Understanding UK Student Dependant Visa
The UK Student Dependant Visa allows your family members to join you in the UK while you study. This visa enables your spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, and children under 18 to live with you during your studies, providing emotional support and maintaining family unity.
Who Can Apply for a Dependant Visa?
You can bring dependants to the UK if you are:
- Studying a postgraduate course (Master's or PhD) lasting 9 months or more
- Studying a government-sponsored course lasting 6 months or more
- Studying a course at a higher education institution with a track record of compliance
- On a Doctorate Extension Scheme
Eligible Dependants
The following family members can apply as your dependants:
- Spouse: Your legally married partner
- Civil Partner: Your registered civil partner
- Unmarried Partner: Your partner in a genuine relationship (must prove 2+ years together)
- Children: Your children under 18 years old
Requirements for Dependant Visa
Main Student Requirements
- You must hold a valid Student visa or have applied for one
- Your course must meet the dependant visa criteria
- You must have sufficient funds to support your dependants
- You must provide accommodation details for your family
Financial Requirements
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your dependants:
- For each dependant: £845 per month (up to 9 months)
- London courses: Additional £1,334 per month for main student
- Outside London: Additional £1,023 per month for main student
- Total calculation: Course fees + living costs for student + living costs for each dependant
Relationship Evidence
For spouses and civil partners, you need:
- Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate
- Evidence of genuine relationship (photos, joint accounts, correspondence)
- Proof of intention to live together in the UK
For unmarried partners, you need:
- Evidence of living together for at least 2 years
- Joint bank accounts, utility bills, rental agreements
- Photos and correspondence showing genuine relationship
- Statements from friends and family supporting your relationship
Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents:
- Valid passport for each dependant
- Birth certificates for children
- Marriage certificate or relationship evidence
- Financial documents (bank statements, scholarship letters)
- Accommodation details and tenancy agreement
- Main student's CAS and visa documents
- Passport-sized photographs
Step 2: Complete Online Application
Each dependant must complete a separate application:
- Visit the UK Government visa application website
- Select "Student Dependant" visa type
- Fill in personal details and course information
- Upload all required documents
- Pay application fee (£490 per dependant)
- Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (£470 per year per dependant)
Step 3: Biometric Appointment
Book and attend biometric appointments:
- Schedule appointment at a visa application center
- Provide fingerprints and photograph
- Submit original documents for verification
Processing Times and Fees
Standard processing times and fees (2025):
- Application Fee: £490 per dependant
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £470 per year per dependant
- Processing Time: 3-8 weeks (standard service)
- Priority Service: 5 working days (+£500)
- Super Priority: Next working day (+£1,000)
Rights and Restrictions
What Dependants Can Do
- Live in the UK for the duration of the main student's visa
- Work full-time or part-time (no restrictions)
- Study in the UK (may need separate visa for full-time study)
- Access NHS healthcare (after paying IHS)
- Travel in and out of the UK freely
What Dependants Cannot Do
- Access public funds (benefits, housing assistance)
- Start a business without proper visa
- Stay in the UK if the main student's visa expires
- Work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer
Children's Education
Children on dependant visas can:
- Attend state schools (free education)
- Attend private schools (fees apply)
- Study part-time or full-time
- Access student support services
Common Application Mistakes
- Insufficient Funds: Not meeting financial requirements
- Missing Documents: Incomplete documentation
- Relationship Evidence: Insufficient proof of genuine relationship
- Timing Issues: Applying too early or too late
- Course Eligibility: Main student's course doesn't qualify for dependants
Tips for Success
- Apply Together: Submit all applications simultaneously
- Strong Evidence: Provide comprehensive relationship documentation
- Financial Planning: Ensure sufficient funds are available
- Professional Help: Consider immigration advisor assistance
- Accommodation: Secure suitable housing for your family
Visa Renewal and Extension
Dependant visas are tied to the main student's visa:
- Dependants must apply for extension when the main student extends
- Same financial requirements apply for renewals
- Children over 18 may need to apply for their own visa
- Relationship evidence may be required again
Conclusion
The UK Student Dependant Visa provides an excellent opportunity for international students to bring their families to the UK. While the application process requires careful planning and substantial financial resources, the benefits of having your family with you during your studies are invaluable. Ensure you meet all requirements and provide comprehensive documentation for the best chance of success.