The United Kingdom has long been one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking high-quality education and a multicultural environment. Alongside the benefits of pursuing higher education in the UK, many students also wish to bring their family members with them. To facilitate this, the UK government offers a visa route known as the “Student Dependant Visa.” This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the fees associated with the UK student dependant visa, as well as a general overview of the student visa application process, eligibility criteria, and related considerations.
Who Can Apply as a Student Dependant?
Not all international students are entitled to bring dependants to the UK. To be eligible to sponsor dependants, a student must be:
- Studying a postgraduate course that is full-time and at least 9 months long at a UK higher education provider;
- Sponsored by a government and enrolled in a course that is at least 6 months long;
- A Doctorate Extension Scheme student.
The dependants that can be sponsored include:
- A spouse or civil partner;
- An unmarried partner (if you’ve been living together for at least 2 years);
- Children under the age of 18 at the time of application.
Understanding the Student Dependant Visa Fee
As of 2025, the cost of applying for a UK student dependant visa is £490 per applicant. This fee is the same regardless of whether the dependant is applying from outside or within the UK. However, it’s important to note that this is the application fee alone and does not include other mandatory expenses such as the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Applicants should also be prepared for the following potential additional costs:
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This is a mandatory payment made during the visa application process. As of 2025, the IHS for each dependant is £776 per year of the visa’s duration.
- Biometric Enrolment: Some applicants may need to pay a small fee (usually around £19.20) to enrol biometric information.
- Priority or Super Priority Services: Optional services that can expedite the processing time at an additional cost, ranging from £250 to £1000 depending on the speed and service location.
Example Fee Breakdown
Let’s consider an example: A student studying a 2-year postgraduate course in the UK wants to bring their spouse and one child. The fee breakdown would be:
- Visa Application Fee: £490 x 2 = £980
- IHS: £776 x 2 dependants x 2 years = £3,104
- Total: £980 + £3,104 = £4,084 (excluding any optional service costs)
Financial Requirements for Dependant Applicants
Along with paying the visa fees, applicants must meet financial requirements set by the UK Home Office. These requirements are in place to ensure the main student and their dependants have sufficient funds to support themselves without recourse to public funds during their stay in the UK.
As of the current guidelines:
- £845 per month (up to 9 months) for each dependant if the student is studying in London;
- £680 per month (up to 9 months) for each dependant if studying outside London.
These amounts must be held in the bank account(s) of the student or dependant for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting the student visa application.
Application Process for Student Dependant Visa
The process for applying for a dependant visa is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps and submit all required documentation. The application can be made online either at the same time as the main student visa application or separately at a later date.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Complete the online visa application form specific to dependants.
- Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Book and attend a biometric appointment.
- Submit required documentation, including:
- Proof of relationship to the main student (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate);
- Financial evidence demonstrating the required funds are available;
- Copy of the main student’s Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS);
- Valid passport and other identity documents.
- Await a decision (standard processing is usually within 3-8 weeks, depending on the location).
Student Visa Types and Their Impact on Dependant Eligibility
Different student visa types determine whether you can bring dependants to the UK. For example:
- Short-term Study Visa: This does not allow for dependants.
- Student Visa (formerly Tier 4): Allows dependants under the conditions outlined earlier.
- Doctorate Extension Scheme: Permits dependants if they already hold visas as dependants of the student.
Therefore, it’s important to understand which student visa type you are applying for to assess whether you are eligible to bring dependants with you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications are delayed or rejected due to common errors, including:
- Insufficient financial documentation or incorrect financial calculations.
- Lack of proper proof of relationship.
- Failing to enrol for biometrics in time.
- Using expired or invalid documents.
To avoid these pitfalls, it’s highly recommended to review the UK Home Office guidance and, if needed, consult a qualified immigration advisor.
Visa Duration and Extension
Student dependant visas are typically granted in line with the length of the main student’s visa. If the student extends their visa, their dependants must also apply for extensions. The extension process involves similar steps and fees as the initial application.
Work Rights and Limitations for Dependants
One of the key advantages of the UK student dependant visa is that it grants work rights to adult dependants. Spouses or partners can generally work full-time in any occupation except as a sportsperson or sports coach. However, children under 18 are expected to attend school and are not permitted to work full-time.
Implications for Settlement and Long-Term Stay
Time spent in the UK under a student or student dependant visa does not automatically count toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) unless transitioning to eligible visa categories (e.g., Skilled Worker visa). However, it can serve as a foundation for future visa routes and eventually lead to settlement through work or family pathways.
Changes and Updates to Visa Policy
The UK immigration system is subject to frequent updates. For example, in recent years, the government has reviewed policies to restrict or limit the eligibility of certain dependants, particularly to prevent misuse of the dependant route. Students and their families must stay updated by referring to the official UK government website or seeking professional advice.
Conclusion
Applying for a UK student dependant visa involves more than just paying the application fee. While the base fee is £490 per dependant, the true cost includes the Immigration Health Surcharge and evidence of sufficient financial maintenance. It is essential to understand who qualifies as a dependant, what student visa requirements apply, and the correct process for submission to avoid delays or refusals.
The UK remains a welcoming destination for international students and their families, but careful planning and understanding of the visa landscape are crucial. By adhering to the correct process and being aware of the costs and conditions, students can enjoy a successful academic journey in the UK with their loved ones by their side.
