A student dependant visa in the UK, also known as a dependant visa, allows the partner or child of a student visa holder to accompany or join them in the country. It is a type of visa that is applicable when a student is applying for or already holds a valid student visa.
When applying for a student dependant visa UK, the main applicant, who is the student, must provide supporting documents along with their visa application. These documents may include a valid passport, birth certificate for children, and marriage or civil partnership certificate if applicable. Financial documents are also required to demonstrate the ability to financially support the dependants during their stay.
The visa application process involves attending a visa application centre to have biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, taken. Once the application is approved, the dependants will receive a biometric residence permit (BRP), which serves as evidence of their immigration permission.
It’s important to note that if the main applicant is a British citizen or has settled status in the UK, their dependants may be eligible to apply for a different visa category, such as a spouse visa or child visa, instead of a student dependent visa.
Who is Eligible for a Student Dependant Visa?
If you are a Tier 4 (General) student, you are eligible to bring your dependants to the UK. Your dependents can be:
- Your spouse or civil partner
- Unmarried partner
- Children under 18 years old
Your dependants must also meet certain requirements to be eligible for the visa.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a Student Dependant Visa UK?
To be eligible for a student dependant visa in the UK, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be the spouse or civil partner of a student who is eligible to study in the UK.
- You must be under the age of 18.
- You must have a valid passport from your home country.
- You must have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependants while you are in the UK.
- You must not have a criminal record.
You must also meet the specific requirements for the type of student visa that your partner or spouse is holding. For example, if your partner or spouse is holding a Tier 4 student visa, you will need to meet the requirements for a Tier 4 dependant visa.
To apply for a student dependant visa, you must complete an online application form and pay the application fee. You will also need to provide supporting documents, such as:
- Your passport
- Your partner or spouse’s student visa
- Proof of your relationship to your partner or spouse
- Proof of your financial support
- A police clearance certificate
The application process for a student dependant visa can take several weeks. You will be notified of the decision by email.
If your application is successful, you will be granted a visa for the same period of time as your partner or spouse’s student visa. You will be able to live and work in the UK during this time.
How to apply for a Student Dependant Visa?
To apply for a Student Dependant Visa in the UK, follow these steps:
- Determine eligibility: Ensure that you meet the requirements to be considered a dependant of a student visa holder. This applies to partners or children of individuals studying in the UK on a valid student visa.
- Gather supporting documents: Collect all the necessary supporting documents for your visa application, such as a valid passport, birth certificate (for children), civil partnership or marriage certificate (if applicable), and proof of relationship to the student visa holder. Also, gather financial documents, such as bank statements, to demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your stay.
- Pay the visa fees: Check the current visa fees, including the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Ensure that you have the necessary funds to cover these fees.
- Complete the online application: Fill out the online visa application form accurately and provide all the required information. Include details about the student visa holder, your relationship to them, and your intention to join them in the UK.
- Schedule biometric appointment: Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to provide your biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph. You must attend the appointment in person.
- Submit supporting documents: Compile all the required supporting documents, including the completed application form, and submit them either online or at the Visa Application Centre. Ensure that you provide all necessary evidence to support your application.
- Attend an interview (if required): In some cases, an interview may be required as part of the application process. If you are requested to attend an interview, make sure to prepare adequately and bring any requested documents or evidence.
- Track application progress: After submitting your application, you can track its progress online using the reference number provided.
- Collect the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If your visa application is approved, you will receive a decision letter and a 30-day vignette in your passport. Travel to the UK within the validity of the vignette. After arriving in the UK, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a designated location within 10 days.
It’s important to note that the visa application process and requirements may change over time. Therefore, it is recommended to refer to the official UK government website or consult with a qualified immigration advisor for the most up-to-date information and guidance on applying for a Student Dependant Visa in the UK.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a UK Student dependant Visa?
The documents you need to apply for a UK student dependant visa will vary depending on your individual circumstances. However, some of the most common documents required include:
- A valid passport from your home country
- A completed application form
- A visa application fee
- Proof of your relationship to the student (e.g., marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or birth certificate)
- Proof of your financial support (e.g., bank statements, payslips, or a letter from your sponsor)
- A police clearance certificate (if required)
You may also be required to provide additional documents, such as:
- Evidence of your English language skills
- Evidence of your medical insurance
- A letter from your school or university confirming your acceptance
It is important to check the UK Visas and Immigration website for the most up-to-date information on the documents required for a student dependent visa.
How long does it take to get a Student Dependant Visa?
The processing time for a UK student dependent visa varies depending on the location of application and the chosen application fee.
If you apply from outside the UK, the processing duration for a dependant visa can take up to 12 weeks. The countdown begins from the time you attend the biometric appointment and submit your application.
Fortunately, there is an option to expedite the processing by paying an additional fee for the priority service. With the priority service, you can expect to receive a decision within 5 working days.
If you apply from within the UK, the processing time is typically 8 weeks from the date of your biometric appointment. Similarly, you have the choice to pay an additional fee for either the priority or super-priority services.
The priority service reduces the processing time to 5 days, while the super-priority service guarantees a decision within just 24 hours.
It’s important to note that these processing times are general guidelines and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on processing times for a UK student dependent visa, it is recommended to refer to the official UK government website or consult with a qualified immigration advisor.
Processing Fees for a Student Dependent Visa UK
The processing fees for a student dependent visa vary depending on the location of application and the chosen processing service.
If you apply from outside the UK, the visa fee per dependant is £363. Additionally, if you visit a ‘user pay Visa Application Centre (VAC),’ you may incur an additional cost of £55.
Depending on your requirements, you may also need to pay an extra fee for services such as priority processing or document scanning and delivery.
For applications submitted from inside the UK, the processing fees for a student dependent visa are as follows:
- Standard Processing Time: 8 weeks, with a fee of £490 per dependent.
- Priority Processing Time: 5 working days, with a fee of £500 per dependent.
- Super Priority Processing Time: Weekdays – By the next day, Weekend – After 2 days, with a fee of £800 per dependent.
Please note that the availability of priority and super priority options may vary.
It’s important to check the official UK government website or consult with a qualified immigration advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the processing fees for a student dependent visa in the UK.
Can Student Dependants Work in the UK?
If your dependents are granted a student dependent visa, they are allowed to work in the UK. However, there are some restrictions on the type of work they can do.
Dependents of Tier 4 (General) students can work:
- Part-time during term-time
- Full-time during vacation periods
- In a work placement as part of their course
Dependents of Tier 4 (Child) students cannot work in the UK.
What Can Cause the Rejection of a UK Student Dependant Visa Application?
There are a number of reasons why a UK student dependent visa application may be rejected. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Inadequate documentation: The application must be accompanied by all of the required documentation, such as a valid passport, a completed application form, a visa application fee, proof of relationship to the student, proof of financial support, and a police clearance certificate (if required).
- Incorrect or incomplete information: The application must be completed accurately and completely. Any errors or omissions may result in the application being rejected.
- Insufficient financial support: The applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents while they are in the UK. This can be shown through bank statements, payslips, or a letter from a sponsor.
- Criminal record: The applicant must not have a criminal record that would make them a risk to public safety in the UK.
- Health concerns: The applicant must be in good health and not have any contagious diseases.
- Previous visa refusals: If the applicant has had a visa application refused in the past, they may be more likely to have their current application rejected.
- Unsuitable arrangements: The applicant must have suitable arrangements in place for their stay in the UK, such as accommodation and a place to study.
If your application is rejected, you will be notified of the reasons for the rejection in writing. You may be able to appeal the decision, but you should seek legal advice before doing so.
Here are some tips for avoiding a rejection of your UK student dependent visa application:
- Make sure you have all of the required documentation before you submit your application.
- Complete the application form carefully and accurately.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Attend your biometrics appointment on time.
- Get legal advice if you have any concerns about your application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying for a student dependent visa in the UK requires careful consideration and adherence to the immigration rules and procedures. Whether you are a civil partner, unmarried partner, or have children, you can apply for a dependant visa to join a student who holds a valid student visa. It is essential to gather and submit the necessary supporting documents, including a valid visa, biometric residence permit, birth certificates, and proof of relationship or civil partnership.
The application process involves completing the visa application form, paying the required visa fee, and attending a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs. Additionally, the immigration health surcharge should be paid to ensure access to necessary healthcare services.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for official financial sponsorship or government-sponsored student programs, which can simplify the application process. It is crucial to submit accurate and comprehensive supporting evidence to demonstrate your eligibility and fulfill the immigration requirements.
The processing time for a student dependent visa can vary depending on whether you apply from inside or outside the UK. By choosing priority or super-priority services, you can expedite the processing time and receive a decision within a shorter timeframe.
It is recommended to stay informed about the current immigration rules, guidelines, and visa fees set by the UK government. Seeking professional advice or consulting the official UK government website will provide accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific requirements and procedures for applying for a student dependent visa in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
[faq-schema id=”167032″]
