Visa-related absence and changes
Speak to Visa and International Support before a study change or absence is approved. Your actual visa conditions and current University/Home Office requirements need checking; this page explains what the framework says, not an individual immigration decision.
Authorised absence
Framework §5.4 requires formal approval for absence over five days, including conferences/holidays where suspension is not needed. The DoS ensures RD7-AA reaches Visa and International Support, copying the Operations Team. Authorised absence does not itself extend registration.
§3.9 mentions a fixed-University-holiday exception; the live forms page says “5+ days”. Check exactly five days and fixed-holiday treatment with the team instead of assuming exemption.
Absence bands described in §5.4
| Duration | Framework description |
|---|---|
| Over 5 to 28 calendar days | Authorised leave; no Home Office notification; period cannot be extended |
| Over 28 to 60 calendar days | Home Office notified of non-attendance, sponsorship not withdrawn |
| Over 60 calendar days | Suspension; Home Office informed and sponsorship withdrawn; leave UK by specified date and obtain a new visa before return |
The framework describes use of the existing visa for re-entry in the shorter bands. Confirm your actual travel/re-entry position with the team before travelling; the summary is not permission to travel or a guarantee of entry.
Other changes
- Student Visa holders in the UK are not permitted part-time study under §5.1.
- Moving School may be restricted because the visa covers a specific course.
- A higher award requires a new visa; a lower award may also affect it.
- Work limits depend on your visa, potentially including unpaid activity. Generic 10/20-hour examples are not personal authorisation.
- Attendance/engagement monitoring and debt sanctions can also affect sponsorship.
Use My Napier International Students for the current support route and Contacts for help finding it.
Sources: Framework §§3.9, 3.13, 5.1–5.4, pp. 32, 34, 53–58; live forms landing page. Read the absence guidance.