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Student Visa in the UK - How to Bring Your Family
Studying abroad is an exciting and transformative experience. However, being far from home can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you are away from your loved ones. If you are planning to study in the UK, the good news is that you may be able to bring your family with you.
This article will guide you through the process of bringing your family members to the UK on a student visa, offering clear, simple, and practical steps to help you along the way.
Whether you are married, have children, or both, we will break down the eligibility criteria, required documents, financial responsibilities, and the application process. We want to ensure that you feel prepared and confident as you take this important step.
Who Can Bring Their Family to the UK on a Student Visa?
If you are planning to study in the UK and want to bring your family with you, there are certain conditions you must meet. The UK allows international students to bring their dependants only under specific circumstances.
To bring family members to the UK, you must meet specific criteria:
- You are studying at postgraduate level for at least nine months.
- Your course is a PhD or other doctoral qualification.
- You receive funding from a recognised government or international scholarship programme.
Undergraduate students usually cannot bring family members unless exceptional circumstances apply.
Who is considered a family? Family members are:
- Your spouse or civil partner.
- Unmarried partners who have lived together for at least two years.
- Children under 18 years of age.
Relatives such as parents or siblings cannot be brought as dependants.
If your family members do not meet the requirements, such as being under the correct age or relationship status, they may not be eligible to join you. It is important to check your specific circumstances, as there may be exceptions or additional criteria based on your visa type and course length.
If you are an undergraduate student, unfortunately, you cannot typically bring dependants unless your course is at least 9 months long and you meet additional financial requirements.
Documents You Need for Your Family’s Application
Once you have confirmed that you are eligible to bring your family, you need to prepare the necessary documents for their visa application. This is a crucial step and having the right paperwork can help speed up the process.
The documents required for your family’s application generally include:
Proof of Relationship: You will need to provide official documents proving your relationship with each dependant. For example:
- A marriage certificate for your spouse or civil partner.
- A birth certificate for each child.
- Adoption papers if you have legally adopted a child.
Financial Evidence: The UK government requires you to demonstrate that you have enough money to support your dependants without needing public funds. This includes:
- Bank statements showing that you have the required amount in your account.
- Proof of any scholarship or financial support you receive.
- A letter from your university confirming your funding or support, if applicable.
Proof of Your Student Status: You will also need to provide:
- Your valid student visa or confirmation of your enrolment in a UK institution.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is issued by your university.
Accommodation Details: You will need to show that you have suitable accommodation for your family in the UK. This could be:
- A rental agreement,
- Proof of a room in university halls, or
- A letter from your landlord confirming that your family will be living with you.
It is essential that all documents are accurate and up to date. If any documents are not in English, you must provide a certified translation. Make sure that the translation is clear and meets UK Home Office standards.
Financial Requirements for Bringing Your Family
One of the key aspects of bringing your family to the UK is proving that you can financially support them. The UK government has set specific financial requirements that you must meet to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your living expenses and those of your dependants.
You will need to show:
- £680 per month for each dependant.
- This amount must be separate from the money required for your own living expenses, which is typically £1,334 per month (for students outside London) or £1,523 per month (for students in London).
For example, if you are studying for a full year and wish to bring your spouse and one child to the UK, you would need to show:
- £9,207 for your own living expenses (£1,334 x 7 months).
- £16,320 for your family (£680 x 12 months for two dependants).
In total, you would need to show a minimum of £25,527 to cover both your expenses and those of your dependants.
The funds must have been in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before you submit the visa application. The UK government will check your financial history, so ensure that your bank statements clearly show the required amount.
Country Listed Under the 'Differential Evidence Requirement
The UK Home Office has designated certain countries under the ‘differential evidence requirement’ for Student visa applications. Applicants from these countries are not required to submit financial evidence with their visa application. However, they must still have the necessary funds available and be prepared to provide evidence if requested.
Country | Country | Country |
Australia | Hungary | Qatar |
Austria | Iceland | Romania |
Bahrain | Indonesia | Serbia |
Barbados | Ireland | Singapore |
Belgium | Italy | Slovakia |
Botswana | Japan | Slovenia |
Brazil | Kazakhstan | South Korea |
Brunei | Kuwait | Spain |
Bulgaria | Latvia | Sweden |
Cambodia | Liechtenstein | Switzerland |
Canada | Lithuania | Taiwan |
Chile | Luxembourg | Thailand |
China | Macao | Tunisia |
Croatia | Malaysia | United Arab Emirates |
Republic of Cyprus | Malta | United States of America |
Czech Republic | Mauritius |
|
Denmark | Mexico |
|
Dominican Republic | Netherlands |
|
Estonia | New Zealand |
|
Finland | Norway |
|
France | Oman |
|
Germany | Peru |
|
Greece | Poland |
|
Hong Kong | Portugal |
|
As of the latest update, the countries and territories under this requirement include:
Please note that this list is subject to change. It is advisable to consult the official UK government website or the latest immigration rules for the most current information.
Even if you are from one of these countries, it is essential to have all necessary financial documents prepared. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) may request this evidence during the application process. Failure to provide the required documents upon request can result in visa refusal.
For detailed guidance on financial requirements and the application process, refer to the official UK government resources.
How to Apply for a Dependant Visa
Applying for a dependant visa is a straightforward process, but it involves several steps. It is essential to complete each step carefully and correctly.
When applying for your child or partner, it is important to follow the correct steps to ensure a smooth application process. Each applicant must submit a separate online application and provide the necessary information, such as the student’s application number.
Additionally, they will need to schedule a biometric appointment and submit supporting documentation. For those looking to speed up the process, there is an option to request faster decision-making for an additional fee.
Below is a step-by-step guide outlining how to apply and what is required at each stage of the process.
- Submit Separate Applications
· Your child and partner must complete individual online applications.
· They must apply as either your child or your partner.
- Provide the Student’s Application Number
· They will need your Global Web Form (GWF) or Unique Application Number (UAN).
· These numbers are found in the emails and letters from the Home Office.
- Schedule a Biometric Appointment
· They must book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) location.
· At this appointment, they will provide fingerprints and a photo.
- Submit Supporting Documentation
· Supporting documents can be scanned at their UKVCAS appointment or uploaded online.
- Fast-Track the Application (Optional)
· If they want a faster decision, they can request it during the application process.
· If eligible, they must pay additional fees for expedited processing.
- Important Note
· Follow all instructions carefully to ensure the application process runs smoothly.
Alternatively, they can download the application form and instructions; if they require assistance filling out the form, they can read the instructions because it will also tell them where they need to submit the completed form.
Once submitted, the application will typically take 2-8 weeks to process, depending on your country of origin. It is important to apply as early as possible, as visa processing times can vary.
They may need to pay £19.20 to have their biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.
Warning
Until they receive a decision, they are not allowed to leave the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. If they do, their application will be withdrawn.
Life in the UK with Your Family
Settling in the UK as a family can take time, but there are many support networks available. You can find local community groups, online forums, and university-based support to help you settle in. Make sure to also look into family-friendly accommodation options in your area, which can help ease the transition.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While bringing your family to the UK is entirely possible, there are a few challenges that international students commonly face. Recognising these challenges in advance and knowing how to tackle them can help reduce stress.
Some of the common issues are:
- Document Delays: Some students may face delays in gathering all the necessary paperwork. To avoid this, start the process early, and make sure all documents are prepared and verified.
- Financial Challenges: Meeting the financial requirements can sometimes be difficult. Consider getting financial advice or support from your university, which may offer scholarships or assistance in securing funds.
- Accommodation Issues: Finding a suitable place to live with your family can take time. Start searching for accommodation as soon as possible, and consider options that are close to your university.
If you encounter any challenges during the process, it is always a good idea to consult a professional immigration adviser. They can offer expert advice and ensure that you are following the correct procedures.
Conclusion
Bringing your family to the UK while studying can make your experience much more rewarding and fulfilling. With proper planning, understanding the requirements, and following the application steps carefully, you can ensure a smooth transition for your family.
We hope this guide has provided you with a clear and simple overview of the process. If you have any uncertainties or need further advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to your university’s international office or consult an immigration expert. Start planning early, gather the required documents, and soon you’ll have your family by your side, making your time in the UK even more special.
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