Police registration

If your student visa has the condition "Register with the Police within 7 days" then you will need to apply for a Police Registration Certificate as soon as possible after you arrive in the UK.

Students from the following countries studying in the UK for 6 months or more will need to register with the police:

In Edinburgh, these Certificates are issued by the Nationality Department of Police Scotland, based in Fettes Avenue close to the City Centre:

Nationality Department
Police Scotland
Fettes Avenue
Edinburgh EH4 1RB

The Department is open from Monday to Friday, 09.00am - 12.30pm.

Students studying at the Scottish Borders Campus who need to register with the police should do so at the local Police Station in Bridge Street, Galashiels.

To register, you should take along your Passport, a recent Passport size photograph, the appropriate fee in cash (£34), your acceptance letter from the University and proof of your home and UK addresses. You will be asked to complete a form with assistance from a member of the nationality staff. You will then be asked to return at a pre-arranged time (about three weeks later) to pick up your Registration Certificate.

After registration, it is important that you inform the police if you:

• change your address
• receive an extension to your visa
• move to another institution
• are issued with a new passport

You can notify these changes at your local police station.

The International Student Advisors Office produces a useful leaflet called Police Registration that details the documents requested when applying for a Police Registration Certificate, it also gives directions to the Police Headquarters in Edinburgh.

However, should you need any further help or advice, do not hesitate to contact the International Student Advisors Office: Tel 0131 451 3028, email isao@hw.ac.uk.

Nationality Department Frequently Asked Questions

Police Registration - Home Office guidance