UKVI Rule Changes 2025: What Parents and Agents Need to Know (From 29 May)

New UKVI Rules from 29 May 2025 For All Boarding International School Students

Overview of the UKVI Rule Changes 2025

From 29 May 2025, new rules from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) bring greater clarity and responsibility regarding guardianship for Child Student visa holders.

Updated Requirements for Nominated Guardians

Who Qualifies as a Nominated Guardian?

A nominated guardian must now be A UK-based adult (with British citizenship or settled status)

The Role of the Letter of Undertaking

Someone who has signed a Letter of Undertaking confirming they are taking responsibility for the child during their stay in the UK

UKVI Suitability and Background Checks

Criminal Records and Refusal Grounds

UKVI can now refuse a visa if a nominated guardian (or someone they live with) has a criminal record or is otherwise unsuitable to care for a child.

Declaring Living Arrangements in Visa Applications

What Must Be Confirmed Upfront?

The visa application must state clearly whether the child will live at a boarding school, with a host family, or another permitted arrangement. Vague or unconfirmed arrangements may now result in delays or refusals.

School Responsibilities Under the New UKVI Rules

Documentation, Safeguarding and Guardian Confirmation Schools that sponsor international students under the Child Student visa route must:

• Confirm that parents have appointed a suitable guardian

• Keep proper documentation (such as proof of AEGIS accreditation)

• Have safeguarding policies in place for exeats, half terms and emergency care

  
  

Why These UKVI Rule Changes Matter for Guardianship

Protecting International Students in the UK

The Role of Accredited Guardianship Providers

These updates are part of the UK’s commitment to safeguarding international students, especially those under the age of 18. It’s now more important than ever to work with a professional, accredited educational guardianship organisation.

At Aspire Guardians, we ensure:

• All guardians are UK-based and AEGIS-accredited

• Host families are fully vetted and regularly inspected and meet the new UKVI requirements (British Citizen or Settled Status)

• Parents receive a legally compliant Letter of Undertaking

• All safeguarding policies are up to date and school-friendly

  
  

What Parents, Agents and Schools Should Do Now

Practical Steps Before Applying for a Child Student Visa

Whether you are a parent, agent, or school, here’s how you can prepare:

• Appoint a UK-based nominated guardian

• Ensure all documentation (including the Letter of Undertaking) is completed before the visa application

• Confirm living arrangements clearly in all application materials

• Work with a trusted and experienced educational guardianship provider like Aspire Guardians

  
  

How Aspire Guardians Supports Compliance with UKVI Rule Changes Starting May 2025

Fully Vetted Guardians and Host Families

Our Commitment to Safety and Collaboration

We are already fully compliant with the new UKVI rules. Our team supports students and families through every stage, including:

• Providing all necessary documents and ID checks

• Supplying safe and caring host families throughout the UK

• Offer flexible guardianship packages tailored to each student’s needs

• Liaising and collaborating with families, schools and agents to ensure everyone is aligned

  
  

If you have any questions about how the new UKVI rules might affect your students or children, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help you navigate the changes with confidence and care.