Child students - Tier 4 (Child)
Your care arrangement
This page explains the care arrangements that must be in place for a child student under Tier 4 of the points-based system.
Under Section 55 of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009, the UK Border Agency must have regard to the need to safeguard children and to promote their welfare.
If you want to be a child student under Tier 4, you must have a suitable care arrangement in place for your stay in the UK, and (if you are applying from overseas) for your travel and reception on arrival here.
You will need the consent of your parent(s) or legal guardian to your application, and to this care arrangement.
There are additional requirements if you will be cared for by someone who is not a parent or close relative while you are here. This is called a 'private foster care arrangement'.
If you are under 12 years old, you can be accompanied to the UK by a parent or legal guardian. They will need to apply to come here as as a special visitor
More information
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Private foster care arrangement
Children under 16 years old (or under 18 years old if disabled) are said to be in a 'private foster care arrangement' if they are cared for on a full-time basis for more than 28 days by adults who are not their parents or close relatives.
It is the responsibility of the parents, the carer and anyone else involved in making the private foster care arrangement (including the education provider) to notify the UK local authority of the arrangement. The Department for Children, Schools and Families has produced guidance on this requirement.
In the UK, local authorities are responsible for safeguarding and protecting children. They must ensure that private foster carers are suitable, and that they get any support and guidance that they may need.
If you will be cared for by a close relative, parent or legal guardian, they are not considered to be a private foster carer and so will not need to register with a UK local authority. A ' close relative' is a grandparent, brother, sister, step-parent, uncle (brother or half-brother of your parent) or aunt (sister or half-sister of your parent) who is aged 18 or over.
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UK legislation and regulations on care arrangements for children
All arrangements for children's care and accommodation in the UK must comply with the relevant UK legislation and regulations.
You can find more information on the Department of Health website:
Application forms
Policy guidance for Tier 4 students
- Tier 4 policy guidance PDF 690KB opens in a new window