UK visa applications easier for Chinese students

The United Kingdom government has announced changes to its immigration rules, making it easier for Chinese students to come and study at the UK's world-leading educational institutions.

The changes to the UK’s immigration rules will come into effect July 6, 2018.

The UK Visas and Immigration will reduce documentary requirements for Tier 4 student visa applicants from China, which was announced June 15.

The documents no longer required are evidence of finances, and qualifications or evidence of English language ability.

In addition, Chinese students will be eligible to benefit from the new rule whether they apply for the visa from inside China or elsewhere.

"The simplification of the UK visa application process for Chinese students is great news for thousands of young people starting their courses this autumn and for those considering a UK education in the years to come," said Dame Barbara Woodward, British ambassador to China.

Nevertheless, all Chinese students still need to meet all requirements under the Tier 4 visa route. The UK Visas and Immigration said it reserved the right to request evidence of finances or language ability, and would do so for a random sample of applications.

In the year ending March 2018, the UK issued around 89,000 Tier 4 study visas to Chinese students, a 15 percent increase over the previous 12 months. Ninety-nine percent of those who applied were successful.