Student dependants — current eligibility
Rules governing when partners and children can accompany an international student to the UK, following 2024 policy updates.
Who this pathway suits
Postgraduate research students and sponsored scholars wanting their family in the UK.
Eligibility at a glance
- Enrolled in a PhD, doctoral qualification, or research-based higher degree
- OR recipient of government sponsorship for a course longer than 6 months
- Demonstrate sufficient maintenance funds for each dependant
How the process works
- Submit dependant application linked to student's CAS and visa
- Upload relationship proof and finances
Documents you will typically need
- Marriage certificate, birth certificates, 28-day financial evidence
What to keep in mind
Taught master's students are no longer permitted to bring dependants under standard rules.
Official source: GOV.UK — Student visa family members. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Student dependants — current eligibility
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Institutional Legal Services & Representation
Comparable Pathways Across Other Destinations
Related Category Pathways
Student visa
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
Child Student visa
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
Graduate visa
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
Short-term study visa
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.

