The UK government introduced significant restrictions on bringing dependants under the Student visa route. Previously, most international students studying for six months or more could bring dependants (partners and children) to the UK.
Under the new policy, only two groups of students remain eligible to bring family members:
- Government-sponsored students on courses of at least six months, and
- Postgraduate students enrolled in a research-based programme of at least nine months.
These changes are part of the government’s broader effort to reduce net migration and ensure the Student visa route focuses on study rather than pathways to settlement.
Who Can Still Bring Dependants?
Under current rules, students may bring dependants only if they fall into one of these two categories.
1. Government-Sponsored Students
- You must be fully sponsored by your national government (not a university or private organisation).
- The sponsorship must cover both tuition fees and living costs.
- Your course must last at least six months.
2. Postgraduate Research Students
- You must be enrolled in a full-time postgraduate course at RQF Level 7 or above, such as a Master’s by Research or PhD.
- The course must last at least nine months.
- It must be primarily research-based rather than taught.
- Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) must confirm that the course is research-based.
Transition Rules for Existing Students:
Students who started their courses remain eligible to bring dependants under the old rules, provided:
- Their current visa remains valid, and
- Dependants either already hold leave as dependants or are applying to join them based on the earlier policy.
This “non-retrospective” approach ensures students already in the UK are not suddenly separated from their families.
Check Also: Document Checklist for UK Spouse Visa – What You Need
Switching to Work Visas:
The new rules also affect how students transition to work visas after their studies.
- Students generally cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa until they have completed their course.
- PhD students can switch earlier, provided they have completed at least 24 months of study.
To switch into the Skilled Worker route, you must:
- Have a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
- Meet the minimum salary requirement, which as of 2026 is £26,200 per year or the applicable “going rate” for your occupation, whichever is higher.
- Meet English language requirements at B1 CEFR level.
Can Dependants Extend Their Visas?
Yes. Dependants can still extend their visas, depending on when their initial leave was granted.
- Dependants granted permission:
They can extend under the previous rules, even if applying for an extension. - Dependants under the new rules:
They can extend if the main applicant remains eligible to bring dependants (for example, if they’re on a research programme or government sponsorship).
Dependants’ Rights in UK:
Dependants on a Student visa generally have the following rights:
Work:
- Partners can work full-time or part-time in most roles.
- They cannot work as professional sportspersons or coaches, or as doctors or dentists in training under certain visa conditions.
- Self-employment is usually not allowed.
Study:
- Dependants can study in the UK without needing a separate Student visa, as long as their dependant visa remains valid.
Healthcare:
- Dependants can use NHS services through payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Restrictions include:
- No access to public funds such as Universal Credit or housing benefits.
- Travel during pending visa applications can risk refusal or delays.
- A dependant’s visa remains tied to the main applicant’s visa status.
Benefits:
- Right to Live in the UK
Dependents can legally live in the UK for the duration of the student’s course. - Work Opportunities
Spouses or partners on a dependent visa can usually work full-time in most jobs, providing financial flexibility for the family. - Access to Healthcare
Dependents who pay the Immigration Health Surcharge can access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). - Children’s Education
Dependent children can attend UK state-funded (public) schools, which can save significant education costs. - Pathway to Settlement
Time spent in the UK as a dependent can count towards eligibility for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) if switching to other visa categories later. - Accompanying the Student
Families can stay together during the student’s studies, reducing the emotional strain of long separations. - Freedom of Travel
Dependents can travel in and out of the UK freely while their visa is valid.
What Happens if the Student Drops Out?
If the main student visa holder withdraws from their course, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will typically curtail their visa, usually allowing 60 days to leave the UK or switch to another visa.
Because the dependant’s visa is tied to the main applicant, their visa will also be curtailed. Dependants must either:
- Leave the UK, or
- Apply for another visa category, such as a Skilled Worker visa, if eligible.
Can Dependants Switch to Work Visas?
Dependants can switch from a Student Dependant visa to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK if they:
- Have a qualifying job offer from a licensed sponsor.
- Meet salary and English requirements.
However, parents of child Student visa holders cannot switch to the Skilled Worker visa from within the UK; they generally need to leave the UK and apply from abroad.
Example Case:
Ali, a PhD student from Pakistan, started a four-year research programme. Because he began, he can still bring his wife and child under the old rules. After completing 24 months of his PhD, Ali may apply for a Skilled Worker visa if he secures an eligible job. His family can then switch to dependant visas under his new visa category.
Need Professional Advice?
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For personalised guidance, seek advice from a qualified UK immigration adviser or solicitor.
At Spouse Visa Lawyers, we specialise in UK immigration and can help you navigate these new rules. Book a consultation here →
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who qualifies as a dependent of a UK student?
Eligible dependents include your spouse or partner and children under 18. Parents, siblings, or other relatives cannot come as dependents.
What are the financial requirements for dependents?
You must show funds of £845 per month (outside London) or £1,020 per month (in London) for each dependent, for up to 9 months, in addition to your own maintenance funds.
Can all UK student visa holders bring dependents?
No. As of recent rules, only postgraduate students enrolled in research-based programs (e.g. PhD, research master’s) can bring dependents. Taught master’s and undergraduate students generally cannot bring dependents.