International students with the UK Student Visa are allowed to bring certain family members to live with them while studying in the UK. There are, however, strict eligibility requirements and financial requirements.
What is the definition of a dependent?
The following are examples of dependents:
- You and your spouse or civil partner
- Unmarried partner (must prove two years of living together in a relationship similar to marriage)
- During your stay in the UK, your child under 18 years of age (including if they were born there)
Who is allowed to bring dependents?
Dependents are not permitted for all students. Dependents can be brought if:
- If you’re a government-sponsored student on a 6-month or longer course,
- Your program lasts 9 months or more and involves research (PhDs or other doctoral qualifications, or master’s degrees with research components)
In most cases, undergraduates (bachelor’s degree holders) cannot bring dependents unless they are sponsored by the government.
Dependents’ Financial Requirements
In addition to your own student funding, you must show that you can support each dependent you have.
- In London: £845 per month, for up to 9 months, per dependent.
- In areas outside London: £680 per month per dependent for up to nine months.
For example:
A couple studying a one-year master’s degree in London with their children and a spouse would be able to do the following:
- £1,483 × 9 months (for you) = £13,347
- £845 × 9 months (for spouse) = £7,605
- £845 × 9 months (for child) = £7,605
- Fees plus tuition = £28,557 total required funds
Prior to applying, the money must be held in your account (or your dependent’s account) for 28 consecutive days.
Requirements for dependents’ documents
- Each dependent must have a valid passport
- Relationship proof:
- Certificate of marriage (for spouses)
- Certificate of birth (for children)
- Cohabitation evidence (for unmarried partners)
- A proof of funds showing the required maintenance payments
- CAS (Confirmation of Admission to Studies) as the main applicant
- The visa application form (separate for each dependent)
- Results of tuberculosis tests (depending on country of origin)
The application process
- The student applies for a UK Student Visa (or already holds one).
- Students’ dependents apply online for their own visas as “dependents of a student visa holder.”
- Dependents pay an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to gain access to the NHS in the UK.
- Biometric appointments (fingerprints and photos) at a visa application center are required.
- The decision is usually processed within a few weeks.
The rights of dependents in the UK
- Couples can work in most jobs, full-time or part-time, except as doctors or dentists in training or as professional athletes.
- In the UK, children can attend school.
- Public funds (benefits) cannot be claimed by dependents.
Conclusions
Students eligible for postgraduate or government-sponsored student visas can bring dependents to the UK. Providing proof of your relationship, meeting financial requirements, and submitting complete applications will enable you to bring your family to the UK and enjoy the benefits of living together while studying.