United Kingdom Dependent Student Visa

The UK Student Dependent Visa allows the spouse/partner and children of an international student (main applicant) to join them in the UK during their course of study.

✅Who Can Apply as a Dependent?

You can apply as a dependent if the main applicant is:

• A full-time postgraduate student (RQF Level 7 or above) studying for 9 months or longer at a UK university.
• A government-sponsored student studying a course longer than 6 months.

Eligible dependents include:

• Husband, wife, or civil partner
• Unmarried partner (must have lived together for at least 2 years)
• Children under 18 years of age
• Children over 18 already in the UK as dependents

✅Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• Dependent must have a genuine relationship with the student.
• Main applicant must meet the course and sponsorship criteria.
• Dependent must intend to live with the main applicant in the UK.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

For Each Dependent:

• Valid Passport
• Proof of Relationship
  • Marriage or birth certificate
  • Evidence of cohabitation (for unmarried partners)
• Proof of Financial Requirement:
  • £845/month (inside London)
  • £680/month (outside London)
    (For up to 9 months per dependent – funds must be held for 28 days in a bank account)
• Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate (if applicable based on country)
• Proof of Accommodation and Intent to Stay Together
• Visa Application Form (completed online)
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035/year

Additional Recommended Documents:

• Photos from marriage or family life
• Sponsor’s (student’s) passport copy and visa
• Enrolment letter from the university
• Invitation letter from the student (confirming support and accommodation)

Step 3: Apply Online

• Apply at: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/family-members
• Choose “Apply as a dependent of a Student Visa holder”
• Fill out the online application form

Step 4: Book Biometrics Appointment

• Attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
• Provide fingerprints and photograph

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

• Processing time: around 3 weeks
• Priority services available in many countries (extra cost)

Step 6: Travel and Join in the UK

• If approved, the dependent receives a visa vignette to enter the UK.
• Upon arrival, collect the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

✅Important Notes

• Dependent visa holders can:
  • Work full-time (except as a sportsperson or coach)
  • Study
  • Access NHS healthcare (after paying IHS)
• Dependent visa is valid for the same duration as the student’s visa.
• Children must live with both parents unless special circumstances apply.

✅ Note: All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Financial documents must meet UKVI's strict formatting and maturity rules.