Introduction

Studying in the UK is a major milestone, often involving years of planning, commitment, and significant investment. For many international students, leaving family behind while pursuing higher education abroad can be emotionally challenging and practically difficult. That’s where the Student Dependant Visa UK comes in—a visa route that allows certain students to bring their close family members with them during the course of their studies.

This visa route is designed to keep families together. It recognises that students don’t live in a vacuum and that support systems, especially spouses and children, can play a crucial role in a student’s academic success and well-being. The UK government provides a clear pathway for dependents to live alongside students for the duration of their studies, under specific eligibility conditions.

However, immigration rules can be complicated, and the Home Office maintains strict requirements when it comes to financial means, proof of relationships, and course types. The Student Dependant Visa process in the UK is not just a formality—it requires a thorough understanding of what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to ensure a complete and accurate application.

At Axis Solicitors, we specialise in UK immigration and visa law. We’ve helped countless students and their families navigate this complex process successfully. This blog post is a complete guide tailored to help you understand the ins and outs of bringing your family to the UK on a Student Dependant Visa. You’ll learn:

• Who can apply and under what conditions

• What documents you’ll need

• How the application process works

• How long it takes

• Common mistakes that lead to rejections

• The exact fees involved and any ongoing costs

In this blog, you’ll have a clear, confident grasp of what it takes to bring your spouse or children to the UK while you study. Whether you’re planning ahead or preparing to submit your application, this resource is built to save you time, reduce stress, and avoid costly delays or rejections.

Eligibility Criteria

Not every international student studying in the UK is eligible to bring dependants with them. The UK government has specific criteria that determine whether you’re allowed to include family members in your visa plans. Failing to meet these conditions could lead to visa refusals not just for your dependants, but potentially for you as well.

Eligible Students

As of the latest guidance from the Home Office, only certain types of students can bring dependants to the UK on a Student Visa. You are eligible if you are:

• A government-sponsored student enrolled on a course that lasts six months or more,
  or

• Studying a postgraduate level course (RQF level 7 or above) that lasts nine months or more at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.

This means that undergraduate students (such as those pursuing a bachelor’s degree) at their own expense generally cannot bring dependants unless they are sponsored by a government.

So if you’re applying for a taught Master’s degree that is not research-heavy, your spouse or children may not be eligible to apply as your dependants.

Who Counts as a Dependant?

Under UK immigration rules, a “dependant” in this context refers to:

• Your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner (must have lived together for at least 2 years in a relationship akin to marriage)

• Your child or children under the age of 18 (at the time of application)

Extended family members such as parents, siblings, or other relatives cannot be included as dependants on a Student Dependant Visa.

Special Notes on Children

If you’re applying to bring children, there are additional points to consider:

• Both parents usually need to be present in the UK unless sole responsibility for the child can be clearly proven.

• If only one parent is applying or already in the UK, you’ll need to provide extensive documentation showing why the other parent is not accompanying the child (e.g., legal custody documents, death certificate, etc.).

• If the child turns 18 while already in the UK as a dependant, they may still be able to extend their visa—provided they’re not living independently and continue to meet other requirements.

Documents Required for a Student Dependant Visa UK

Once you’ve confirmed that you and your family members are eligible for the Student Dependant Visa, the next critical step is gathering the correct documentation. The UK Home Office is strict about paperwork. Incomplete or inconsistent documents are among the top reasons for visa refusals.

Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need for each type of Student Dependant Visa.

For All Applicants 

Every applicant—whether it’s the student or a dependant—must submit:

• A valid passport or other travel document

• TB (Tuberculosis) test results

• Proof of relationship to the main applicant (see below for details)

For Partners (Spouse, Civil Partner, or Unmarried Partner)

You’ll need to provide:

• Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate (for married or civil partners)

• For unmarried partners, documents that prove:
  • You’ve lived together in a genuine relationship for at least 2 consecutive years

  • Joint tenancy agreements, shared utility bills, bank statements, or council tax records

• Letter of consent if there are any children involved, especially if only one parent is applying

For Children (Under 18)

You’ll need:

• The child’s birth certificate, showing both parents’ names

• Consent letter from both parents or legal guardians confirming permission for the child to travel and live in the UK

• Proof of custody or sole responsibility, if only one parent is accompanying the child

• Proof of address for the child, and potentially school enrolment information if applicable

Financial Requirement Documents

One of the most important areas—and the one most prone to mistakes—is proving you can financially support your dependants without claiming public funds.

You must show:

• £680 per month per dependant, for each month of your course (up to a maximum of 9 months)
  • That’s a total of £6,120 per dependant if your course is 9 months or longer

• The money must be held in your bank account or your dependant’s for at least 28 consecutive days before the application date

• If your financial sponsor (like a government or international organisation) is covering your dependants, you’ll need an official letter confirming this

Additional Documents

Depending on your situation, you may also need:

• English translations of any documents not in English or Welsh (done by a certified translator)

• Previous UK visa copies, if any

• UK accommodation details, such as tenancy agreement or university housing confirmation

• CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) copy from the main applicant’s university

Maintaining all the documents for the application can be troublesome. For that we at Axis Solicitors are always here to serve you to the best of our abilities.

Student Dependant Visa UK Fees – Full Breakdown

Student Dependant Visa in the UK as an international student comes with several costs that you need to plan for. Understanding these fees in advance can help avoid surprises and ensure your application isn’t delayed due to underpayment.

Here’s a full breakdown of the fees involved in the UK Student Dependant Visa route.

1. Visa Application Fee

The standard application fee for each dependant is:

• £490 if applying from outside the UK

• £490 if applying from within the UK (to extend or switch visas)

This fee applies per person, not per family, so if you’re bringing a spouse and one child, you’re looking at £980 total just for application fees.

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The Immigration Health Surcharge allows the Student Dependant Visa holders to access the NHS (National Health Service) during their stay in the UK. With a mandatory fee.

• £776 per person per year

Here’s how that adds up depending on the course length:

The IHS must be paid in full upfront, and is non-refundable once the visa is granted—even if your dependant decides not to come to the UK.

3. Priority and Super Priority Services

If you’re in a rush for your student dependant visa, you can opt for a faster decision by paying for:

• Priority service: £500 (decision in 5 working days)

• Super priority service: £1,000 (decision by the next working day)

4. Other Costs to Consider

There are additional expenses that may apply:

• Biometrics appointment: Usually included in the visa fee but can cost extra at some visa centres (approx. £75–£100)

• Document translation: £30–£60 per page, if your documents are not in English or Welsh

• Legal assistance or solicitor fees: If you’re using a law firm like Axis Solicitors to assist with the process, this is a separate cost—but often worth it to avoid rejections and speed up approval

Total Cost for One Spouse and One Child (2-Year Course)

This does not include any legal assistance, translation, or travel costs.

Living in the UK as a Student Dependant – Rights and Limitations

Once your dependants arrive in the UK, it’s essential to understand what they can and cannot do under the terms of their visa. While the Student Dependant Visa provides a fair amount of flexibility, it also comes with clear boundaries—especially when it comes to work, study, and access to public services.

This section outlines the rights, limitations, and key things to be aware of when living in the UK as a dependant of a Student Visa holder.

1. Right to Work (Spouse or Partner)

One of the main benefits of the Student Dependant Visa is that spouses or partners are generally allowed to work full-time in the UK.

They can:

• Work for any employer (part-time or full-time)

• Be self-employed

• Take up internships or work placements

• Start a business

• Work in almost any industry

However, they cannot:

• Work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach

• Claim public funds or benefits

2. Right to Study

Student Dependant Visa holders including partners and children—can also study in the UK.

• Partners can enrol in part-time or full-time courses, including university-level education

• Children can attend state-funded or private schools, depending on their age and eligibility

School-age children (5–16) are entitled to free primary and secondary education through the UK state school system.

3. No Access to Public Funds

Dependants are not entitled to claim public benefits, including:

• Universal Credit

• Housing Benefit

• Child Benefit

• Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)

Attempting to claim public funds could lead to immigration violations and affect future visa applications or extensions.

4. Healthcare Access

Dependants who pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are entitled to use the National Health Service (NHS) just like UK residents. This includes:

• GP (doctor) services

• Emergency treatment

• Hospital services

• Maternity care

Some services may still involve prescription charges or dental/optical fees, but essential healthcare is covered.

5. Travel Rights

Dependant visa holders can travel in and out of the UK freely while their visa is valid. However:

• They must ensure their visa is valid for re-entry

• Time spent outside the UK doesn’t “pause” their visa duration

• Frequent, extended trips abroad could raise questions during extensions or future immigration applications

6. Housing and Accommodation

Dependants are responsible for finding suitable accommodation, either:

• With the main student visa holder

• In university family housing (limited availability)

• Through private rental options

Some landlords may request evidence of visa status, employment, or a UK-based guarantor.

7. Schooling and Childcare

If you’re bringing children:

• Schooling is mandatory for children aged 5 to 16

• Children are entitled to free state education

• Local councils assign schools based on your home address

• Nurseries and childcare services may involve additional costs

8. Impact on Future Immigration Applications

Living in the UK as a dependant doesn’t automatically lead to settlement ILR – Indefinite Leave to Remain, but it can help build a pathway depending on future visa categories (e.g., Skilled Worker, Graduate Visa, etc.)

Keeping track of everything can be confusing. But we at Axis Solicitors can answer all your questions with the help of our legal experts. Contact us for consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. Can dependants apply for a visa at the same time as the student?

Yes, dependants have the option to apply for the student dependant visa concurrently with the main student. Alternatively, they can apply after the student has successfully obtained their visa. However, they cannot apply before the main student’s application.

2. What key documents are needed for a student dependant visa?

Essential documents include the dependant’s passport, official proof of the relationship to the student (like a marriage or birth certificate), evidence of the main student’s valid UK Student Visa, and proof of sufficient funds for the dependant’s maintenance. A Tuberculosis test certificate might also be required.

3. What evidence of funds is required for dependants?

The main student must demonstrate sufficient funds to support both themselves and their dependants. For each dependant, this is typically £680 per month for up to nine months. These funds need to have been held in a bank account for a continuous 28-day period.

4. Can a spouse or partner of a student work in the UK?

Yes, if the main student is enrolled in a postgraduate course at RQF level 7 or higher at a recognised UK sponsor, their spouse or partner is usually permitted to work in the UK without restrictions on the type of job. This right is linked to the student dependant visa’s validity.

5. Can children of student dependant visa holders attend UK schools for free?

Yes, children between the ages of 5 and 16 who are in the UK as dependants are generally eligible to attend state-funded schools without any tuition fees. However, admission can depend on the school’s location and the availability of places.

6. Is it possible for dependants to switch to other visa categories while in the UK?

In some cases, dependants might be able to apply for a different UK visa category besides student dependant visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa, provided they meet all the necessary eligibility requirements for that specific visa.

7. What happens if the main student leaves their course early?

If the student visa holder leaves their course prematurely, the dependant’s visa could be curtailed. This might require the dependant to leave the UK or to explore other valid visa options for remaining.

8. Can extended family members be included as dependants on a Student Dependant Visa?

No, the UK Student Dependant Visa category is specifically for the student’s spouse, civil or unmarried partner (who can prove a relationship of at least two years), and their children who are under the age of 18. Other family members are not eligible under this visa route.

How Axis Solicitors Can Help

Applying for a UK student dependant visa involves more than just filling out forms — it requires understanding the law, presenting the right evidence, and avoiding errors that can lead to delays or refusals.

At Axis Solicitors, we combine in-depth immigration knowledge with practical experience to help families stay together and succeed in the UK. With offices in London, Birmingham, and Manchester, we’re ready to support you wherever you are. Contact us today.