Proving Temporary Absence

Hi there, advice from an SFE representative would be really appreciated here. In September 2026 I will be doing a Master's. This is my situation - I am a UK citizen and I lived in England right up until September 2024 when I decided to take part in Canada's working holiday scheme. I was granted a 2 year temporary work permit but I ended up returning after 1 year and just got back to the UK.

I am fairly certain that I do count as a home student as I have seen other threads here where a representative confirms working holidays of 1-2 years don't affect residence status. I have maintained ties in the UK - my whole family is still there, I've returned to the same address as before (my parent's house) with the same bank account and same GP. However, I worry about my evidence:

- Return ticket: I can absolutely provide this, but I didn't book it until a couple months before I left Canada.
- Temporary visa: I can absolutely provide this too, but as I said above it shows as still valid and does not expire until 2026, even though I don't intend to use it.
- Work contract: I do have a contract for my job in Canada but the contract itself doesn't mention it being temporary. There was just an understanding with my employers that I was a temporary resident. I could however ask them to write a letter confirming when I left.
- Bank account: I kept my UK bank account and am resuming using it. However the transactions for the period I was gone were for expenses in Canada, not the UK as my parents are on all our bills.
- Letters from my parents: I'm sure I could get my parents to confirm our understanding I would come back and that I am still living there.

I am wondering how strong this evidence is and if anyone has any ideas what else I can provide based on my situation. Many thanks.

Reply 1

Drew SLC

Official Rep

Hi there,

All the evidence you have mentioned is defiantly evidence we can accept that proves that your break in residency was of a temporary nature. We are unable to advise if it would be accepted as we are not assessors however once you submit your application if you provide all this evidence it will allow us to process you application.

Thanks, Drew