Exploring Europe: Travel Options For International Students In The Uk

International students in the UK intending to travel to Europe should be aware of the visa requirements for their destination country. Students from certain countries need a visa to visit a group of 26 European countries that are part of the Schengen agreement. The UK is not part of the Schengen Zone, and a Schengen visa must be obtained separately. Students should also be mindful of their course commitments and attendance, as travelling during term time may require approval from their academic department. Additionally, it is essential to carry the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, visa, or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), and to keep them safe while travelling.

Visa requirements for international students in the UK travelling to Europe

International students in the UK on a Student Visa need to be aware of certain limitations and additional visa requirements when travelling to Europe. The UKVI requires students to be in the UK with a valid student visa and does not allow students to take their courses online from outside the UK.

Students from certain countries will need a Schengen visa to visit a group of 26 European countries that are part of the Schengen agreement. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. To find out if you need a Schengen visa to visit one of these countries, students can visit the website of the UK-based embassy of the country or contact the embassy via email or phone. The application process for a Schengen visa depends on the country being visited, and students should be aware of potential additional charges by external agencies that process visa applications.

Students should also be aware that their eligibility for a Graduate Route visa may be affected by periods spent outside the UK. Absences from the UK can be reported by the University, which can lead to the cancellation of the student visa and affect eligibility for the Graduate Route visa. If travel outside the UK during term time is unavoidable, students should speak to their personal tutor and the Visa Compliance team to approve their absence.

From 1 January 2025, the UK government will replace physical visa and immigration documents with digital immigration status (e-visas). Students will need to ensure that their e-visa is linked to their current, valid passport to re-enter the UK.

Travelling to Europe during term-time

International students in the UK intending to travel to Europe during term-time should be aware of several important considerations. Firstly, it is crucial to understand the visa requirements for travelling to Europe as an international student from the UK. While the UK is not part of the Schengen Zone, some countries in Europe are. As such, students may need to obtain a Schengen visa or another type of visa depending on their destination. It is important to check the specific visa requirements for each country and apply accordingly.

Additionally, students should be mindful of the potential impact on their studies. Attendance is monitored, and absences may affect their student visa status. Therefore, it is advisable to inform the academic department of the university and seek approval for the travel during term-time. Students should also ensure that they have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, visa, and any relevant letters from their university.

When travelling, it is essential to keep important documents secure at all times, as losing them can be a complicated process. Students should also be aware of the potential costs associated with travel, including travel insurance and medical insurance for their trip. It is also worth noting that a UK-issued EHIC is still valid for temporary stays in the EU until its expiration date.

Lastly, students should stay updated with the latest travel advice for their chosen destination, as it may be subject to change. By carefully considering these factors, international students in the UK can ensure a smooth process when planning their trip to Europe during term-time.

Eligibility for Graduate Route visa

International students in the UK intending to travel to Europe should be aware of the 'Study in the UK' rules. While travelling, students must take great care of their passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). In case of theft or loss of the BRP, they will not be able to travel back to the UK until they have applied for a replacement passport and a 'replacement BRP' visa.

Now, onto the Graduate Route Visa eligibility criteria:

Firstly, eligibility for the Graduate Route Visa is not restricted by subject area or nationality. It is available to anyone who has graduated from a UK degree with a valid visa (Tier 4 or Student Route) on or after 1 July 2021. The Graduate Route Visa is a flexible post-study work visa that does not require a job offer or sponsorship. It allows graduates to stay in the UK and work for up to two years (for Bachelor's and Master's graduates) or three years (for PhD graduates).

Secondly, students must hold a Student Visa sponsored by their university for a minimum of 12 months. If a student has changed their course and obtained a new Student Visa, they are still eligible, provided they successfully complete the course. Additionally, for courses starting on or after 1 August 2021, students may be eligible for financial support if they can provide evidence of having lived in the UK, Gibraltar, the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland for at least three years before their course start date.

Thirdly, students who began a course of 12 months or less in 2020 or 2021 and have existing permission to study that course, along with travel to the UK during that period, are eligible to apply for the Graduate Visa. They must, however, return to the UK before their current visa's end date. For students on courses longer than 12 months, they must return to the UK before their Student or Tier 4 visa expires.

Finally, it is important to note that students cannot apply for a second Graduate Route Visa if they are not eligible for a Tier 2 Visa. They must apply for the Graduate Route Visa before their current student visa expires.

Travelling to a non-Schengen country in Europe

As an international student in the UK, you may be able to travel to non-Schengen countries in Europe, but you will need to check the specific entry requirements for each country. Non-Schengen countries have their own visa policies and border controls, so you may need to obtain a separate visa for each country you plan to visit.

The Schengen Area currently includes 29 European countries that have agreed to remove internal borders, allowing free movement between these countries for visa holders. However, some countries in Europe are not part of the Schengen Area and maintain their own independent border controls and visa requirements. These non-Schengen countries include the UK, Ireland, and Turkey, which are popular destinations for travellers.

If you are an international student in the UK with a valid student visa, you are generally allowed to leave and re-enter the country during your studies. You can travel outside the UK during short trips on weekends and vacations without affecting your student visa status. However, it is important to maintain good attendance, as absences may impact your visa.

When travelling to a non-Schengen country in Europe, you will need to ensure that you meet the specific entry requirements of that country. This may include obtaining a separate visa, providing proof of a valid passport, biometric data, a legitimate reason for your visit, financial means to support yourself, and an itinerary. Each country will have its own visa rules and duration limits, so be sure to check the requirements before planning your trip.

Additionally, keep in mind that the requirements and policies for travel can change frequently due to pandemic situations, government policies, or health guidelines. It is essential to regularly check official sources and stay informed about the most up-to-date entry requirements, quarantine rules, and safety protocols for your destination.

Travelling with a physical document or e-visa

As an international student in the UK, you may be able to travel to Europe with a physical document or e-visa. The requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the country you plan to visit. Here is some information to consider when planning your trip:

Schengen Visa:

If you plan to visit countries in the Schengen area, which includes 26 European countries such as Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, and France, you may need a Schengen visa. The requirement for a Schengen visa depends on your nationality. Check with the embassy of the country you want to visit or the UK-based embassy of your main destination. You can also refer to the Schengen visa webpages to determine if a visa is necessary for your specific circumstances.

Travel within Europe:

When travelling within Europe, always carry your passport and visa if required. Keep in mind that the UK is not in the Schengen Zone, so the visa requirements for entering the UK may differ from those for Schengen countries. Additionally, if you are travelling within Europe but outside of the UK, ensure you have appropriate medical insurance. Your existing UK-issued EHIC may be valid for temporary stays within the EU until its expiration date. After that, you can apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).

Student Visa Considerations:

If you are on a Student Visa, your attendance is monitored, and absences may affect your visa status. While short trips during weekends and vacations are generally allowed, extended absences during term time, including the dissertation write-up period, may impact your visa. If you plan to be away for an extended period, consider completing your studies remotely without a student visa. Always check with your university's Visa Compliance Team for approval before travelling.

Graduate Route Visa:

If you intend to apply for the Graduate Route visa, periods outside the UK can affect your eligibility. The Graduate Route visa has specific requirements, such as minimum study duration in the UK, that you must meet. Ensure you understand the eligibility criteria and how your travel plans may influence your application.

Frequently asked questions