The United Kingdom has long been a popular destination for international students, thanks to its world-renowned universities, rich cultural heritage, and opportunities for academic and personal growth. However, for many international students, studying abroad also involves bringing their family members—spouses, partners, or children—with them. If you’re considering studying in the UK and plan to bring dependents, it’s crucial to understand the financial requirements involved. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has set specific guidelines for student visa dependents to ensure they are financially supported throughout their stay.

This article provides an in-depth overview of the financial requirements for dependents of international students on a UK Student Visa, covering who qualifies as a dependent, how much money is required, acceptable forms of financial evidence, and key considerations for applicants.

Who Is Considered a Dependent?

Under the UK Student Visa system, you may bring dependents to the UK if you are:

• A full-time student on a postgraduate level course (RQF level 7 or above) that lasts 9 months or longer.
  
  

• A government-sponsored student on a course longer than 6 months.
  
  

Eligible dependents include:

1. Your spouse or civil partner
   
   

2. Your unmarried partner (must have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years)
   
   

3. Your children under 18 years of age
   
   

Note: Parents, siblings, or extended family members do not qualify as dependents under the Student Visa route.

Financial Requirements Overview

To bring dependents with you, you must show that you have sufficient funds to support them in addition to yourself. These funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and the end of the 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you apply for the visa.

The required amount depends on where you’ll be studying in the UK:

• £845 per month (for up to 9 months) for each dependent if you are studying in London
  
  

• £680 per month (for up to 9 months) for each dependent if you are studying outside London
  
  

These funds are in addition to the money required for your own maintenance as a student, which is:

• £1,334 per month (up to 9 months) if studying in London
  
  

• £1,023 per month (up to 9 months) if studying outside London
  
  

Let’s break this down with an example.

Example: You and Your Spouse Studying in London

If your course is in London and lasts 9 months or more, and you’re bringing your spouse as a dependent:

• You need: £1,334 × 9 months = £12,006 (for yourself)
  
  

• Your dependent needs: £845 × 9 months = £7,605
  
  

• Total funds required = £19,611
  
  

If you’re also bringing one child:

• Additional £845 × 9 = £7,605
  
  

• Total with spouse and child = £27,216
  
  

These figures increase if the course duration exceeds 9 months, as the monthly amount is multiplied accordingly.

What Counts as “Studying in London”?

London is defined by UKVI as the area covered by the Greater London Authority. If your institution’s main study site is within this boundary, the London maintenance rates apply. It’s essential to check your university’s postcode to confirm whether it falls within this area.

Acceptable Financial Evidence

You must prove that you and your dependents have access to the required funds. Acceptable forms of evidence include:

1. Personal bank or building society statements (in your or your dependent’s name)
   
   

2. Joint accounts, as long as the account holder’s name(s) are clearly shown
   
   

3. Certificates of deposit that meet UKVI’s requirements
   
   

4. Student loans or official financial sponsorship letters (for the main applicant)
   
   

Note: Funds must be in cash (i.e., readily available). Assets such as stocks, bonds, cryptocurrency, or property are not acceptable.

Exemptions from the Financial Requirement

Some applicants may be exempt from showing maintenance funds for dependents if:

• You or your dependent has already been living in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months before the date of your application.
  
  

• You are applying for a visa extension while already in the UK and meet the financial requirement through previous residency.
  
  

However, you must check if these exemptions apply in your specific circumstances before assuming you are eligible.

Special Considerations for Children

Age and Education

• Children must be under 18 years of age when they apply.
  
  

• You may need to show evidence of schooling arrangements, particularly for older children.
  
  

• You must also confirm that adequate accommodation and care arrangements are in place.
  
  

Born in the UK

If your child was born in the UK during your current visa stay, they won’t automatically become a British citizen. However, you may apply to regularize their stay. While there is no immediate need for a visa if they are not traveling, you must apply for a dependent visa if they leave the country and want to return.

Accommodation and Cost of Living

Although UKVI doesn’t require you to submit proof of accommodation arrangements as part of the financial evidence, it’s wise to plan your living arrangements ahead of time. Renting in London is significantly more expensive than in other parts of the UK. Keep this in mind when budgeting beyond the initial visa requirement.

Some universities provide family accommodation on campus, but availability is limited. Private housing is another option, though it may come with additional upfront costs like a deposit and agency fees.

Health Surcharge (IHS)

In addition to maintenance funds, each dependent must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. As of 2024, the IHS rate is:

• £776 per year for students and their dependents
  
  

This surcharge grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), covering most healthcare services during your stay.

Working Rights for Dependents

While your dependents are not required to show financial independence beyond the initial visa application, it’s worth noting their rights once in the UK:

• Spouses or partners may work full-time if the student is enrolled in a postgraduate level course (9 months or longer) at a higher education provider.
  
  

• Children may attend school and are eligible for public education.
  
  

This can help alleviate the financial pressure on the student, though it should not be relied upon for the visa application.

Applying for a Dependent Visa

Dependents can apply at the same time as the main student visa application or later. Each dependent must:

• Complete a separate visa application
  
  

• Pay the visa fee (currently £490 per person)
  
  

• Provide biometric information
  
  

• Submit supporting documents
  
  

They must also provide evidence of their relationship to the main applicant, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.

Final Tips

• Double-check amounts: Ensure you’re calculating based on where you’re studying and how many months your course lasts.
  
  

• Keep funds in the account continuously for at least 28 days before applying.
  
  

• Plan ahead for accommodation and schooling (if applicable).
  
  

• Pay IHS and visa fees for each dependent.
  
  

• Use official documentation: Keep translations ready for any non-English documents.
  
  

Conclusion

Bringing dependents on a UK Student Visa can be a rewarding experience, but it requires thorough preparation—especially in terms of finances. The UK Home Office wants to ensure that all dependents are fully supported during their time in the UK without the need for public funds. By understanding and meeting the financial requirements, you can ensure a smoother visa process and focus on making the most of your time studying and living in the UK with your loved ones.

Always consult the official UK government immigration website or an immigration adviser for the most up-to-date information, as policies and financial thresholds may change.