Significant changes were made to the UK immigration system in January 2024, particularly affecting student visas and their dependents. Under the previous rules, students pursuing postgraduate courses could easily bring family members to the UK. However, the 2024 changes introduced stricter financial requirements and more defined eligibility criteria for dependents. These updates are designed to limit the number of dependent visas issued, but they may pose challenges for international students hoping to bring family members with them during their studies. This guide outlines the new requirements, application process, and frequently asked questions about the UK Student Dependent Visa under the 2024 rules.
For those outside the UK considering this route, please be mindful of the course you choose to study in the UK, as this will either allow or restrict your ability to bring dependents under this visa. Certain postgraduate courses and government-sponsored programs will permit dependents, while shorter or undergraduate courses may not. Contact us for a consultation to find out whether your chosen course qualifies for bringing dependents to the UK.
Who Can Apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa in 2024?
A dependent partner or dependent child of a Student can apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa if the main applicant is:
- Studying a postgraduate course (RQF level 7 or above) for a minimum duration of 9 months.
- Enrolled in a government-sponsored course lasting at least 6 months.
Dependents can include:
- Spouses or Civil Partners: Legally married partners of the student visa holder.
- Unmarried Partners: If you’ve been in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years, you may qualify.
- Children Under 18: Your dependent children can accompany you, including children born after you entered the UK or during your visa term.
When Is a UK Student Dependent Visa Allowed?
Not all students can sponsor dependents. Dependents are allowed when the main applicant:
- Is studying a postgraduate course (RQF level 7 or above) for at least 9 months.
- Holds a government-sponsored visa for a course lasting 6 months or longer.
Under these rules, introduced as part of the post-2021 immigration reforms, dependents are entitled to stay in the UK for the duration of the main applicant’s course.
A Potential Route to Bring Your Children to Study in the UK
If your main goal is to have your children study in a UK school, there are additional visa routes available beyond the Student Dependent Visa. You can explore the Child Student Visa, designed specifically for children aged 4-17 years who want to study at an independent school in the UK.
To qualify for a Child Student Visa, your child must:
- Have an offer of a place at a UK independent school.
- The school must hold a sponsor licence issued by the UK Home Office. If the school does not have a sponsor licence, they can either apply for one or you could consider enrolling as a student yourself, which would allow you to bring your child as a dependent.
- Be able to meet the financial requirements, demonstrating that you can support them during their studies without public funds.
- Have consent from both parents or legal guardians for the child to study in the UK.
Parents or guardians of children under 12 may be eligible for a Parent of a Child Student Visa, allowing one parent to accompany and stay with their child while they study in the UK. However, it’s important to note that only one parent can accompany the child, and the other parent must remain in the home country. If the child is above 12 years old, neither parent is eligible to accompany the child under this visa route.
Contact us for a consultation to explore the best visa options for your family, whether you’re a student looking to bring dependents or a parent seeking opportunities for your child’s education in the UK.
What Are the Financial Requirements for the UK Student Dependent Visa in 2024?
One of the key requirements for a UK Student Dependent Visa is proving that you can support your dependents without public funds. Here are the financial thresholds:
- £845 per month per dependent if studying in London.
- £680 per month per dependent if studying outside of London.
You’ll need to show that these funds have been in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying for the visa. This rule ensures that students and their families can cover living expenses in the UK.
Can UK Student Visa Dependents Work in 2024?
Yes, one of the main benefits of the UK Student Dependent Visa is that spouses or partners are typically allowed to work full-time. The work rights of dependents depend on the main student’s visa and course length. However, children who come as dependents are not allowed to work but can attend school.
How Do I Apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa in 2024?
To apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa, each dependent needs to complete an online visa application, either at the same time as the main applicant or afterward. The key documents you’ll need include:
- A valid passport and documents proving the relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
- Proof of financial support meeting the minimum requirements.
- The CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number from the student visa holder.
After submitting the online application, dependents will also need to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs for their residence permit.
How Long Does a UK Student Dependent Visa Last?
The dependent visa is typically granted for the same duration as the main student visa holder’s. When the student visa expires, the dependent visa also ends unless extended along with the main visa holder’s.
Can My Child Stay as a Dependent in the UK After Turning 18?
No, in most cases, children cannot remain as dependents once they turn 18. However, if they were already in the UK as dependents before turning 18, they may be eligible to stay under special circumstances.
What Happens to Dependents After the Main Student Completes Their Course?
Once the main student finishes their course and switches to a different visa (such as the Graduate Route visa), dependents may also be eligible to switch their visa category. This allows dependents to remain in the UK after the course ends, but the rules for this process can vary.
What Should I Do if the UK Student Dependent Visa Application Is Refused?
If your UK Student Dependent Visa application is refused, it’s important to review the refusal notice to understand the reasons. Common issues include failing to meet the financial requirements or insufficient proof of relationship. You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply if the refusal was due to missing documentation.
How Long Does It Take to Get a UK Student Dependent Visa in 2024?
The processing time for a UK Student Dependent Visa is usually around 3-8 weeks, depending on where you apply and the complexity of the case. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Can Dependents Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Dependents of student visa holders are generally not eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) through this visa route. However, once the student switches to a visa category that leads to ILR, such as the Skilled Worker visa, the dependents may be able to apply for ILR after meeting the residency requirements.
Conclusion
The UK Student Dependent Visa allows international students to bring their families to the UK during their studies, offering the opportunity for spouses and children to live together while in the UK. Understanding the financial requirements, eligibility criteria, and application process is essential to ensure a smooth visa experience. If you’re considering applying, make sure all documentation is in order and that you’re aware of the timelines involved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work on a UK Student Dependent Visa in 2024?
- Yes, spouses or partners can typically work full-time, depending on the main student’s visa and course level.
2. How much money do I need for a UK Student Dependent Visa in 2024?
- You’ll need to show £845 per month per dependent if studying in London, or £680 per month if studying outside of London.
3. What happens if I don’t meet the financial requirements?
- If you cannot meet the financial requirements, your dependent visa application may be refused. You can reapply once you have the necessary funds.
