The Point Based System – PBS – introduced by the UK in late February seeks to streamline the visa application process and render it more efficient. The student visa entry route is one area where the PBS is likely to have a big impact and far reaching implications.

Before the introduction of the PBS system, UK student visas were filled with loopholes. These loopholes exposed the system to abuse.

The introduction of the PBS placed more responsibility in the hands of educational institutes. The educational institutes work hand in hand with the Home Office to ensure students entering United Kingdom meet PBS requirements and adhere to the rules.

The rules include the provision of a certificate of sponsorship to all students coming to the UK. The certificates are issued by the educational institution which students will be joining. PBS rules require the educational institute issuing the certificate of sponsorship to vouch for the student’s ability.

The tier 4 student visa takes into consideration the time required to complete the study course and graduate after successfully completing the course.

A student holding a tier 4 visa can change courses within the same education institute without submitting another application. However should the student wish to transfer from the sponsoring institution – change the sponsor – he/she must lodge a new application. The same applies if a student wants to extend the visa duration.

Under the PBS, tier 4 visa holders cannot apply for permanent residency and are only allowed limited working opportunities. Dependants of tier 4 visa holders are afforded entry into the United Kingdom with either tier 3 or tier 5 visas which are also temporarily visas.