Dependent Visa for Students Eligibility and Application Process

If you are an international student studying in the UK, your spouse, unmarried partner or children under the age of 18 may be eligible to join you by applying for a dependent visa. This type of visa is known as the dependent visa for students. It allows the dependents to stay in the UK for the same duration of the student’s visa. In this article, we will discuss the eligibility and application process for the dependent visa for students in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

The following individuals may be eligible to apply for the dependent visa for students:

Spouses or unmarried partners who are in a legitimate relationship with the student

Children under 18 years old

Individuals who have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK without relying on public funds

It is important to note that the student visa holder must have a minimum 9-month visa to be eligible to sponsor a dependent visa. Additionally, the dependent visa holder must not seek employment or work in the UK while on this visa.

Application Process

The application process for the dependent visa for students is similar to that of the student visa. However, dependents will need to complete additional application forms and provide additional documentation. The following steps are involved in the application process:

The student visa holder must first apply using the online application system and pay the application fee.

The dependent must then complete a separate online application and pay the application fee.

The dependent must book an appointment at a visa application centre to submit biometrics and supporting documents.

The dependent must provide supporting documents, including a valid passport, proof of relationship with the sponsor, and proof of financial means to support themselves during their stay in the UK.

The dependent must attend the appointment and submit the biometrics and supporting documents.

The application is reviewed by the UK Visas and Immigration department.

The processing time for the dependent visa for students varies depending on the country of application. Generally, it can take between 2-12 weeks.

Conclusion

International students who wish to have their family join them in the UK may apply for the dependent visa for students. It is important to ensure that the dependent meets the eligibility criteria and follows the application process carefully. If successful, the dependent visa holder can stay in the UK for the same duration as the student visa holder.