Studying in the UK is a dream for many international students. But for those with families, an important question arises: “Can I bring my spouse and children with me while I study in the UK?” The answer depends on the type of course you are studying and the latest UK Home Office rules.
In this blog, we’ll explain who qualifies for a dependent visa, the benefits, and the new rules for 2025.
Who Counts as a “Dependent” in the UK?
Dependents are usually:
- Your husband, wife, or civil partner
- Unmarried partner (if you’ve lived together for at least 2 years)
- Your children under 18 years old (including those born in the UK during your stay)
Who Can Bring Dependents in 2025?
According to the updated UK immigration rules (effective from January 2024 onwards):
âś… You CAN bring your dependents if you are:
- Studying a PhD or other doctorate-level qualification
- Studying a research-based postgraduate course (Master’s by research or PhD)
- Sponsored by a government scholarship (sometimes exceptions apply)
❌ You CANNOT bring dependents if you are:
- Studying a taught Master’s degree (coursework-based)
- Studying an Undergraduate / Bachelor’s degree
- Enrolled in a short course, diploma, or foundation program
👉 In short: Only postgraduate research students (PhD, doctorate, research master’s) can bring their family with them.
Financial Requirements for Dependents
When applying for a UK Student Dependent Visa, you must show proof of funds:
- For your spouse/partner: ÂŁ680 per month (for up to 9 months)
- For each child: ÂŁ680 per month (for up to 9 months)
This is in addition to the maintenance funds you must show for yourself as a student.
Benefits of a UK Dependent Visa
- Work opportunities – Your spouse/partner can usually work full-time in the UK (except as a doctor/dentist in training or a professional sportsperson).
- Education for children – Dependent children can attend UK schools for free (state-funded).
- Healthcare – Dependents get access to the UK’s NHS healthcare system (after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge).
- Family togetherness – You don’t have to stay away from your family during your studies.
How to Apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa
Dependents must apply online from outside the UK.
They will need:
- Passport & documents proving relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) or visa details
- Proof of funds
- TB test results (for some countries)
Each dependent must also pay:
- Visa application fee (~ÂŁ490)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (ÂŁ776 per year per person)
Final Thoughts
Bringing your family with you while studying in the UK can be life-changing — but it’s not available to everyone. With the 2025 UK rules, only research-based postgraduate students (PhD/Doctorate/MRes) can bring dependents.
If you’re planning to study a Bachelor’s or Master’s, you’ll need to go alone. But if you’re aiming for a PhD or research program, your spouse and children can join you, enjoy the UK lifestyle, and even work or study alongside you.
