Immigration Briefing Note - Final Phase of Tier 4

Immigration Briefing Note - Final Phase of Tier 4

On 22 February 2010, the UK Border Agency (UKBA) implemented the final phase of the Points Based System (PBS) under which students from outside the EEA can apply to study in the UK (Tier 4 of the PBS).  Under the new system, all applicants under Tier 4 must provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) with their application (in place of the visa letter).  If not provided, their application will be rejected.  Sponsors need to be aware of this change and provide all potential students with a CAS reference number, their sponsor licence number together with a package of information called a "CAS Statement".

It should be noted that if a prospective student has a visa letter issued before 22 February 2010, they can no longer use it to apply for a Tier 4 student visa.  If sponsors have issued such visa letters to students, they must replace them with a CAS.

Sponsors also have an additional obligation under the new system; they must notify the UKBA via the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) of students who have used a CAS in their application.  A transition exercise must be performed by a Level 1 user of a Tier 4 sponsor who became licensed before 5 October 2009.  This involves the the Level 1 user logging onto the SMS to convert their allocated certificates of sponsorship into CAS. 

If you have any concerns as to how these changes will affect you, please contact Sally Azarmi or Chetal Patel on 01473 232300.

The content of this article is for general information only.  As always, specific professional advice should be taken on each individual matter.© Birketts LLP 2010.  Solicitors regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.