Student document check (right to study)

To complete registration, some students need to present their documents to the University to prove they can study in the UK.

As part of your registration, you will be told whether you need to present your documents to finalise your registration. Your online student record will also say if you need to complete a document check.

If you are required to, but do not complete this step, you will not be able to register for your course of study.

We have to check that the information you provide meets UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements and ensure that you have the right to study in the UK.

This check is based on the nationality listed in your application and student record. It is not based on your fee status, so you may be required to attend a check even if you are a UK resident and pay home fees.

Students who must attend a student document check

You must have your documents checked if you:

  • are a new student or enrolling on a new course and your nationality is subject to immigration control
  • are returning to the University after a suspension and your nationality is subject to immigration control
  • are a returning student and we need information from you about your visa
  • have a new Student visa for any other reason
  • do not have a nationality listed on your student record.

How to complete your student document check

You will receive an email on 10 or 11 September 2025 with instructions to help you arrange a student document check. You can collect your UCard during your appointment.

If your programme start date is before 15 September, email student-visas@bristol.ac.uk to arrange your student document check.

Before your appointment

You should:

What to bring

You must bring to your appointment:

  • your passport
  • your share code.

You should bring these documents if you have them:

  • flight details of when you arrived in the UK on a Student visa. For example, a flight ticket or boarding pass.
  • an email from UKVI confirming your Student visa application.
  • evidence of your new visa application. For example, a visa application form or a visa application receipt.
  • an email from UKVI confirming your visa application outcome/decision.

Your documents must be original. We do not accept scans or photocopies.

We store copies of your documents as part of our sponsor duties.

Late registration 

If you are arriving in Bristol after 24 September, check this page for updated information after you arrive to find out how to book your student document check.

Make sure you are aware of the latest dates for registration.

If you are a visitor

You still need to come to an in-person check, even if you:

  • travelled through eGates
  • have an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)
  • do not have a physical visa.

Bring your flight tickets and passport.

More information

If you have any questions about the student document check, email student-visas@bristol.ac.uk.

More information about student visas.