The United Kingdom has long been a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, diverse cultural environment, and globally recognized universities. However, studying abroad is often not a solo journey. Many international students wish to bring their family members—commonly referred to as “dependents”—with them during their period of study. The UK Student Visa offers provisions for dependents, but these come with specific eligibility criteria and responsibilities.
This article provides a detailed overview of the current rules governing dependents on a UK Student Visa, including who qualifies as a dependent, the eligibility criteria for sponsors (students), visa conditions, application procedures, and the rights and restrictions for dependents once they are in the UK.
Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
Under the UK immigration rules, the following individuals are typically considered dependents of a Student Visa holder:
- Spouse or civil partner
- Unmarried partner (must have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years)
- Children under the age of 18
Other family members, such as parents, siblings, or extended relatives, are not considered dependents under the Student Visa route and must apply under different visa categories if they wish to enter the UK.
Who Can Bring Dependents?
Not all student visa holders are eligible to bring dependents. The UK government has specific criteria regarding the sponsor (the student) to prevent misuse of the system.
As of the rules implemented in January 2024, only certain categories of international students can bring dependents to the UK, including:
Eligible Students:
- Those enrolled in full-time postgraduate courses that are at least 9 months long and are classified as research-based or PhD-level qualifications (RQF level 8).
- Students who are government-sponsored for a course that lasts 6 months or more.
- Doctorate Extension Scheme participants.
Ineligible Students:
- Undergraduate students.
- Postgraduate students on taught Master’s courses, unless they are part of a research programme.
- Students on short-term or English language courses.
Financial Requirements
To prevent undue pressure on public resources, the UK Home Office requires proof that both the main applicant (student) and their dependents can financially support themselves during their stay.
For each dependent:
- If the student is studying in London: £845 per month for each month of the course (up to 9 months) = maximum of £7,605 per dependent.
- If the student is studying outside London: £680 per month (up to 9 months) = maximum of £6,120 per dependent.
These amounts must be shown in cash savings, held in a regulated financial institution, and maintained for at least 28 consecutive days before the visa application.
Application Process
When to Apply:
Dependents can apply at the same time as the main applicant or after the student has been granted a visa.
How to Apply:
- The application is submitted online, using the “Student Dependent Visa” route.
- Each dependent must complete a separate application and pay the application fee (currently £490 per dependent as of 2025).
- The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) also applies: around £776 per person per year.
Required Documents:
- Proof of relationship: Marriage or birth certificate.
- Proof of financial means.
- Copy of the student’s CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
- A valid passport.
- TB test certificate, if from a country where it’s required.
Conditions and Rights of Dependents in the UK
Once granted a visa, dependents have specific rights and limitations while residing in the UK.
Spouse or Partner:
- Work Rights: They are allowed to work full-time, including self-employment. However, they cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach.
- Study Rights: They can also undertake part-time or full-time study.
Children:
- Children under 18 can attend school for free at state-funded schools.
- Children who turn 18 during the course must apply to switch to a different visa category (e.g., student or skilled worker visa) if they wish to remain.
Accommodation Requirements
Dependents must live with the main applicant, and accommodation must be suitable for all members of the household. For example, a family of four (two adults and two children) cannot live in a single-bedroom apartment. In some cases, proof of accommodation may be required, especially if dependents apply after the student has already entered the UK.
Duration of Stay
Dependents are granted visas with the same validity period as the main Student Visa holder. If the student’s course is extended or curtailed, the dependent’s visa will need to be adjusted accordingly. If the student leaves the UK before their visa expires, the dependent is also expected to leave.
Restrictions and Considerations
While dependents enjoy several privileges, there are also important restrictions and responsibilities to consider:
- No access to public funds: Dependents cannot claim welfare benefits or housing assistance.
- Compliance with visa conditions: Any violation (e.g., overstaying, unauthorized work) can result in penalties, including deportation.
- Limited eligibility for Permanent Residency (ILR): Time spent as a dependent on a Student Visa does not count toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in most cases.
Switching and Extensions
Dependents can apply to extend their visa if the student is continuing studies or beginning a new eligible course. They can also apply to switch to other visa categories from within the UK (e.g., Skilled Worker, Student Visa in their own right), provided they meet the requirements.
Post-Study Work (Graduate Visa)
After completing their studies, students may apply for a Graduate Visa to stay in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD holders). However, dependents are only eligible to switch to the Graduate route if they were already in the UK as dependents under the Student route.
New applications for dependents under the Graduate route are not permitted—meaning a student who marries after graduating cannot bring their spouse under this visa.
Common Challenges and Mistakes
Common Pitfalls:
- Not meeting financial requirements: Applications are often refused due to insufficient or incorrectly documented funds.
- Applying too early or too late: Timing the application is crucial, especially if joining an ongoing course.
- Ineligible dependents: Attempting to bring parents, adult children, or friends often leads to refusal.
- Incorrect documentation: Birth certificates, translations, or cohabitation proofs are often incomplete or improperly formatted.
Conclusion
Bringing dependents to the UK on a Student Visa can provide much-needed family support and make the international study experience more fulfilling. However, the rules are strict, and eligibility is limited mainly to postgraduate researchers and government-sponsored students. Each application must be meticulously prepared, with proper documentation and financial proof, to ensure success.
Before applying, it’s advisable to check the most recent immigration rules on the UK Home Office website or consult a certified immigration advisor, especially as regulations can change frequently. Proper planning, legal compliance, and understanding of each family member’s rights and responsibilities are key to a successful stay in the UK.