking letter and student visa process document signed
  • Address in home country
  • Father’s name
  • Mother’s name
  • Mobile number in the home country
  • Full payment

Other types of visas:

Employment/working visa – Any person who secures a full-time job in the UAE will typically be sponsored a working visa by their employer, which is valid for 2 years.
For further information, please check the website visa and emirates id | the official portal of the UAE government or contact our EP team for advice.

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6 months or more

If you wish to study in Canada for more than 6 months, you will need a study permit.
You will need to meet certain requirements to apply for a study permit.
Check the Canadian government’s website for more details: Study permit: Who can apply - Canada.ca.
The study permit does not give a student the right to enter or exit Canada.
A study permit always needs to be accompanied by a valid TRV (visitor visa/ETA).

6 months or less

You do not need a study permit if you are coming to Canada for a program that lasts 6 months or less.
In that case, depending on which country you are from, you will need a visitor visa or an ETA.
A visitor visa, also known as a temporary resident visa (TRV), is an official document citizens from visa-required countries need to obtain to travel to and enter Canada as a visitor for less than 6 months.

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What do I need to enter Germany?
Your requirements for entering Germany depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Below are the details on different visa options based on your study duration.

For courses of 6 months or less – Schengen visa or visa-free entry
EU/EEA & Swiss students

● You do not need a visa to enter or study in Germany for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Non-EU/EEA students
Language course up to 90 days
● It depends on your nationality whether you need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. As this list is subject to change, please check here to see if you need a visa.
● Citizens of Andorra, Australia, Brazil, Canada, El Salvador, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, South Korea, the UK, and the USA can apply for a longer residence title (e.g., a student visa) in-country. Citizens of the underlined countries can also take up employment and apply for that residence permit in-country. Citizens of other countries will have to leave the country and reapply if they want to apply for a different residence permit.
● Employment is not permitted on this route.

General Entry requirements for short stays (upto 90 days)
All students staying up to 90 days:
● You must have a valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond your stay.
● You should have proof of financial means to cover your stay in Germany.
● Work (paid or unpaid, including volunteering) is not permitted.
● You may take a German language course while in Germany if it aligns with your visa or visa-free status.
●  School course acceptance letter

Language Course longer than 90 days

There are different types of visa that can apply to your stay depending on your intention:

•  Visa for Language Acquisition (Semi Intensive or Premium German Course only)
You will need to apply in your country of residence
The exact list of documents required and an idea about the waiting time can be found on the website of the German embassy in that country, as it can differ slightly

  • This visa is issued for the duration of the language course, with a maximum of 12 months
  • You cannot convert this visa to a different one (eg a student visa). You would have to leave the country and re-apply
  • You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week

 Student Visa (EP course as preparation for a University course)

  • If you have a conditional acceptance for a University course and need to attend the language course (German or English) to get admission to the University, you need to apply for a student visa, which will include the time at EP
  • The student visa will be issued for up to two years and needs to be extended in-country
  • Upon successful graduation from the University, you can convert your residence permit to an 18 month post study work visa.
  •  On a student visa, you can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year (not exceeding 20 hours per week during teaching times)

    Blocked bank account
  • To prove that you are financially independent, you will need to transfer money to a blocked bank account (currently €11,904 for a 12 month period). Once you arrive in Germany, 1/12 of this will be transferred to your German account
  • There are plenty of blocked bank account providers. Students have made good experiences with Fintiba, Expatrio and Coracle.

Health Insurance

  • You need to have a travel insurance to obtain the visa
  • Once you are in Germany, you will have to sign up to public or private health insurance. We can advise further on this subject when you arrive.

Australian visa options

Visitor (tourist) visas (subclass 600), Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601), and eVisitor (subclass 651) visas

A Visitor visa allows you to study for a maximum of three months. This visa can be used by visitors wishing to take a 10-week English Intensive Language Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS).

To be eligible for this visa, you must:
•  Meet health and character requirements.
•   Provide proof that you have sufficient money to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
Please note this visa is for short-term, non-extendable study. Additionally, you cannot apply for a Visitor visa while actually in Australia.
Read more about visitor visas on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Work and holiday visa (subclass 462) and the working holiday visa (subclass 417)
The Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program has two visa options: the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) and the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).
Visa holders may work and undertake short-term study (up to four months), such as English language studies, during their holiday in Australia.
To be eligible, you must:
•    Hold a valid passport from an eligible country.
•   Be aged 18 to 30 or 35 years old (depending on your passport country) at the time of visa application.
•   Not be accompanied by dependent children.
•    Meet health and character requirements.
•    Have sufficient funds for airfares and to support your stay in Australia.
Please note that your eligibility to apply for a 417 or 462 visa depends on the country of the applicant, as most countries are only eligible for one of these visa types.
Read more about the Working Holiday Maker Program at the Department of Home Affairs website.

Student visa (subclass 500)
This visa allows you to:
- Study a course at an Australian education provider.
- Include family in your application, including your partner, child, or partner’s child.
- Stay in Australia for the duration of your course (maximum five years) and travel in and out of Australia.
- Work up to 48 hours a fortnight while your course of study is in session. Students who have started a master's degree by research or a doctoral degree have no work hour limits.
 
The student (subclass 500) visa allows you to study an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS).
You will need to enrol in a course at an Australian education or training provider first and then apply for a student visa after you have been issued a confirmation of enrolment (CoE) from the provider. For more information on applying for courses, visit the how to apply to study page.

Fees and processing time
In Australia, student visa fees are from AUD$1,600 per visa application* unless you are exempt. Australian student visa processing times vary from person to person. Visa processing times are available on the Department of Home Affairs website. You can also get tips on how to improve your processing time.
*Prices are correct as of January 2025.


Student visa conditions
Your Student visa comes with some important conditions. These include that you must:
•    notify your education or training provider of your residential address within 7 days of arriving in Australia
•    meet your course requirements, remain enrolled and maintain satisfactory attendance and course progression – tell your provider if you are sick or have any other issues that may affect your attendance
•    maintain adequate health insurance for visa holders (OSHC) for the entire length of your stay in Australia, and
•    not over-stay your visa period in Australia.
You can check your visa status and full list of conditions any time at the Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO).

Student visa work rights and restrictions
Student visa holders have working rights while in Australia. The number of work hours allowed on a Student visa in Australia is a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight. If you fail to comply with this visa condition, you may have your student visa cancelled.
This limit on work hours applies to all of the following times:
•    during study terms and semesters, including when exams are being held
•    before your course starts (unless you hold a different visa that permits you to work prior)
•    when you take another course that will count towards your main course during a term break – unless this is a mandatory requirement as listed under CRICOS for your main course.
 
At other times, you can work unlimited hours on a Student visa, as follows:
•    during scheduled course breaks
•    if your course was deferred or suspended in line with Standard 9 of the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students   
•    if you hold a valid visa and have completed your course as listed on your Confirmation of Enrolment
•    if your enrolment has been cancelled due to the default of your education provider and until you get a new enrolment and start that course.
 
Check the Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO) to see the work conditions that apply to you.
 
International students are protected by Australia's workplace laws. Find out more on our Working in Australia page.

Applications lodged outside Australia
Student visa applicants with a genuine intention to study in Australia are welcome to apply for a Student visa from offshore (outside Australia).
 
Applications lodged inside Australia
Holders of certain visas, including Visitor, Temporary Graduate, and Maritime Crew visas, cannot apply for Student visas while in Australia.
Students already in Australia on a Student visa can apply for an additional Student visa to complete further study.
 
Make sure your visa application is complete
It is important that you lodge your visa application as early as possible, and make sure your application is complete.
 
Applications from students already in Australia now require a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Not providing a CoE at the time of application will make an application invalid.
 
Visa processing takes longer if applications contain incorrect information or documents are missing. Your visa may even be refused. Find out more here.  
 
Reference: Information provided by www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

 

 

Visa Information – France - Etudiants - France-Visas
To study French or English in France for 90 days or less:

• EEA, Swiss, and British nationals do not need a visa.
• Other nationalities can check for information here.

To study French or English in France for longer than 90 days:

• EEA, Swiss, Monaco, Andorra, Saint-Marino, and Vatican nationals do not need a visa.
•  Other nationalities will need to apply for a Visa de Longue Séjour (VLS) in advance of travel. Use the Visa Assistant to find out if you require a visa: Visa Assistant.
• You will need to provide documentation on arrival, so ensure you have copies or access to copies of these documents: Votre arrivée en France - France-Visas.
• Before applying for a VLS student visa, you should register with Etudes en France (EEF) here and complete pre-consular screening. If you need additional documentation from Admissions, please get in touch. Once complete, you will receive a certificate with a reference number.

• You can apply online here. You will be asked for your EEF number and to upload your EEF certificate.
• There is a fee depending on your nationality: full fee 99 euros, reduced fee 50 euros.
• You will need to validated your visa once you have arrived in France: Étrangers en France | Valider mon VLS-TS
• The VLS is equivalent to a Schengen visa enabling you to move around and stay in the Schengen Area outside France for periods not exceeding 90 days over any period of 180 consecutive days, under the same conditions as if you held a Schengen visa.
• You can check for more information here.

Informations sur les visas - France - Etudiants - France-Visas

Étudier le français ou l'anglais en France pendant 90 jours ou moins
Pour étudier le français ou l'anglais en France pendant 90 jours ou moins :
•    Les ressortissants de l'EEE, les Suisses et les Britanniques n'ont pas besoin de visa.
•    Les autres nationalités peuvent se renseigner ici : https://france-visas.gouv.fr/visa-de-court-sejour


Pour étudier le français ou l'anglais en France plus de 90 jours
•    Les ressortissants de l'EEE, de la Suisse, de Monaco, d'Andorre, de Saint-Marin et du Vatican n'ont pas besoin de visa.
•    Les autres nationalités doivent demander un visa de long séjour (VLS) avant leur départ. Utilisez l'assistant visa pour savoir si vous avez besoin d'un visa : https://france-visas.gouv.fr/web/france-visas/assistant-visa?p_l_back_url=%2Fweb%2Ffrance-visas%2Frechercher%3Fq%3Dvisa%2Bassistant
•    Vous devrez fournir des documents à votre arrivée. Assurez-vous d'avoir des copies de ces documents ou d'y avoir accès : Votre arrivée en France - France-Visas
•    Avant de demander un visa étudiant VLS, vous devez vous inscrire auprès d'Etudes en France (EEF) https://pastel.diplomatie.gouv.fr/etudesenfrance/dyn/public/authentification/login.html et effectuer le contrôle pré-consulaire. Si vous avez besoin de documents supplémentaires de la part du service des admissions, veuillez nous contacter. Une fois le formulaire terminé, vous recevrez un certificat avec un numéro de référence.
 
•    Vous pouvez postuler en ligne ici : https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/R50559 Il vous sera demandé de fournir votre numéro EEF et de télécharger votre certificat EEF.
•    Des frais sont appliqués en fonction de votre nationalité : 99 euros pour le tarif plein, 50 euros pour le tarif réduit.
•    Vous devrez valider votre visa une fois arrivé en France : Étrangers en France | Valider mon VLS-TS
•    Le VLS équivaut à un visa Schengen qui vous permet de circuler et de séjourner dans l'Espace Schengen hors de France pour des périodes n'excédant pas 90 jours sur une période de 180 jours consécutifs, dans les mêmes conditions que si vous étiez titulaire d'un visa Schengen.
•    Pour plus d'informations, cliquez ici : Visa de long séjour -France-Visas

EEF Support for VISA Application

EEF Guide FRA

  

 

Tourist Visa for Spain (Schengen Visa)

Spain is part of the Schengen Area, so the rules apply for all Schengen countries. The general visa allows you to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Visa Requirements for Adults (18 and over)

  1. Completed Visa Application Form:
    • You must fill out the Schengen visa application form.

  2. Passport/Travel Document:
    • Valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay.
    • It should have at least two blank pages.

  3. Recent Passport-size Photographs:
    • Usually two recent passport-sized photos that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements (clear, color photo, white background).

  4. Travel Itinerary:
    • Flight reservation showing the entry and exit dates.
    • Hotel reservations or proof of accommodation.
    • If visiting multiple countries in the Schengen Area, provide proof of the main destination or longest stay.

  5. Travel Insurance:
    • Valid for the entire duration of the stay in the Schengen Area, covering medical emergencies with a minimum coverage of €30,000.

  6. Proof of Financial Means:
    • Proof that you can support yourself financially during the stay, such as:
    • Bank statements for the last three months.
    • Payslips, sponsor letter, or proof of employment.
  7. Visa Fee:
    • Typically, the fee is €80 for adults. This can vary slightly depending on your country of residence.

  8. Cover Letter (optional but recommended):
    • This letter explains your travel intentions, reasons for visiting, and your travel plans.


Visa Requirements for Children (under 18)


1. Completed Visa Application Form:
• The form should be signed by both parents or the legal guardian. If one parent is applying alone, a notarized consent letter from the other parent is required.

2. Passport/Travel Document:
• Same as for adults: valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay, with two blank pages.

3. Recent Passport-size Photographs:
• Similar to the requirement for adults.

4. Travel Itinerary:
• Flight reservations, hotel bookings, or invitation letters showing proof of accommodation.

5. Travel Insurance:
• For children as well, the insurance needs to cover medical emergencies and hospitalization with a minimum coverage of €30,000.

6. Proof of Financial Means:
• Parents/guardians must show their ability to financially support the child during the trip, typically using the same documents they would provide for themselves (e.g., bank statements).

7. Visa Fee:
• The fee for children is typically €40 for those aged 6-12 years. Children under 6 years usually do not have to pay a fee.

8. Parental Authorization:
• Consent letter signed by both parents or the legal guardians. If the child is traveling alone, this is essential.
• If only one parent is traveling with the child, a letter of consent from the other parent is required.

9. Additional Documents (if applicable):
• Birth certificate or any document showing the child’s relationship with the parents or guardians.
• Custody documents (if applicable, in case of divorced parents).


Where to Apply
• You should apply at the Spanish consulate or the visa center in your home country or the country where you legally reside.


Processing Time
• It can take around 15 calendar days to process a Schengen visa application, but it’s advised to apply at least 3 weeks before your planned trip and no earlier than 6 months in advance.


Other Important Notes:
• If you are traveling to multiple Schengen countries, you must apply at the consulate of the country of your main destination.
• Ensure that you provide original documents and have photocopies of all required documents.
• If you are traveling for a short stay (tourism, business), the visa will be valid for multiple entries, but the total stay within 180 days cannot exceed 90 days.
By adhering to these guidelines, the visa application process should be more straightforward for both adults and children traveling to Spain.
 

Visa information

UK

What do I need for entry to the UK?
This depends on whether you are a visa national or a non-visa national.
EEA & Swiss students are non-visa nationals
Check your visa status here
 
For courses of 6 months or less – visitor visa or visa on arrival
 
All nationalities
•    You will enter the UK as a Visitor
•    There are no limits on the number of courses you can study but they must be completed within the time of the permission granted
•    You must have sufficient funds to cover your time in the UK
•    Work (paid & unpaid), including voluntary work, is not permitted
•    Any visitor who has come in on business or as a tourist can choose to then take an English language course while in the UK
•    You must have a full passport to enter the UK
 
Non visa nationals
•    You do not need to apply for a visa in advance
•    There are no fees to enter the UK
•    You may use the e-gates at the UK border.  However, in the unlikely event that you are questioned, you should carry evidence demonstrating that you meet the entry requirements.  Please have your immigration and enrolment letters from the school with you.  If the school has not arranged your accommodation, please have your accommodation address confirmation ready to show.
 
Visa nationals
•    Visa nationals need pre-entry clearance for a standard visit visa, so if you are a visa national you must apply for a Visitor Visa before you come to the UK
•    A Standard Visitor visa costs £115 for up to 6 months. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel. 
 
You’ll need to provide the following information:
•    The dates you’re planning to travel to the UK
•    Details of where you’ll be staying during your visit
•    How much you think your trip will cost
•    Your current home address and how long you’ve lived there
•    Your parents’ names and dates of birth (if known)
•    How much you earn in a year (if you have an income)
•    Details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences you may have committed
•    You may also be required to supply further details depending on your case.
 
Your intentions will be assessed to check you are a genuine visitor.
You’ll be told what other documents and information to provide when you apply.
 
For more information see: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa
Click here to apply now for a Visitor Visa: Select your language
 
For Courses of 7-11 Months: Short Term Study Visa 
 
•    All visa and non visa nationals (including EEA & Swiss nationals) applying to study for longer than 6 months will need to make an application before travelling
•    You will need to apply for a Short Term Study Visa English Language
•    This route is for English language study only
•    You must be 16 or older
•    If you are aged 16 or 17 then parental consent is required
•    You must have an offer letter (6-11 months duration) from English Path
•    You can only study on the course for which permission has been granted
•    Your course must be between 6 and 11 months long.
•    You must have sufficient funds to cover your time in the UK
•    Work (paid & unpaid), including voluntary work, is not permitted
•    You must leave the UK within 30 days of the end of the course or at the end of 11 months, whichever is earlier
•    You are not able to extend your visa
 
You’ll need to provide the following information:
•    a current passport (with a blank page for your visa) or other valid travel document
•    evidence that you can support yourself during your trip, for example bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months
•    details of where you intend to stay and your travel plans - you should not pay for accommodation or travel until you get your visa
•    evidence that you’ve paid your course fees or have enough money to pay them
•    You may also be required to provide further information.
 
Documents about your course and accommodation
•    You must provide written proof of the course you’re studying. For example, a letter of acceptance from English Path stating the course’s name, duration and cost (including accommodation if you booked with EP)
•    Check here for more information: https://www.gov.uk/visa-to-study-english/documents-you-must-provide
 
Short Term Study Visa English Language Fees:
•    Visa fee £200
•    Health surcharge £776 (this charge gives you access to the National Health Service in case you have any medical needs whilst in the UK)
 
For more information on the Short Term Study Visa English language see:
https://www.gov.uk/visa-to-study-english
 
Apply
You must apply online before you come to the UK. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel to the UK.
As part of your online application, you’ll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your documents and prove your identity.
Allow time to attend your appointment.
The visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.
 
How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.
You may be able to pay to get a faster decision.
 
Apply online
You must apply online. Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later. Apply now
 

 

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If you plan on studying English in Malta, you may be required to apply for a student visa. Let's find out if you need a visa and what steps you need to take.

Malta visa process

For further information, you can contact our English Path team for advice.

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If you want to study English in Dublin, Ireland, you may be required to apply for a student visa. Let's find out if you need a visa and what steps you need to take.

Are you an EU/EEA/Swiss national?

  • If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss national and want to study in Ireland for less than 90 days, you typically don't need a visa. You can travel to Ireland with a valid passport or identity card.
  • If your study period in Ireland is more than 90 days, you may need to register with the Irish immigration authorities but generally won't require a visa.
  • If you are a non-visa national, you may not require a visa to study for up to 90 days if you possess a suitable passport for short stays in Ireland.

For further information, you can contact our English Path team for advice.

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Visa on Arrival – This option allows citizens of specific nationalities to enter Dubai free of charge for a specified number of days.  

For example - European Union member states (excluding Ireland) can enter visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period. 

Tourist Visa – A prearranged visa for citizens who are not eligible for visa on arrival. There are two options available: a 30-day or 60-day validity. 

For example – Citizens of Turkey, Thailand, Ecuador, Bolivia, etc. need to apply for a tourist visa before coming to Dubai. 

Link to find out if your passport is eligible for visa on arrival or not: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-information or https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_the_United_Arab_Emirates  

Education Visa – English Path can sponsor an education visa for students who book a minimum of 12 weeks for a 3-month validity, or a minimum of 16 weeks up to 24 weeks for a 6-month validity.

Student Visa – English Path can sponsor a student visa valid for 1 year if the student registers for our Work and Study Program (English course + GBS Diploma course). 

General Requirements to apply for Tourist, Education or Student Visa:  

  • Passport copy front page  

  • Passport copy last page  

  • Passport size photo with white background (high resolution) 

  • Student undertaking letter and Student visa process document signed. 

  • Address in home country 

  • Father’s name 

  • Mother’s name 

  • Mobile number in the home country 

  • Full Payment  

Other Types of Visas: 

Employment/Working Visa – Any person who secures a full-time job in the UAE will typically be sponsored a working visa by their employer, which is valid for 2 years. 

For further information please check the website Visa and Emirates ID | The Official Portal of the UAE Government or contact our English Path team for advice.

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If you wish to study in Canada for more than 6 months, you will need a study permit. 

You will need to meet certain requirements to apply for a study permit. Check the Canadian Government’s website for more details.  Study permit: Who can apply - Canada.ca

The Study Permit doesn’t give a student the right to enter or exit.  A Study Permit always needs to be accompanied by a valid TRV (tourist visa/ETA ).

You don’t need a study permit if you’re coming to Canada for a program that lasts 6 months or less. In that case, depending on which country you are from, you will need a visitor visa or an ETA.

Check the Canadian government’s website for more details:
Study permit: Who can apply - Canada.ca

Find out more

Australian Visa Options
Visitor (Tourist) visas (subclass 600), Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) and eVisitor (subclass 651) visas

A Visitor visa allows you to study for a maximum of three months. This visa can be used by visitors wishing to take a 10-week English Intensive Language Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS).
To be eligible for this visa you must:  
•    meet health and character requirements, and  
•    provide proof that you have sufficient money to support yourself during your stay in Australia. 
Please note this visa is for short-term, non-extendable study.  Additionally you cannot apply for a Visitor visa while actually in Australia.
Read more about visitor visas on the Department of Home Affairs website. 

Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462) and the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) 
The Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program has two visa options: the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) and the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) 
Visa holders may work and undertake short-term study (up to four months), such as English language studies, during their holiday in Australia.  
To be eligible you must:  
•    hold a valid passport from an eligible country
•    be aged 18 to 30 or 35 years old (depending on your passport country) at the time of visa application
•    not be accompanied by dependent children
•    meet health and character requirements, and 
•    have sufficient funds for airfares and to support your stay in Australia. 
Please note that your eligibility to apply for a 417 or a 462 is dependent on the country of the applicant as most countries are only eligible for only one of these visa types.
Read more about the Working Holiday Maker Program at the Department of Home Affairs website.

Student Visa (subclass 500) 
This visa allows you to:
- Study - a course at an Australian education provider.
- Include family - in your application including your partner, child, or partner’s child.
- Stay - in Australia for the duration of your course (maximum five years) and travel in and out of Australia
- Work - up to 48 hours a fortnight while your course of study is in session. Students who have started a master's degree by research or Doctoral degree have no work hour limits.
 
The student (subclass 500) visa allows you to study an English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
 
You will need to enrol in a course at an Australian education or training provider first and then apply for a student visa after you have been issued a confirmation of enrolment (CoE) from the provider. For more information on applying for courses, visit the how to apply to study page.

Fees and processing time
In Australia, student visa fees are from AUD$1,600 per visa application* unless you are exempt. Australian student visa processing times vary from person to person. Visa processing times are available on the Department of Home Affairs website. You can also get tips on how to improve your processing time.
*Prices are correct at January 2025.


Student visa conditions
Your Student visa comes with some important conditions. These include that you must:
•    notify your education or training provider of your residential address within 7 days of arriving in Australia
•    meet your course requirements, remain enrolled and maintain satisfactory attendance and course progression – tell your provider if you are sick or have any other issues that may affect your attendance
•    maintain adequate health insurance for visa holders (OSHC) for the entire length of your stay in Australia, and
•    not over-stay your visa period in Australia.
You can check your visa status and full list of conditions any time at the Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO).

Student visa work rights and restrictions
Student visa holders have working rights while in Australia. The number of work hours allowed on a Student visa in Australia is a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight. If you fail to comply with this visa condition, you may have your student visa cancelled.
This limit on work hours applies to all of the following times:
•    during study terms and semesters, including when exams are being held
•    before your course starts (unless you hold a different visa that permits you to work prior)
•    when you take another course that will count towards your main course during a term break – unless this is a mandatory requirement as listed under CRICOS for your main course.
 
At other times, you can work unlimited hours on a Student visa, as follows:
•    during scheduled course breaks
•    if your course was deferred or suspended in line with Standard 9 of the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students   
•    if you hold a valid visa and have completed your course as listed on your Confirmation of Enrolment
•    if your enrolment has been cancelled due to the default of your education provider and until you get a new enrolment and start that course.
 
Check the Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO) to see the work conditions that apply to you.
 
International students are protected by Australia's workplace laws. Find out more on our Working in Australia page.

Applications lodged outside Australia
Student visa applicants with a genuine intention to study in Australia are welcome to apply for a Student visa from offshore (outside Australia).
 
Applications lodged inside Australia
Holders of certain visas, including Visitor, Temporary Graduate, and Maritime Crew visas, cannot apply for Student visas while in Australia.
Students already in Australia on a Student visa can apply for an additional Student visa to complete further study.
 
Make sure your visa application is complete
It is important that you lodge your visa application as early as possible, and make sure your application is complete.
 
Applications from students already in Australia now require a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Not providing a CoE at the time of application will make an application invalid.
 
Visa processing takes longer if applications contain incorrect information or documents are missing. Your visa may even be refused. Find out more here.  
 
Reference: Information provided by www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

 

 

  

 

Tourist Visa for Spain (Schengen Visa)
Spain is part of the Schengen Area, so the rules apply for all Schengen countries. The general visa allows you to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.


Visa Requirements for Adults (18 and over)
1.    Completed Visa Application Form:
o    You must fill out the Schengen visa application form.
2.    Passport/Travel Document:
o    Valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay.
o    It should have at least two blank pages.
3.    Recent Passport-size Photographs:
o    Usually two recent passport-sized photos that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements (clear, color photo, white background).
4.    Travel Itinerary:
o    Flight reservation showing the entry and exit dates.
o    Hotel reservations or proof of accommodation.
o    If visiting multiple countries in the Schengen Area, provide proof of main destination or longest stay.
5.    Travel Insurance:
o    Valid for the entire duration of the stay in the Schengen Area, covering medical emergencies with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
6.    Proof of Financial Means:
o    Proof that you can support yourself financially during the stay, such as:
o    Bank statements for the last three months.
o   Payslips, sponsor letter, or proof of employment.
7.    Visa Fee:
o    Typically, the fee is €80 for adults. This can vary slightly depending on your country of residence.
8.    Cover Letter (optional but recommended):
o    This letter explains your travel intentions, reasons for visiting, and your travel plans.


Visa Requirements for Children (under 18)
1.    Completed Visa Application Form:
o    The form should be signed by both parents or the legal guardian. If one parent is applying alone, a notarized consent letter from the other parent is required.
2.    Passport/Travel Document:
o    Same as for adults: valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay, with two blank pages.
3.    Recent Passport-size Photographs:
o    Similar to the requirement for adults.
4.    Travel Itinerary:
o    Flight reservations, hotel bookings, or invitation letters showing proof of accommodation.
5.    Travel Insurance:
o    For children as well, the insurance needs to cover medical emergencies and hospitalization with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
6.    Proof of Financial Means:
o    Parents/guardians must show their ability to financially support the child during the trip, typically using the same documents they would provide for themselves (e.g., bank statements).
7.    Visa Fee:
o    The fee for children is typically €40 for those aged 6-12 years. Children under 6 years usually do not have to pay a fee.
8.    Parental Authorization:
o    Consent letter signed by both parents or the legal guardians. If the child is traveling alone, this is essential.
o    If only one parent is traveling with the child, a letter of consent from the other parent is required.
9.    Additional Documents (if applicable):
o    Birth certificate or any document showing the child’s relationship with the parents or guardians.
o    Custody documents (if applicable, in case of divorced parents).


Where to Apply
•    You should apply at the Spanish consulate or the visa center in your home country or the country where you legally reside.


Processing Time
•    It can take around 15 calendar days to process a Schengen visa application, but it’s advised to apply at least 3 weeks before your planned trip and no earlier than 6 months in advance.


Other Important Notes:
•    If you are traveling to multiple Schengen countries, you must apply at the consulate of the country of your main destination.
•    Ensure that you provide original documents and have photocopies of all required documents.
•    If you are traveling for a short stay (tourism, business), the visa will be valid for multiple entries, but the total stay within 180 days cannot exceed 90 days.
By adhering to these guidelines, the visa application process should be more straightforward for both adults and children traveling to Spain.
 

Accreditation and nominations

At EP, part of the GEDU group, we are committed to excellence in language education. Our dedication is reflected in the prestigious accreditations we hold, such as the British Council in the UK, the ELT Council in Malta, Languages Canada in Toronto, Bildungsurlaub in Germany, ACELS and English Education in Ireland, and approval Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai. These accreditations prove that our programmes meet high standards. We are also proud to have been finalists or winners of awards for the best language schools, a testament to the quality and impact of our educational offerings.