Martin taggart

Complete Guide to the UK Student Dependent Visa

1. Overview: What is the UK Student Dependent Visa?

The UK Student Dependent Visa allows dependents of international students on a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) to accompany them to the UK. Dependents typically include a spouse, civil partner, or children under 18. This visa is ideal for families looking to stay together during a student’s academic journey in the UK.

2. Who is Eligible for the UK Student Dependent Visa?

Eligibility for the Student Dependent Visa includes:

  • The Primary Applicant (Student) must be:
    • Enrolled in a postgraduate program (RQF level 7 or above) lasting 9 months or more at a recognized UK institution, or
    • Sponsored by a government scholarship for a program lasting 6 months or longer.
  • Dependents can include:
    • Spouse or Civil Partner
    • Unmarried Partner (must prove you’ve lived together for at least 2 years)
    • Children Under 18 (including newborns born in the UK during the student’s study)

3. Key Requirements for the UK Student Dependent Visa

  1. Relationship Proof: Documentation that verifies the relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates.
  2. Financial Requirements: Proof of funds to cover living costs for each dependent.
  3. Accommodation: Evidence of suitable accommodation for the family in the UK.
  4. Intent to Return: Proof that the dependents will leave the UK when the student’s visa expires (if applicable).

4. Financial Requirements for Dependents

You must demonstrate adequate financial support for each dependent, separate from funds for the student. The required funds are:

  • Inside London: £845 per month (up to 9 months) per dependent.
  • Outside London: £680 per month (up to 9 months) per dependent.

Examples of Financial Proof

  • Bank Statements: In the student’s or dependent’s name, held for at least 28 consecutive days before application.
  • Scholarship Letters: If the student is funded by a government or recognized institution, the scholarship letter should confirm support for dependents.

5. Required Documents for the UK Student Dependent Visa

When applying, each dependent needs to provide:

  • Valid Passport: With at least 6 months’ validity beyond the planned stay.
  • Proof of Relationship:
    • Spouse/Partner: Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
    • Children: Birth certificates or legal adoption papers.
  • Proof of Funds: Bank statements or scholarship letter.
  • Accommodation Details: Rental agreement or confirmation of student housing.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results: Required for dependents from countries where TB testing is mandatory, including Nigeria, India, and Pakistan.

6. Application Process for the UK Student Dependent Visa

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

Each dependent must complete the online visa application form on the UK government’s official website.

Step 2: Pay the Visa and Healthcare Fees

Visa fees are approximately £490 per dependent, and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £624 per year for each dependent.

Step 3: Attend a Biometrics Appointment

Dependents must attend a biometrics appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre to submit fingerprints, photos, and required documents.

Step 4: Submit Required Documents

Upload or provide original copies of all required documents through the visa application portal or at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) as instructed.

Step 5: Wait for Decision

Processing times for Student Dependent Visas typically take 3–8 weeks. Priority processing options may be available for an additional fee.

7. Conditions and Work Rights for Student Dependents

  • Spouse/Partner Work Rights: Most dependent spouses and partners are eligible to work full-time or part-time in the UK, except in certain cases (e.g., dependents of short-term students).
  • Dependent Children’s Education: Children can attend UK schools but may require school admission permits.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my dependents work in the UK on a Student Dependent Visa?
    Yes, most dependent spouses or partners can work in the UK, depending on the primary student’s course level and sponsor status.
  2. Can I bring my parents as dependents on my student visa?
    No, only spouses, partners, and children under 18 are eligible as dependents. Parents are not included in this visa category.
  3. What is the minimum duration of my course to bring dependents?
    Your course must be at least 9 months long at the postgraduate level or a government-sponsored program lasting 6 months or more.
  4. Can dependents extend their visa with the student’s extension?
    Yes, dependents can apply for an extension in line with the primary visa holder’s extension if the course continues.
  5. Can I bring my dependent child over 18?
    No, children over 18 are not eligible under the dependent visa for students.

9. Conclusion

The UK Student Dependent Visa offers a practical way for international students to bring their immediate family members to the UK during their studies. By meeting the financial and relationship requirements and following the correct application process, students can keep their families together while pursuing educational goals in the UK. Dependents also gain work rights and access to services, creating a supportive environment for students and their families.

Trisha Lee