Visa Delays Leave UK Language Schools Struggling to Stay Afloat

UK English language schools are reporting severe financial and operational strain as student visitor visa processing times double, rising from an average of 2–3 weeks to 6–8 weeks. The delays are hitting hardest during the summer peak—typically the most lucrative season—causing last-minute cancellations, half-empty classrooms, and a drop in international enrolments.

“It’s never been this unpredictable,” said one school director in Brighton. “Students plan months ahead, but now they’re cancelling just days before arrival.”

According to sector reports, visa backlogs are just one part of a broader storm facing the English language teaching (ELT) sector. Other key pressures include:

- Tighter financial checks and documentation requirements for short-term study visas
- A proposed 6% levy on international tuition fees
- Stricter compliance rules for student recruitment agents
- Fewer post-study work options, reducing the appeal of the UK for language learners

Industry leaders, including English UK and the British Council, are urging the Home Office to streamline visa processing and issue emergency support to the sector. Without intervention, they warn, international students may increasingly opt for destinations like Canada, Ireland, or Australia, which offer faster and more predictable visa routes.

Language schools were among the hardest-hit during the pandemic, and many are still operating below 2019 enrolment levels. The current visa backlog could derail a fragile recovery and force some smaller schools to close permanently.

“There’s real concern that this summer might be make-or-break,” said a source from a leading London-based school group.

The Department for Education and Home Office have yet to issue a formal response.